Posted: Sun Apr 14 2002
New Black Comedian Forgets To Mention He's Black

With his in-your-face style and frequent use of obscenities, up-and-coming comedian Steve Henderson is used to controversy, but a recent performace at a comedy club in Kansas City may damage his career beyond repair.

The incident occurred Saturday evening at famed local comedy club The Funny Page. Henderson accidently completed his act without telling the shocked audience the funnier aspects of being African-American.

"I was on my way out of the building when I realized my mistake," said Henderson, "I tried to go back in and explain it to them, but I was refused entry by the manager."

Henry Garcia, owner and operator of The Funny Page, informed reporters of the club's policy regarding black comedians and ethnic and racial jokes, namely "they have to".

"We can't have black comedians telling jokes and anecdotes that do not involve being black," explained Garcia. "What's next: Hispanic comedians not talking about being hispanic or gay comedians not talking about being gay? I think my actions banning Henderson are totally justified."

So far the incident has earned Henderson banishment from 13 other comedy clubs and stern warning from the Black Comedian's Guild.