Alright, this is going to sound crazy... start going to improv shows and improv jams... take improv classes if they offer them. In the two cities I've spent time in the improv scene they have been overflowing with really decent people with at least tolerable politics and often downright good politics. It's a special kind of awkward when most of the people there have social anxiety and we're all trying to navigate awkward conversations but like... it's a very humanizing, non-aggressive experience versus trying to struggle through that with people who are highly socially skilled. They are warm and welcoming in a very particular way. Honestly the community is like a cult except the only dogma is to laugh at dumb improv even when it isn't funny because you're all there to support each other's growth.
Do NOT get into the stand-up scene. Open mics are awash with right wing "comedians" who get mad at the audience for not laughing at their racist, transphobic bullshit.
Alright, this is going to sound crazy... start going to improv shows and improv jams... take improv classes if they offer them. In the two cities I've spent time in the improv scene they have been overflowing with really decent people with at least tolerable politics and often downright good politics. It's a special kind of awkward when most of the people there have social anxiety and we're all trying to navigate awkward conversations but like... it's a very humanizing, non-aggressive experience versus trying to struggle through that with people who are highly socially skilled. They are warm and welcoming in a very particular way. Honestly the community is like a cult except the only dogma is to laugh at dumb improv even when it isn't funny because you're all there to support each other's growth.
Do NOT get into the stand-up scene. Open mics are awash with right wing "comedians" who get mad at the audience for not laughing at their racist, transphobic bullshit.