The world is a heavy place right now and the water movement is no exception. In the midst of serious challenges, it can feel strange to suggest that we…well…lighten up. 

But there’s a role for levity, even in dark times.

Used appropriately, humor is a powerful communication tool. It can breathe life into subjects that some might find dry or boring. It can make people feel more connected to you and more receptive to what you have to say. It can hold truth to power and influence public opinion (but like, in a fun, approachable way). In the words of Jordan Peele, fun works. 

Most importantly, laughter helps us survive tough times. Humor can be a healthy outlet for processing heavy feelings, leaving us more prepared to keep up the fight for the long-haul. (After all, this is a marathon, not a race.)

Here at Water Hub, we’ve been experimenting with creating “edutainment” videos – extremely silly content with the goal of both informing and delighting viewers. My colleague Zakiyaa did her best David Attenborough impression in a video celebrating beavers. I got very goofy making a trailer for a fake superhero/horror movie about harmful algae blooms. And we plan to make more unhinged content like this in the future, and share what we’ve learned with you all soon. 

In the meantime, I encourage you to embrace your silly side. It might be more important than you think.