In the first part of our two-part conversation, former New Jersey Assemblywoman Joan

Quigley reflects on her upbringing in an Irish-American family in Jersey City, her early involvement in civic activism, and her groundbreaking career as a woman in Hudson County politics.

She shares personal stories about Irish identity, family history, and the political culture of mid-century Jersey City, including her role in the city’s first St. Patrick’s Day Parade and local grassroots organizing efforts.

Quigley also discusses how she entered politics through campaign work, eventually becoming one of the few women in leadership within the Hudson County Democratic organization. Throughout the conversation, she highlights the importance of relationships, resilience, humor, and mentorship in both politics and public service.

To hear the JOAN QUIGLEY PODCAST, PLEASE GO HERE.

Hosted by Stacy McCormack, Politics, Pubs, Parades, + the Parish is a series of interviews with people you most likely know - many of them in New Jersey politics - telling stories that seem to get better with age.

This is the first in a two-part series featuring Assemblywoman Quigley.

Please look for Part Two next Monday and look for other podcasts featuring other New Jersey political difference-makers in the coming weeks.