How Do Indigenous People Use Humor For Survival

The article “How Indigenous peoples use humor for survival“, by Devory Jacobs, explores the ways Indigenous peoples use humor to overcome trauma and adversity. Humor can be a powerful resistance against oppression and colonization. Layne Miow says “If you don’t laugh, you’re going to cry”. This quote speaks to the idea that humor can serve as a coping mechanism in face of adversity. In addition, laughter can provide perspective and help Indigenous peoples get through difficult circumstances. Furthermore, humor can be a way for Indigenous communities to resist colonization and re-write their own story. By laughing in the face of oppression and colonization, Indigenous peoples cam assert their dominance and influence their own strength and resilience. Humor can be a powerful tool for healing and emotional actions, as it allows Indigenous peoples to

For example, Stephanie Pangowish, an Anishinabe Comedian talked on a Ted Talk about how her father used humor to heal after seeing his siblings getting kidnapped by the Indian agents. To make joy and laughter out of the situation, he simply said “they were too slow”. By using humor to address difficult experiences, Indigenous peoples can both acknowledge their pain and find joy within their culture. Humor can provide a sense of relief, allowing people to move forwards from traumatic experiences with a sense of healing and hope. Humor can be a powerful tool for building and strengthening communities. The article “How Indigenous peoples use humor for survival” highlights how Indigenous peoples have used humor for generations to cope with the struggles they have faced. Despite being faced with adversity and oppression, Indigenous communities have managed to find humor and joy in their daily lives through comedy. “By turning their struggles into comedy”, they are able to connect with others, build bonds and create a sense of community that is resilient and