INMATE: I did look it up

To Ms. Holland, M.S., according to Webster’s College Dictionary, I didn’t have an Oxford handy, “inmate… 1. a person who is confined in a prison, hospital, etc.” Mr. Murphy wasn’t clear as to what type of facilities are currently located in his residential area. He stated several times they were “mental hospitals,” but I’m fairly certain they are neither prison nor hospital. I wouldn’t think city or county codes would allow a prison or a hospital in a residential area. If that is occurring, that is definitely a serious separate issue.

Mr. Murphy’s description of a “group of inmates…” in a neighbor’s front yard doesn’t make sense if the above definition of “inmate” is applied. They wouldn’t be able to leave the premises. Is it possible they are some type of adult care facilities where individuals aren’t confined and are able to come and go as they please? These individuals wouldn’t be called prisoners or inmates, I believe they would be called “patients” or “residents” — “patient…1. a person who is under medical care or treatment.” “resident… 1. a person who resides in a place.”

Ms. Holland, why is “inmate” more politically correct than “prisoner?” I for one don’t give a darn about being politically correct! As you stated, your dictionary says the word “prisoner” means any person currently in prison. Individuals in county jail are called “inmates” — they aren’t in prison. So Carol Parr’s letter is correct. She is neither outdated nor politically incorrect. Who died and left you “queen of political correctness?”

Not all persons are “person first,” nor do they all want to be addressed as such and not everyone deserves my respect.

LAGONDA McDONALD, S.B.

Coeur d’Alene