Comedian Michael Che has publicly condemned the reactions to the suspension of food stamp benefits, following the recent government shutdown. In a series of posts on his Instagram account, Che expressed concern over what he perceives as racist attitudes towards individuals reliant on welfare, particularly within marginalized communities.
The suspension of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) has sparked outrage, especially among those who believe it disproportionately impacts vulnerable populations. Che’s comments highlight the stigma surrounding welfare recipients, emphasizing that the ongoing shutdown exacerbates existing inequalities. He stated, “This SNAP freeze is really messed up. And I keep seeing a lot of racist videos celebrating families not being able to buy groceries.”
Che’s critique centers on the notion that systemic issues lead to unfair judgments about those who require assistance. He pointed out the hypocrisy in societal attitudes, questioning why certain individuals are vilified for seeking help when wealthier individuals often exploit systems for personal gain. “This country is built on greedy individuals taking shortcuts and gaming the system to their benefit,” he said, adding that poorer communities, especially Black Americans, face harsher scrutiny when trying to make ends meet.
Furthermore, Che reflected on his own experiences growing up in a low-income household. He described the embarrassment associated with using food stamps, stating, “I grew up on free cheese and powdered milk and waiting for your friends to leave the store so they won’t see me pay with stamps. That situation isn’t as glamorous as it sounds.”
The government shutdown, which began due to a lack of agreement among lawmakers, has left many programs, including SNAP, without funding. On social media, Che criticized the political landscape, suggesting that rather than blaming specific parties, society should confront the underlying racism that influences attitudes toward welfare.
In light of the suspension of benefits, some officials have expressed the need for immediate legal clarification regarding the continuation of SNAP payments. On October 13, 2023, government lawyers were instructed to seek court guidance on how to legally proceed with these payments amid the shutdown, as conflicting opinions from two courts have left the matter uncertain.
The impact of the shutdown and the pause in SNAP benefits is significant, affecting millions of Americans who rely on these funds for daily necessities. Che’s comments resonate with many who believe that public discourse should focus on empathy rather than judgment, especially during times of crisis.
As the debate continues, Che’s remarks serve as a reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by low-income families and the societal implications of stigmatizing those who seek support. With the government shutdown ongoing, the future of welfare benefits remains uncertain, prompting further discussions about race, poverty, and the role of government in supporting its citizens.
