Tackling Racism: Are comedy and uploading racist incidents the way to go?

Most people enjoy comedy, whether it's movies, TV shows or stand up. Comedy makes us laugh, but can it also be used to highlight social and cultural issues?  Of course it can, "Comedy is defiance. It's a snort of contempt in the face of fear and anxiety. And it's the laughter that allows hope to creep back on the inhale." ~ Will Durst

Over the years many comedians have brought up the issue of racism in their shows but while they may be using humour, it does make the audience realise that racist remarks and attitudes are silly and sound ridiculous.

 

 



Sometimes talks and lectures about racism do not appeal to the masses, they would rather be entertained than sit through someone giving them facts and figures. Comedy, stand up in particular, has the ability to entertain people as well as give them something meaningful to think about, so could comedy possibly be the best way forward in tackling racism?

Another possible way of tacking racism comes in the form of technology. Today the majority of people have smartphones with camera's and have access to the internet. People are able to video incidents and upload them to the internet for all the world to see. With social networking tools at our disposal these video's can end up being seen by millions. Not only does this help the victim(s) of any racist incident as there is visual evidence of the incident if they decide to pursue legal matters, but also highlights how uncomfortable and often cringe worthy these type of incidents can be. Is this possibly the new way to name and shame racists?

Is it possible that by exposing these types of hate crimes online will embarrass people into behaving better? Will it make others just see how vile these kind of incidents are and help make a change?



B~