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1. Native American Humor: A History of Resilience and Resistance

Humor, all Indians will agree, is the cement by which the coming Indian movement is held together.

Humor as survival. Native American humor has served as a vital tool for resilience, resistance, and cultural preservation throughout history. It's a way to cope with trauma, challenge stereotypes, and maintain a sense of identity in the face of adversity. This humor is not just about jokes; it's a deeply ingrained part of Native culture, used to teach, critique, and connect.

Teasing and social control. Before European contact, teasing was a common method of social control within tribes. Rather than publicly shaming individuals, humor was used to gently guide those who strayed from tribal norms. This approach fostered a sense of community and encouraged conformity without resorting to harsh punishments.

Contemporary relevance. Today, Native American humor continues to play a crucial role in addressing contemporary issues and promoting cultural pride. Comedians use their platforms to challenge stereotypes, raise awareness about social injustices, and celebrate the richness and diversity of Native cultures. It's a way to reclaim narratives and empower communities.

2. Early Erasure: Subjugation in Show Business and the Wild West

Damn Indians anyhow—they are a lazy, shiftless set of brutes—though they will draw [an audience].

Exploitation for entertainment. In the 1800s, Native Americans were often presented as sideshow attractions and performers in Wild West shows, subjugated for the entertainment of white audiences. These performances reinforced racist stereotypes and contributed to the erasure of Native cultures. Figures like P.T. Barnum and Buffalo Bill Cody profited from this exploitation.

Restricted freedom. Government policies restricted Native American freedom of movement, confining them to reservations and controlling their every action. This made it nearly impossible for Native people to participate in show business on their own terms. The Office of Indian Affairs (OIA) actively worked to prevent Natives from leaving reservations, fearing that a taste of freedom would make them unmanageable.

Forced participation. Some Natives joined Wild West shows as a means of escaping the oppressive reservation system and earning an income. However, they were often subjected to poor living conditions, inadequate medical care, and the indignity of reenacting their own subjugation for white audiences. Buffalo Bill Cody even resorted to offering Native Americans a choice: join the show or go to jail.

3. Vaudeville's Deceptions: Stereotypes and Forced Assimilation

What benefit has the Indian derived from Wild West shows? None but what are degrading, demoralizing, and degenerating.

Imposters and stereotypes. Vaudeville theaters often presented white performers in headdresses as "Native American" acts, perpetuating stereotypes and denying opportunities to actual Native performers. The few Native Americans who did appear in vaudeville were often students from boarding schools, showcased as "civilization success stories" to promote assimilation.

Forced assimilation. The government used boarding schools to forcibly indoctrinate Native children, stripping them of their languages, religions, and cultural identities. These schools were notorious for their cruelty, with students punished for speaking their native languages and subjected to physical and sexual abuse. The Carlisle Indian School, for example, had a graveyard on campus where more than two hundred students were buried.

Resistance through performance. Despite the oppressive conditions, some Native performers used their platform to challenge stereotypes and advocate for Native rights. Chauncey Yellow Robe, a graduate of the Carlisle Indian School, became a vocal critic of Wild West shows and helped organize the Society of American Indians to fight for Native rights.

4. The 1491s: Contemporary Comedy as Cultural Reclamation

We resonated and struck a nerve because we made fun of ourselves.

Smashing stereotypes. The 1491s, a five-man sketch comedy troupe, have gained a loyal following by making fun of themselves and challenging stereotypical images of Native Americans. Their comedy is contemporary, irreverent, and often self-deprecating, offering a fresh perspective on Native identity.

Contemporary comedy. The group consists of Sterlin Harjo, Thomas Ryan RedCorn, Migizi Pensoneau, Dallas Goldtooth, and Bobby Wilson, each bringing their unique talents and experiences to the table. They create videos, perform live shows, and engage with their audience on social media, using humor to address serious issues and promote cultural pride.

Contemporary Native American. By creating contemporary comedy, the 1491s smash stereotypes and offer a more nuanced and authentic representation of Native American life. Their work seeks to reverse the propaganda of a savage or overly peaceful Indian, showcasing the diversity, complexity, and humor of Native cultures.

5. Will Rogers: Cherokee Cowboy, Political Wit, and Complicated Legacy

I don’t make jokes. I just watch the government and report the facts.

