Michael Che Blasts SNAP Freeze as ‘Really F–ed Up’
Comedian and Saturday Night Live star Michael Che ignited a viral debate after calling out the recent freeze on Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, labeling it “really f–ed up.” In a raw social media thread, Che criticized both the policy change and the surge of racist videos mocking Black families struggling to afford groceries due to the cuts.
Why Are SNAP Benefits Being Frozen?
SNAP (formerly food stamps) helps low-income Americans buy groceries, but multiple states have:
– Reinstated work requirements
– Frozen pandemic-era expansions
– Tightened eligibility rules
The changes disproportionately impact marginalized communities, with food banks reporting a 40% spike in demand in some areas (Feeding America, 2023).
“Racist Videos Celebrating Hunger”: Che’s Viral Response
Che specifically called out trending clips showing Black SNAP users at checkout lines, captioned with derogatory tropes:
“I keep seeing racist videos celebrating (mostly Black) families not being able to buy groceries. People laughing at mothers counting pennies—that’s not funny, that’s evil.”
Studies confirm racial bias in welfare discourse:
– While 36% of SNAP recipients are white (vs. 25% Black), Black families are 2.3x more likely to face benefit cuts (CBPP)
– Viral “welfare fraud” narratives target Black households 5x more than white ones (Pew Research)
Political Divide: “Self-Sufficiency” vs. Systemic Failure
Conservatives argue:
– Work requirements “reduce dependency”
– SNAP costs taxpayers $113B annually (USDA)
Advocates counter:
– 65% of SNAP households with kids include working adults (FRAC)
– Cuts increase ER visits for malnutrition by 22% (JAMA Study)
Celebrity Reactions & Policy Solutions
Che’s post drew support from Roxane Gay and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who noted:
“SNAP kept 3.7 million people out of poverty in 2022. These cuts are cruelty for clicks.”
3 Ways to Help:
1. Donate to food banks via FeedingAmerica.org
2. Contact Congress to oppose H.R.2813 (SNAP Restrictions Bill)
3. Report racist welfare-shaming content on social platforms
The Irony of Corporate Welfare
Che’s closing point went viral:
“Jeff Bezos got $10B in tax breaks last year, but y’all rage over a mom buying bread with EBT. Make it make sense.”
