Unthinkable Laughter

Unthinkable Laughter explores innovative approaches to anti-racist education by blending political insights, critical analyses of African American “race comics,” and culturally relevant pedagogies for teacher education and beyond. Does anti-racist education need to rely so heavily on feelings of anxiety, anger, or guilt? Can comedy, and more specifically, African American "race comics," help us rethink our approach to anti-racist education? At a time when critical race theory is under attack, the need for new approaches to anti-racist education is urgent. Unthinkable Laughter addresses this need, highlighting the power of humour and race comedy as valuable alternative strategies. Drawing on her experiences in politics – as a former member of Provincial Parliament in Ontario, anti-racism critic for the province, and chair of Ontario’s first-ever Black Caucus – Laura Mae Lindo offers a fresh perspective on rethinking anti-racism work in educational settings. The book applies critical race theory and culturally relevant pedagogies to Canadian experiences in education and politics, addressing a significant representational gap that often fosters the misleading belief that racism in education is a problem unique to the United States. By introducing this theoretical framework to Canadian contexts, Lindo offers a more inclusive, global perspective on both critical race theory and culturally relevant pedagogies in education. Ultimately, Unthinkable Laughter calls for a shift in how we approach anti-racist education, urging the exploration of humour and race comedy as powerful and effective alternative strategies.