Cisginger is the term that is used to describe individuals who are both cisgender and have red hair. Cisgender refers to those individuals whose gender identity matches their biological sex. Red hair, on the other hand, is a genetic trait that is determined by the presence of the MC1R gene.
Comedy has long been an important part of human culture, and it often involves making fun of one's own or someone else's physical characteristics, including hair color. However, the use of ethnicity, race, sexuality, and gender as punchlines in comedy has become much more controversial in recent years, and rightfully so. But where does being a cisginger fit into all of this?
Historically, redheads have been subjected to cruel and derogatory stereotypes. In the Western world, redheaded women were thought to be witches and harlots, while men were associated with negative traits like impulsive behavior and quick tempers. Therefore, using a person's red hair as a comedic prop to shore up tired tropes can be problematic.
However, in contemporary comedy, many cisgingers have taken ownership of their cultural identity and made it part of their comic persona. Some of these comedians include Matt Kirshen, Gilda Wabbit, and Mike Lawrence, who have all incorporated their red hair features in their comedic acts. They poke fun at themselves and other redhead physiology such as sensitivity to pain and anesthesia and the myth that redheads are going extinct. These comedians have reclaimed their identity, shedding light on the prejudices they face, and using humor to disarm them.
On the other side of the spectrum, some people use the "ginger" stereotype to justify discriminatory behavior. They may harass, bully or openly discriminate against individuals with red hair. Such conduct is unacceptable, and no one should be subjected to derogatory attitudes and treatment based on how they look.
In conclusion, as with most aspects of comedy, using the term "cisginger" in comic material can be tricky and may elicit varying reactions from different people. However, when employed by comedians who take ownership of their cultural identity and employ humor to destigmatize their features, it can, at least, promote self-love and positive body image for people with red hair. Ultimately, as long as it is done with sensitivity towards those concerned and respect for human dignity, a laughing ginger might even become an iconoclastic hit.