Did you hear the one about the Arab and the camel trader's daughter?

Probably not. But you might someday.

Some Arab-Americans have discovered a way to make their ethnic group more acceptable to other Americans -- through humor.

That's a wonderful approach, and one with rich possibilities. Anyone acquainted with members of Topeka's Muslim community knows that many of them have a wonderful sense of humor.

In New York City, a lawyer-turned professional comedian, Dean Obeidallah, and actress and comedian Maysoon Zayid have co-founded the Arab-American Comedy Festival.

As Zayid explained, the message is that, "We're not scary. We're not the enemy. We're really funny."

Obeidallah said that one thing that helps is that Arab comedians are increasingly willing to mock the Arab-American community.

Zayid said Arab-Americans are just following the trail blazed by other ethnic groups -- blacks and Hispanics, for example -- in using humor to show that there are unique aspects to their cultures, but that they have a sense of humor just like anyone else.

It's a wonderful message and a great way to get the message out. One good way to reach an American's heart is through his funny bone.

It would be nice if the group would take their show on the road so more Americans could experience it.