Internet Cringes Watching Donald Trump Fail At Reading 'Irish Proverb'

Happy St. Paddy's Day!

And, just to be clear, it's "Paddy" not "Patty."

Patty is a girl's name. If you didn't know that, don't worry, the Irish are a very friendly people and they will forgive you.

Millions of Americans claim to be of Irish descent, and the US has a fantastic relationship with Ireland.

President Donald Trump, however, embarrassed the US a bit in relation to this when he met with Irish Prime Minister Enda Kenny and recited what he claimed to be an Irish proverb.

Trump said,

Always remember to forget the friends that proved untrue, but never forget to remember those that have stuck by you.

He added,

A lot of us know that, we know it well. It's a great phrase.

But Irish people on Twitter are very confused about this, as they've never heard this proverb...

...that might be because it's actually written by Nigerian poet, Albashir Adam Alhassan.

So yeah, what Trump said was neither Irish, nor a proverb.

This is why we can't have nice things.

Irish Prime Minister Enda Kenny also used the occasion as an opportunity to make an important point on immigration.

When waves of Irish people came to the US in the 19th century and the first half of the 20th century, some of whom were fleeing the miserable impact of the potato famine, they were often met with disdain and suspicion.

Sadly, not much has changed.

Many Americans continue to greet both immigrants and refugees with animosity instead of solidarity.

This is precisely why Kenny said,

There are millions out there who want to play their part for America — if you like, who want to make America great. You heard that before?

Kenny then spoke on the 50,000 Irish immigrants who are living in the US illegally, and who could be deported if Trump follows through with his promises to round up and kick out undocumented immigrants.

He added,

We would like this to be sorted. It would remove a burden of so many that they could now stand in the light and say, 'Now I'm free to contribute to America as I know I can.' That's what people want. All they want is the opportunity to be free.

So, as we celebrate St. Paddy's Day, let's remember the Irish people who came to America in search of a better life, and work toward being more welcoming to new groups of immigrants and refugees who want the same thing.

Citations: Trump's 'Irish proverb' confuses the internet on St Patrick's Day (The Guardian)