Sept. 24, 2010 renowned comedian and TV personality Stephen Colbert, of Comedy Central’s ‘The Colbert Report’, appeared before a House Judiciary subcommittee to testify on immigration reform and the conditions of migrant workers.
Colbert was invited to testify by subcommittee Chairwoman Zoe Lofgren. His presence was almost immediately contested by Rep. John Conyers-D, who initially asked for Colbert to simply submit a statement and leave before the hearing started. This request was withdrawn after strong groans from the hearing’s audience, according to one ABC News account.
Last summer, Colbert was one of 16 people who participated in the UFW “Take Our Jobs” campaign, where he took the place of an immigrant worker on a farm for one day. His presence was a heated topic amongst both parties. Rep. Jason Chaffetz-R shared Conyers sentiments, alluding to the hearing as ‘fake’ according to a CBS News report. Others such as Nancy Pelosi-D welcomed Lofgren’s invitation to the Comedy Central host.
“It’s difficult to say why Congress invited Colbert to testify,” said political science junior Madison Niederhauser. “These people in mainstream media do use politics for comedic effect, but it does educate people. I think in Congress’ mind, if they got someone like Colbert to testify rather than some senator, they would get more viewers and therefore more notoriety for the issues.”
Madison Niederhauser reads articles over Colbert’s recent testimony
While the comedic forum of shows like Colbert’s serve as a launch pad for issues, they’re satire can be dangerous if people misinterpret it Niederhauser said. To watch clips from the hearing visit http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vwIL3Tr3N9Y
Lindsey
ReplyDeleteYou are doing a great job with the blog! Keep it up! ulie