In this Passionistas in Focus replay, legendary comedian and activist Margaret Cho joins our special guest host Selene Luna — actress (Mayans M.C., Disney’s Coco), producer, and disability rights advocate — for a powerful conversation about why normalizing equality is everyone’s job. Together, they explore the intersection of comedy and activism, the importance of mentorship and representation, and what it means to keep fighting for inclusion in today’s world. With humor, honesty, and
heart, Margaret and Selene remind us that equality isn’t a trend — it’s a
shared responsibility that begins with empathy, awareness, and the courage to speak up.

Learn more about Margaret Cho.

Learn more about Selene Luna.

Learn more about The Passionistas Project.

ON THIS EPISODE:

• Introduction by Amy and Nancy Harrington and background on the Passionistas Persist Humanitarian Award

• Guest host Selene Luna introduces Margaret Cho and reflects on their friendship and shared commitment to activism

• Margaret’s gratitude for being recognized and her belief that activism is everyone’s responsibility

• How Joan Rivers, Robin Williams, Whoopi Goldberg, Jerry Seinfeld, and Rosie O’Donnell mentored her early career

• The importance of support and community among women in comedy

• Growing up in the “Generation Analog” era — creativity before the internet

• How entertainment has evolved to become more inclusive and representative

• A candid conversation about intersectional feminism and inclusion for women of color and people with disabilities

• The emotional toll and necessity of activism in everyday life

• Reflections on anti-Asian violence, systemic racism, and the cycles of prejudice in America

• Margaret’s upbringing around activism through her parents’ gay bookstore and witnessing the AIDS crisis

• Her views on cancel culture and how it challenges comedians to become more intentional and artful

• A lighter moment discussing her rescue dog Lucia and partnership with Michelson Found Animals

• The inspiration behind her “Fresh Off the Bloat” tour and performing in a post-pandemic world

• Closing reflections on the future of equality, inclusion, and creative expression

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