Humor, Sexual Assault, and Social Justice

 When discussing complex subjects, condolences and solemn voices are utilized as individuals navigate the sensitivity of the horrific topic. I, too, treat instances of sexual assault and rape with the highest sensitivity and care, although Myriam Gurba channels a different approach when aggressing her encounter of rape. She jokes, saying, “I wasn’t really dressed for rape:” when talking about the cheetah wedges she wore while chasing down her assaulter. These instances are so tragic and devastating, so why, ever, would we address them with comedy? I think the answer to this question is that if the comedy is perpetuating healing, it is healthy for victims of SA to express their tragedy through humorous coping. That being said, it is never appropriate for the perpetrator of SA to joke about it in any way, shape, or form or for those who have not experienced SA to joke about it. Doctor Jack Saul claims that “a survivor’s ability to exercise spontaneity is his sign” of healing and recovery. Humor can bring joy and light into arenas that are not historically funny and can even be intensely the opposite of funny, and hopefully help individuals in their recovery from acts of trauma or injustice. 

Comedy placed In severe issues of political activism can also promote awareness and help to draw attention to injustice and structures within the government that promotes injustice on certain minority groups. The strategic use of deviancy and whit can help promote a particular message or bring attention to ineffective systems that need restructuring. Humor is a way we can relate to one another and promote unity around a particular cause. Therefore, comedy’s effectiveness in social Justice can drive global change. 


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