My mom used to get arrested for being with my dad. She would get fined. She would spend weekends in jail.

In this quote, Trevor Noah shares a personal and painful aspect of his childhood, highlighting the challenges his mom faced due to her relationship with his dad. The statement reveals that his mother was arrested for being with his father, which likely refers to the social and legal restrictions on interracial relationships during the time. Fines and spending weekends in jail were consequences his mother faced simply for being in a relationship that defied societal norms.

Noah’s mention of his mother’s struggles speaks to the deeply racial and social tensions that existed in the past, especially in South Africa under apartheid, where such relationships were not just frowned upon but outright criminalized. This part of his story illustrates the harsh realities that people of mixed racial backgrounds had to endure. It also sheds light on the bravery and sacrifice of his mother, who, despite facing oppression, stayed committed to her relationship with his father.

The quote also highlights the way in which Noah's family and upbringing were shaped by the political climate and racial injustice around them. Growing up in an environment where his parents' love was considered illegal reveals the complexity of his early life, marked by the tensions of race, identity, and freedom. These experiences would later inform much of Noah’s comedy, as he often uses humor to address difficult topics like racial inequality and discrimination.

The origin of this quote comes from Trevor Noah’s memoir, "Born a Crime," where he recounts his experiences growing up as a mixed-race child in apartheid-era South Africa. His recollection of his mother's sacrifices emphasizes the profound impact of societal oppression on personal lives and the strength required to navigate such a divided world. This story reflects the larger narrative of resilience and love in the face of systemic adversity.