Rosie O'Donnell flees to Ireland for equality and safety
- Rosie O'Donnell relocated to Ireland with her daughter Dakota on January 15, 2017.
- She expressed that the move was motivated by concerns over safety and equal rights in the U.S.
- O'Donnell plans to return to America when it is safe for all citizens to have equal rights.
In January 2017, Rosie O'Donnell confirmed her departure from the United States, relocating to Ireland with her adopted daughter, Dakota. This decision came just five days before Donald Trump took office as the 47th President of the U.S., a move she described as necessary for her family's well-being. O'Donnell, who has been a vocal critic of Trump, indicated that she missed her friends and children living in the U.S. but felt compelled to prioritize safety and equal rights for all citizens. She mentioned the ongoing distress regarding the political landscape in America, which had become personally challenging for her. Rosie has shared her experiences adjusting to life in Dublin through social media, expressing her gratitude for the new beginnings. She has begun the process of acquiring Irish citizenship, given her heritage through her grandparents, signaling a significant commitment to her new home. Despite her happiness about their new life, she openly acknowledged the emotional toll of missing her other children, whom she shares with ex-wife Kelli Carpenter: Parker, Chelsea, Blake, and Viviene. O'Donnell's decision to move illustrates the impact of the political environment on personal choices. In her communications, Rosie emphasized her contentment with the community in Dublin, yet she remains hopeful for the possibility of returning to the U.S. if the political climate becomes more favorable. The timeline of her move corresponds with a period of significant political upheaval in the U.S., as she has been witnessing what she described as heartbreaking shifts in rights and freedoms under the Trump administration. O'Donnell's feud with Trump dates back to 2006, which further adds context to the depth of her feelings regarding the current political climate and her eventual emigration. Ultimately, her story highlights a larger issue: the struggles many face in feeling safe and accepted within their own countries. O'Donnell's move is emblematic of a broader response to political environments that provoke fears about personal safety and rights. Her experience is a stark reminder of how political situations can influence individual lives and decisions, leading to choices that, while difficult, are seen as necessary for safety and happiness.