Indianapolis comedian, poet, author and victim advocate Claressa Patton, better known as Clara D, has made laughter an important part of her life and work. After losing her husband and brother to separate acts of violence just 57 days apart, Patton made herself a promise: “I will laugh more than I cry.” Today, Patton draws on those experiences in two very different areas of her life: working with families affected by violent crime and creating comedy events that give audiences a safe place to laugh.
In this conversation with Cultural Manifesto’s Kyle Long, Patton talks about her journey into comedy, her work as a victim advocate, and the role laughter has played in her own healing. She also discusses her book Healing in Pieces and her efforts to help others navigate grief and loss.
