The show started with side-splitting jokes about naive tourists, government tribal clothing, drunken escapades, Native discipline and reservation life. The performance brought the crowd to tears of laughter.
The truth in their comedy, many have found, stretches across tribes and nations. Junes and Tsosie are recovering alcoholics who have defeated drugs and use those experiences to warn Natives and non-Natives alike through their use of Native humor.
"We got hired because of that. For wellness conferences and drug-free events, they wanted us mainly for our message as well as our comedy," Tsosie said. "Being someone that is a warrior against alcohol and drugs, it feels really good to be recognized for being a positive role model."
I think the term "warrior" is aptly applied here. Drug and alcohol addiction is one of the most horrific struggles any one person can over come. It's a constant battle.
ReplyDeleteUntil you've walked a mile in their shoes, don't judge.
Anonymouse
The article calls James and Ernie "warriors of comedy," not "warriors against substance abuse." I judge that people who tell jokes aren't what we usually think of as warriors.
ReplyDeleteI've battled on such issues as Native stereotypes and mascots, media violence, and Indian gaming, but I wouldn't call myself a "warrior" on these issues. To do so would trivialize the efforts of real warriors--e.g., soldiers.
I thought you were responding to this comment by Mr. Tsosie, "Being someone that is a warrior against alcohol and drugs, it feels really good to be recognized for being a positive role model." and then there's this "Funny business aside, James Junes and Ernie Tsosie III are actually all about communicating their message: to live a healthy lifestyle, live alcohol- and drug-free, and say no to domestic violence".
ReplyDeleteIt's sounds like they are using their own battle with drugs and alcohol to send a message thru their comedy.
The word warrior does not always mean someone who has engage in combat, it can also mean one who is engaged aggressively or energetically in an activity, cause, or conflict.
I think that is the message they are trying to convey here and I agree 100% with that message. Drug and alcohol addiction is a daily battle that you deal with for the rest of your life.
Anonymouse
I was responding to both mentions of "warrior," but especially the headline.
ReplyDeleteI agree with James and Ernie's message too. I've had two girlfriends who were alcoholics.
But I still think the word "warrior" is overused. Even if they used it appropriately here, I'd say it's overused in general.
Rob
Warrior for Native comics