People are careful not to use the “N” word for African Americans or the “W” word for Italians or the “S” word for people of Hispanic and Italian backgrounds or the “W-back” term for people of Mexican heritage. So why do they feel it’s natural and funny to refer to an Irish person with the “P” word? “Paddy” (also “Patty”) is just as much a racial slur. It’s a British term used historically to put the Irish in their place. Thus the “Paddy Wagon,” as though most criminals the British police picked up were Irish. The word comes from “St. Patrick” or the common Irish name “Padraig” (also spelled “Patty”) but is far more than a simple name on the tongues of a prejudiced person.
The term is often used in fun or as a term of endearment. And the Irish will often call each other that–just like Blacks call each other “N” among themselves. But to use it indiscriminately, especially among people you don’t know, is insensitive at best and, at worst, inflammatory.
Next year, remember to wish everyone a Happy ST. PATRICK’SD Day.