Cherokee heritage. Will Rogers, a Cherokee comedian and actor, was one of the most famous personalities of the early 20th century. He used his platform to comment on political and social issues, often with a wry and folksy wit. Rogers's grandfather was murdered in a vengeance killing, and Rogers himself learned rope tricks from an enslaved person.

Political commentary. Rogers's humor was often directed at politicians and the wealthy, and he was known for his sharp observations about government corruption and social inequality. He was a vocal critic of the oil industry and a champion of the common man.

Complicated legacy. Despite his advocacy for Native rights, Rogers also held some problematic views, particularly regarding African Americans. He used racial slurs in his radio broadcasts and displayed a patronizing attitude toward Black people. His legacy is therefore complex and requires a critical examination of both his contributions and his shortcomings.

6. Breaking Barriers: Trailblazers in Comedy and Activism

I was raised among darkies… I was raised by them.

Early activism. Native Americans have been fighting against stereotypes and for accurate representation in media since the early days of the film industry. Groups like the Hollywood War Paint Club and individuals like Jim Thorpe advocated for Native actors to play Native roles and for more respectful portrayals.

Jackie Curtiss. Jackie Curtiss, a Mohawk comedian, broke barriers in vaudeville and nightclubs, facing discrimination and adversity throughout his career. He was orphaned at a young age and raised in the circus, eventually becoming a successful comedian and emcee.

Will Rogers Jr. Will Rogers Jr., son of the famous comedian, followed in his father's footsteps by entering politics and advocating for Native rights. He served in Congress and worked with organizations like the National Congress of American Indians to promote Native self-determination.

7. The Power of Representation: Inspiring Future Generations

I’m going to find a way to do this. I don’t know how I’m going to do it, but that’s what I’m gonna do.

Charlie Hill's influence. Charlie Hill, the first Native American comedian to appear on network television, inspired countless others to pursue their dreams. His success paved the way for future generations of Native comedians and actors.

Breaking stereotypes. Hill's comedy challenged stereotypes and offered a fresh perspective on Native American life. He used his platform to speak out against injustice and promote cultural pride.

Modern inspiration. Today, Native comedians like Sierra Teller Ornelas and Bobby Wilson are creating opportunities for others and mentoring young talent. They are working to ensure that Native voices are heard and that Native stories are told with authenticity and respect.

8. Modern Native Comedy: Finding Humor in Trauma and Identity

I’m an enrolled member of the Cowlitz Indian Tribe.

Contemporary voices. A new generation of Native comedians is emerging, using humor to address contemporary issues and explore their identities. They are finding innovative ways to connect with audiences and challenge preconceived notions about Native American life.

Trauma and healing. Many Native comedians draw on their personal experiences with trauma, addiction, and cultural loss to create comedy that is both funny and deeply moving. They use humor as a tool for healing and resilience.

Unique perspectives. Native comedians offer a unique perspective on American society, challenging dominant narratives and promoting understanding. They are reclaiming their stories and using humor to empower their communities.

9. The Ongoing Struggle: Challenging Stereotypes and Seeking Visibility

Natives aren’t even part of the conversation. Essentially, we’re Hollywood’s neglected children.

Lack of representation. Despite progress in recent years, Native Americans remain largely invisible in mainstream media. They are often excluded from conversations about diversity and face ongoing challenges in breaking into the entertainment industry.

Challenging stereotypes. Native comedians are working to challenge harmful stereotypes and promote more accurate and nuanced representations of Native American life. They are using their platforms to educate audiences and advocate for social justice.

Seeking visibility. Native comedians are actively seeking opportunities to showcase their talents and connect with wider audiences. They are creating their own platforms, collaborating with other artists, and pushing for greater representation in mainstream media.

10. The Importance of Community: Native Voices Telling Native Stories

Obviously First Nations and Native American peoples should be in charge of their own stories without the interference of non-Native interpretation.

Authenticity and self-representation. It is crucial that Native Americans are in charge of telling their own stories, without the interference of non-Native interpretation. This ensures that their voices are heard and that their experiences are represented with authenticity and respect.

Community support. Native comedians often find support and inspiration within their own communities. They draw on their cultural traditions, family histories, and personal experiences to create comedy that resonates with Native audiences.

Empowering future generations. By sharing their stories and challenging stereotypes, Native comedians are empowering future generations and creating a more inclusive and equitable world. They are demonstrating the power of humor to heal, connect, and inspire change.

Last updated: March 15, 2025