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Gang rape jokes don’t go over well

Over the years I’ve learned that certain types of jokes are inappropriate for certain types situations. For example, gang rape jokes, while hilarious at Thanksgiving dinner, are somewhat frowned upon when you’re about to be the guest at a benefit for a women’s shelter. Like me, Sandra Bernhard realizes this now. Maybe.

Bernhard made the remarks last month during her one-woman show in Washington before Palin visited New York to campaign. The 53-year-old comedian said Palin would be “gang-raped by my big black brothers” during a diatribe in which she also criticized Palin for opposing abortion rights.

Rosie’s Place, a Boston shelter, announced Wednesday that Bernhard would not take part in its Oct. 16 luncheon, “Funny Women … Serious Business.”

Many women at the shelter have been victims of violence, said public relations director Leemarie Mosca.

“In light of our mission, we don’t think violence against women is a laughing matter,” she said.

Bernhard said her gang rape joke was taken out of context and you just had to be there, man.

She said the gang rape comment was part of a larger piece from her one-woman show about “women, racism, freedom and the extreme views of Gov. Sarah Palin.”

“In no way am I making any sort of joke about crimes against women — quite the contrary. I’m speaking out about someone who doesn’t do enough to protect women,” Bernhard said. “I think if you look at the real issues I’m addressing, my intent becomes clear. I am a die-hard advocate for women’s rights, and fully support the work of Rosie’s Place.”

Okay. I can see how joking about Sarah Palin being raped by “your big black brothers” is a commentary regarding her stance on women’s rights, but…. Wait, huh? No I can’t.

Bernhard upset about being cut from benefit [MSNBC]

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