Reflections on Black Identity in the South

The experiences of being a Black comedian on a college tour through the southern United States revealed the complex intersection of race and safety. The speaker describes moments of apprehension when encountering neon crosses symbolizing a painful historical legacy. They also recount performing at Christian schools where comedians were expected to navigate strict limits on their content, highlighting the challenges of comedy in deeply conservative environments. This blend of fear and comedy reflects the continuous struggle for Black individuals to assert their identity in spaces where they often feel unwelcome.