Michael Che's 'Civil-Rights Update' from his 2016 Netflix special resonates with contemporary issues of racism in America. He illustrates the historical context of racism affecting Black Americans since the arrival of Africans in North America. Che's humor shines through as he transitions from heavy topics to personal anecdotes, notably mentioning his brother, who is a cop. This approach helps diffuse audience tension while addressing a divisive political issue, allowing for reflection and laughter simultaneously.
Black Americans have faced constant racism and animosity since the first Africans were brought to North America by 17th-century Europeans. Progress has been excruciatingly slow ever since, and it seems only to be getting slower.
Che's bit is a very funny, insightful, expertly performed, and remarkably not preachy take on a weighty, distressing subject.
I like to start with race stuff because I feel like right now there's a lot of tension. Blacks and cops aren't getting along.
Doing a light joke after announcing a heavy premise is always smart, but Che's brother reference also defuses some objections that might get in the audience's way of enjoying a bit on a polarizing political issue.
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