Muslim Comedians Battle Stereotypes
May 2008
Stations, the following is
a news announcement. Suggested lead in 3, 2, 1…
(INTRO)
Terrorism, racial profiling
and U.S.-Middle East relations may not seem like laughing
matters. But wait until you meet the five hilarious
and insightful Muslim American comedians showcased in
the PBS special, Stand Up: Muslim American Comics
Come of Age, who use humor to take on stereotypes
about their religion and ethnicity.
Ahmed Ahmed, one of the featured
comedians, says comedy is one of the best ways to tackle
stereotypes and fear.
(AHMED)
WE ARE ALL TRYING TO BREAKTHROUGH
THE STEREOTYPES THAT OFTEN DEFINE US. AND PERSONALLY,
AS AN ACTOR AND COMEDIAN, I'M A LITTLE TIRED OF PLAYING
THESE SAME ROLES, SUCH AS "TERRORIST #4." SO, THE ONLY
WAY TO BREAK DOWN THOSE STEREOTYPES IS TO DO IT WITH
HUMOR, VERSUS BEING SERIOUS, BECAUSE PEOPLE WILL TAKE
US A LOT MORE SERIOUSLY IF WE CAN LAUGH AT OURSELVES.
(CLOSE)
STAND UP: Muslim American
Comics Come of Age airs nationally on PBS on Sunday,
May 11 (Check local listings). For more information,
visit www.pbs.org/crossroads.
###
|
|
