Jupiter, FL — In a display of wit and cunning reminiscent of a drowsy opossum, the conservative and Christian website, The Babylon Bee, has recently grasped the notion that it is, in fact, a “satire” site. This epiphany, akin to a blindfolded man realizing he’s been led in circles, comes after they published numerous articles lampooning transgender and non-binary individuals. With this newfound “satire” identity, the Babylon Bee can continue producing offensive content hidden safely behind the veil of humor.
“Why, it’s a genius strategy!” proclaimed editor-in-chief Dick Pretentious with the fervor of a man who has found a single grain of gold amidst a mountain of rocks. “We simply label our articles ‘satire,’ and like magic, they become as harmless as a fly’s whisper. We can jest at people’s identities without fear of consequence.”
Examples of the Babylon Bee’s “satirical” masterpieces include “Man Identifies As Woman Just Long Enough To Voice Valid Opinion On Abortion,” “Motorcyclist Who Identifies As Bicyclist Sets Cycling World Record,” and “M&M’s Introduce First Trans Character Who Identifies As A Skittle.” Though the website claims these literary feats are meant to elicit laughter, many critics argue that they perpetuate harmful stereotypes and misinformation.
One cannot help but be reminded of the bigots of yesteryear who found humor in the plight of Native Americans, African Americans, Chinese, and Latino immigrants. Our nation’s history is peppered with such jesters whose cruel jokes have stained our collective conscience. It seems that, despite the passage of time, there remain those who seek to wield humor as a weapon against the vulnerable instead of as a tool for enlightenment and understanding.
Florida State’s Dr. Samantha Wokesley, a professor of media and communications, shared her concerns.
“The Babylon Bee’s so-called satire is akin to a wolf in sheep’s clothing. They perpetuate negative stereotypes and marginalize vulnerable communities with their jests. Unfortunately, their target audience may take these tales as truth, further entrenching existing prejudices.”
Yet, Pretentious remains as immovable as a mule in a mud puddle. “We’re merely jesters in the court of public opinion, and people ought to find the humor in our words. We’ve discovered our true identity as satire, so everything is fair game. After all, what harm can there be in laughing at the expense of others?”
As the Babylon Bee continues to don its newfound “satirical” robes, one must wonder whether its controversial content will remain divisive or disappear into the cacophony of today’s quarrelsome media environment. For now, their tactic of hiding behind the satire label seems to afford them the ability to poke fun at others’ identities with an air of audacious impunity.
