Khy Garner: Art, Racism, and Resilience on The Lighter Side with Jay
It's not enough to just recognize that you have privilege. You have to stand and be an ally for those who don't.
What do you get when you mix raw honesty, profound struggles, and a deep love for art? You get Khy Garner's conversation with Jay Casale on The Lighter Side. Khy, a vocal instructor and performer, opens up about the exhaustion that comes with facing systemic racism and the ignorance that surrounds it. Raised to be a gentleman, Khy is tired of the losses and the realization that many so-called allies are anything but.
This episode is a heartfelt catch-up between friends, offering a window into Khy's past, present, and future. Khy dives into his experiences growing up in a racially diverse community, nurtured by his grandmother alongside his cousins. His journey into community theater ignited his passion for performing and activism. Jay and Khy discuss how systemic racism has shaped Khy's life both personally and professionally.
He shares candid stories of racism's impact and stresses the need for true allyship—beyond just recognizing privilege, but actively standing up for those without it. The conversation also explores the significance of Juneteenth and Black History Month, emphasizing the importance of celebrating and educating others about Black contributions to American history and culture. Khy speaks to the power of art as a tool for activism, using his platform to raise awareness and drive change.
Beyond racism and activism, Khy opens up about his struggles with weight loss, mental health, and grief. Losing his mother at a young age and dealing with the loss of other loved ones have profoundly affected him. His challenges with weight loss have also impacted his mental health, adding another layer to his story.
Jay and Khy share thoughts on moving forward despite adversity, encouraging listeners to be active allies, educate themselves and others, and use their platforms for positive change. This episode is a rich tapestry of important discussions that will leave you thinking long after it's over.