Redheads

In The Independent today, an article about Redheaded women have the genes to conquer the pain barrier got me thinking.

Why is it that people laugh, almost automatically, at jokes about redheaded people - in much the same way they routinely laugh at fat people?

A year or so ago, I was at a conference at which invited delegates (health and other professionals) were consulted to identify the key issues that should be included in the Dept of Health White Paper, 'Choosing Health'. Obesity was an issue being talked about.

A video about obesity was shown. The first images were of an overweight mother and her daughter. Among the audience (of professionals, mind) a number of people laughed at what they saw and then, realising this was inappropriate, stifled themselves. Still, their initial reaction was telling.

But, back to redheads.

My sister, who is much more of redhead than I, was pleased when I sent her details of Red and Proud. She was teased, for many years, about having red hair. It was harmful.

I still feel uncertain, when watching TV with friends and a joke about redheads comes on, whether to laugh along, complain or ignore.

I don't think these jokes have the same impact as racism, sexism, or homophobia. After all, being joked about is not the same as being physically assaulted for being Black, a woman or lesbian or gay.

But, nonetheless, jokes about redheads feel insidious. A way of harming people's self-esteem and emotional well-being. The tales told about being a redhead on Red and Proud testify to this.