Ep 2. Cartman's Silly Hate Crime 2000
- TV-MA
- April 12, 2000
- 22 min
-
8.6 (3,216)
In the episode Cartman's Silly Hate Crime 2000, the town of South Park is divided over a new hate crime law. After Cartman is arrested for throwing a rock at Token, the only African-American student at their school, he becomes the first person to be charged under the new hate crime legislation. While some of his friends try to defend him, others turn their backs on Cartman and accuse him of being a racist.
As the trial heats up, tensions between the townsfolk rise, with both sides becoming more and more entrenched in their positions. Meanwhile, Cartman tries to find a way out of the mess he's created, even going so far as to falsely confess to the crime in an attempt to curry favor with the jury.
Ultimately, however, it's up to the judge to decide Cartman's fate. In a surprising twist, the judge hands down a sentence that's both ironic and appropriate, leaving everyone in town stunned.
Throughout the episode, the writers use humor and satire to explore the complex issues surrounding hate crimes and race relations. By taking on such a controversial topic, the show manages to both entertain and challenge its audience, offering a nuanced look at a difficult topic that's just as relevant today as it was when the episode first aired back in 2000.