" Both my parents are immigrants. I’ve seen different struggles they’ve had. There’s a reason you don’t see me using accents. I don’t do impressions of my folks. When I’m doing a crappy impression of my folks, and you’re laughing, I’m thinking, ‘When my parents talk to people, when they walk away do people do impressions of them? Do they laugh?’ "
- Hari Kondabolu

In this quote, Hari Kondabolu speaks about his personal connection to his immigrant parents and how he chooses to represent them through humor without using accents or imitating their speech patterns. He explains that when people make fun of his parents' way of speaking or mannerisms, it deeply troubles him because it reflects a lack of respect for the struggles they have faced as immigrants.

The deep meaning behind Kondabolu's words touches on themes of cultural identity and empathy towards those who come from different backgrounds. By avoiding caricatures or stereotypical representations of his parents in his comedy routines, he emphasizes the importance of treating all individuals with dignity and understanding their unique life experiences. This approach not only shows respect for his family but also challenges the audience to think critically about how they perceive immigrants and people from diverse cultural backgrounds.

Hari Kondabolu is a comedian, writer, director, and activist known for addressing social issues through humor. His work often explores topics related to race, ethnicity, politics, and pop culture, drawing on his own experiences as an Indian American growing up in New York City. Through his stand-up comedy routines and documentaries like "The Totally.Raw. Podcast" and "Occupation: Foxxhole," Kondabolu brings attention to important societal issues while engaging audiences with thought-provoking humor.