'Faith & Meaning: Chicago's Irish Heritage' on exhibit at Westmont library

You don't have to be Irish to celebrate St. Patrick's Day in Chicago; because for Chicagoans, St. Patrick's Day carries the meaningful symbolism that winter is over.

That's why we wear green on that special day. In honor of spring and St. Patrick's Day, area artist Peter Hagerty brings his latest exhibit - "Faith & Meaning: Chicago's Irish Heritage" to the Westmont Public Library.

From their start as unnamed labors' to their decades-long influence on politics - the Irish have impacted the character of Chicago. Like all immigrant groups, the Irish came here hoping for a better life; all they asked was for an opportunity to work and feed their families. The Irish brought with them religious faith and cultural traditions which are now considered commonplace.

In this inspiring exhibit, Hagerty touches on some important areas that help define what it means to be Chicago-Irish.

The exhibit runs daily from March 3 to May 1.

Visit westmontlibrary.org.

To learn more about the artist Peter Hagerty, visit peterhagerty.com.