‘SNL’ star condemns racist reactions and urges unity as SNAP delays hit low-income families.
Michael Che is speaking out about the “really fucked up” situation facing millions of Americans as Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) payments were disrupted amid the ongoing government shutdown.
In a candid Instagram post, the Saturday Night Live cast member said he has been disturbed by social-media videos “celebrating (mostly Black) families not being able to buy groceries,” calling the trend racist and inhumane.
Che criticized the mindset that because some people may have misused welfare benefits, no one should receive help.
He argued that the U.S. has long allowed the wealthy and powerful to “take shortcuts and game the system,” yet poor families—especially Black families—are judged far more harshly for trying to survive. “When poor people find a way to turn nickel into a dime, they’re judged more severely,” he wrote.
The shutdown has complicated SNAP funding nationwide. Although a judge ordered the Trump administration to continue payments using emergency reserves, the shutdown has still delayed benefits, leaving families uncertain about how to feed themselves.
These disruptions, combined with online mockery of struggling households, prompted Che to call for compassion and collective responsibility.
He urged people to “draw the line at feeding the poor,” noting his own childhood experiences relying on government assistance, including “free cheese and powdered milk” and using food stamps in secrecy to avoid embarrassment. Che emphasized that there’s nothing glamorous about poverty or needing help.
Earlier this year, Hollywood figures including Scarlett Johansson, Matt Damon, and Kristin Chenoweth signed an open letter opposing Trump’s “Big Beautiful Bill,” which proposed sweeping cuts to SNAP and Medicaid.
They urged Congress to protect programs that help millions afford food and healthcare.
Che’s post arrives just before Miles Teller’s upcoming appearance as host on Saturday Night Live, reinforcing the comedian’s commitment to using his platform to highlight social inequities.
