Q: I am an Irish American. I originally from one of the big Irish American cities where my people have been since the famine. I married a non-caucasian immigrant and we do loads of stuff with his culture. So now my daughter is interested in her Irish American side and in celebrating St Pats day. We have gone over the history of Irish Americans and St Patrick in previous years. Do you have any better ideas? and please don't say "give her a guiness"- she's a kid. :) Jk whatever- I have explained many, many times that we are not culturally "Irish". But guess what, I still look Irish,I have been pegged as Irish across the globe in many countries. My ancestors are Irish American they have their own history that does not include your prime minister. I am happy for you to have your contemporary Irish history but try and stop centering yourself in the middle of my subculture. It really isn't about contemporary Ireland, the IRA, Mary Mcaleese or Bertie Ahern. It is more about the Kennedys and "paddy wagons" and the ancient Ireland we came from. I have also told her that St Pat wasn't Irish. But we still love him. incidently, because we recognize our Irish heritage does not mean that is our focus. We are totally American but America, unlike Ireland, is made up mostly of immigrants. So occasional study or a once a year party does not mean we wish to be living in Ireland. I know it is St Paddys now, I have been corrected twice by Irish Nationals and I will try never to get it wrong again. Visiting Ireland? I have thought about it but an Irishman (born and raised in Ireland) told my husband that in some areas they don't like dark skinned people. They said he might be in danger. Now he is a little nervous to go, but I think we will go anyway. There are dangerous areas in every country.
A: Well you can make corned beef and cabbage for dinner. Have irish soda bread for dessert. Learn about the shamrock/4 leaf clover symbolism, the story of St. Patrick. Play some irish music (fiddle/tin whistle/bagpipes) There's lots you can do. *Edit *Maybe you can introduce her to Irish Step Dancing. It is a lot of fun and many young girls enjoy it. It could be a great way for her to tap into her Irish heritage yet you don't necessarily have to be Irish to enjoy it. I have young cousins who love doing the step dancing and the Irish music that accompanies it. It could be a way to celebrate her Irish heritage all year round. You don't say what your husband's ethnic background is but wouldn't it be nice if she knew the traditional dances of both sides of her heritage. jk - you don't have to be Irish to wear some green today and celebrate St. Patricks day. I'm not but for 1 day a year I am an honorary Irish gal. Besides I'm catholic and it is still a saints day. And another thing - America is made up of immigrants. The nice thing is that we have incorporated traditions from all over the world but are still American. I mean we celebrate and recognize Chinese New Year, St. Patty's Day, Columbus Day, Cinco de Mayo, and many other traditions that began in other countries. I think it is wonderful.