The problem has never been with the Irish when it comes to the negative stereotyping. The problem has been with the dominant Anglo American mainstream using "the drunk Irishman" stereotype as justification to discriminate against Irish immigrants.

There was good reason why there was a national outcry from Irish Americans when the newly elected Minnesota novelty governor, Jesse "The Body" Ventura, complained about St Paul streets (the Irish side of the river in the Twin Cities) being hard to navigate because they were built by drunk Irishmen, on Leno's show.

Old prejudices die hard, especially among all those American Protestants who insist upon wearing orange on St. Patrick's Day.

Odd no one seems to be interested in THAT St. Patrick's Day custom, isn't it.