One of the things that makes living in the Bryan-College Station area so great are the notable speakers that come to Texas A&M’s campus each year, from all the living presidents to Mikhail Gorbachev, Condelezza Rice and Lady Gaga. This year is no different; The MSC L.T. Jordan Institute for International Awareness, in partnership with MSC OPAS, Muslim Students’ Association and International Student Association is hosting their program, “Made in America: An International Experience.”
The event will feature famous comedian Hasan Minhaj, a senior correspondent for Comedy Central’s “The Daily Show with Trevor Noah.” He is also the star of his own Netflix special, “Homecoming King,” which highlights stories from Minhaj’s life as a first-generation Indian-American Muslim, and he was a speaker at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner. Minhaj effortlessly weaves political and social commentary with witty and relatable humor.
Minhaj’s opening act will be popular comedian Azhar Usman, who is returning to Texas A&M after performing on campus in 2016. He has done comedy tours around the United States in the past, collaborated with comedian Dave Chappelle and performed at comedy festivals, including “Allah Made Me Funny.” His show in 2016 dispelled many preconceived notions about American muslims.
Both performers often question stereotypes and misconceptions about immigration and Muslims and tell their story about growing up in America. This event is big for several communities on campus.
“The purpose of our committee is to provide our campus and community with exposure to cultures and issues around the world, so with this program, we decided to focus on the experiences of Third Culture Kids, or people who were raised in a culture different from that of their parents,” said Janie Davis, Vice Chair of the MSC L.T. Jordan Institute.
“Other Texas universities have large South Asian organizations on campus that regularly host events like this,” said Mihir Kulkarni, Texas A&M junior. “Hasan Minhaj has already performed at those universities. This is the first time there is an event like this on campus. He highlights experiences that are relatable for many students on campus.”
Both comedians will also participate in a Q&A session with the audience. The program will take place on March 27 at 7 p.m. in Rudder Auditorium, but ticket are on sale at the MSC Box Office, or online at boxoffice.tamu.edu.
