The SDLP has once again announced its decision to boycott the St Patrick's Day celebrations at the White House, citing Donald Trump’s position on Gaza as the reason. It’s a bold gesture – or at least it would be if there were any real chance of it making an impact.
However, the idea that Donald Trump will be shaken by the absence of a political party from Northern Ireland is, to put it mildly, wishful thinking.
President Trump is not exactly known for his sensitivity to international criticism, especially from parties with limited influence on the global stage. This is the man who shrugged off protests from world leaders, environmentalists, and his own citizens without batting an eye.
The SDLP’s absence from a social gathering, even one as symbolic as the White House St Patrick's Day party, is unlikely to make it onto his radar.
This is not to say that the SDLP’s stand isn’t principled. It clearly is. Their decision reflects a genuine stance on human rights and international justice, and they deserve credit for maintaining their convictions. But in the grand scheme of international politics, it’s a move that’s about as impactful as boycotting the office Christmas party because you don’t like the boss. It’s a statement, certainly, but one that’s destined to go largely unnoticed.
The St Patrick's Day event at the White House is a long-standing tradition and a celebration of Irish-American relations. It is a diplomatic event with enough platitudes to make even the most hardened politician blush. It’s not exactly the forum for hard-hitting political protest. By not attending, the SDLP is removing themselves from the conversation altogether, which is hardly the best way to influence policy.
While Donald Trump is known to obsess over crowd size, he isn’t likely to lose sleep over a few empty seats. In fact, given his track record, he probably won’t notice. His focus will be on the applause, the photo ops, and the headlines that come with hosting Irish political leaders and American Irish luminaries. If the SDLP are hoping for a presidential change of heart, they’re likely to be disappointed.
Some critics, including the DUP, have dismissed the boycott as a “petulant stunt,” while others argue that it shows a lack of respect for the office of the President. In truth, it’s neither. It’s a symbolic gesture and a stand on principle. But in the cacophony of international diplomacy, symbolic gestures are easily drowned out.
While the SDLP’s absence has made headlines back home, in Washington, the show will go on. The shamrocks will be handed over, the toasts will be made, and Trump will bask in the spotlight, blissfully unaware of who’s missing. The SDLP’s protest, however noble, is likely to be remembered as the stand that nobody stood up to notice.
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English (United States) ·