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Wendy Beckman's avatar

Hi Rajiv, I wondered also about Smith's initial reaction. He sure seemed to be laughing until Mama showed him that his reaction was wrong.

As I read your post, I kept thinking of Martin Niemöller. Are comedians the canaries in the coal mine or our last line of defense?

On a side note, I was amazed that Rock didn't do anything to defend himself. He had his arms behind him.

As the dust settles, I am still in shock. What have we come to?

Bravo, Rajiv.

Wendy B.

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Karen Klei Schlosser's avatar

As always, thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts! I hope America finds its way. 99.99% of people commenting on this atrocity (like me, for example) could never imagine the vulnerability and courage it takes to be a comedian. I have no idea where your profession will evolve to, but I agree comedians are critical in our society. We learn so much by our mind being open through observations and viewpoints articulated through humor. I am sure it taps into a different physical part of our brains that engage and therefore allows for new connections. Growth. Empathy. Understanding. Wonder. Support.

We’re here for you, whatever help could look like. No idea what that could be. We need you on stage. Praying for your physical, emotional and psychological safety as you process all of this and your amazing profession, undoubtedly, moves forward.

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