What Is COSCA?
COSCA is the acronym for the Council of Scottish Clans and
Associations. COSCA's primary purpose is to preserve and promote
the customs, traditions, and heritage of the Scottish people. We
strive to do this by educating the public about Scottish
history, literature, music, poetry, art, and culture.
With over 60,000 clan
members represented, COSCA serves as a clearing
house for clan activities throughout the US. While not a
governing or supervisory board for any organization, COSCA can
and does strive to bring the clans and associations together
through a variety of means. Our AGM is
held each July at the Grandfather
Mountain Highland Games
in Linville, NC. This is open to any clan representative;
whether or not their clan is hosting a tent at the games. Also, our
e-newsletter, "The Claymore" regularly
reports on items of
interest to the Scottish community, both here and abroad.
One of COSCA's key
services is
to assist people who wish to identify their Scottish clan.
Whether online or at one of the many highland games and festivals
throughout the country, COSCA representatives offer a wealth of extensive
research materials designed
specifically to facilitate this process. Visitor inquiry forms are
forwarded to the appropriate clan(s) so they may contact
the prospective member directly. This, in effect, allows COSCA to act as the
Clan's representative even if they aren't present at the games.
COSCA is also an active
participant in The Scottish Coalition; a collective of several
organizations united by a common purpose: namely to serve the
Scottish-American community through research, long-term planning
and information designed to promote our heritage. The Scottish Symposium is held annually where
Coalition representatives and key leaders within the Scottish community come together to
advance our unique identity. An
example of the effectiveness of this alliance was the recent
recognition of Tartan Day as an official national observance.
(Please see our Links page for a list of
Coalition members and their websites.)
So whether you're
interested in what COSCA can do for your clan, society or
association or whether you're an individual seeking to find out
more about your Scottish heritage, COSCA is here to help you. We
welcome you to our website and hope you will find it a helpful
resource. Visit often, and make sure to find the COSCA
representatives
at your next highland game. We look forward to meeting you!
