ICYMI: Ramy Youssef Risked It All for Palestine on SNL
On March 30, Ramy Youssef performed a standup on SNL that has touched countless people across the world, including myself.
Lately, I have been going through a rollercoaster on social media. I have had to hit that unfollow button on Instagram, missed some job opportunities, and felt like some of my friends and colleagues were giving me the cold shoulder. Why? All because I have been vocal about my support for the Palestinian cause.
But you know what? This is not new. Taking a stand against injustice is not easy. It takes guts, and more than that, it takes knowing right from wrong. With everything happening in Palestine, it’s like the world is asking us: Do we stay quiet, or do we speak up and try to make a difference?
When creators, celebrities, athletes, and other influential figures align themselves with the oppressor or, worse yet, remain silent and complacent during the conflict, it raises questions about the kind of role models we uphold. When those we admire fail to advocate for a permanent ceasefire, it becomes apparent that power and influence do not automatically translate to moral action.
Ramy Youssef seized the spotlight during his high-profile SNL monologue to passionately advocate for the freedom of the Palestinian people and an end to their suffering. This is a powerful example of how comedians and public figures can utilize their platforms to shed light on crucial social and political issues.
What is even more remarkable is that Youssef was not just talking out of nowhere. He had a personal stake in it—his friend’s family was in Gaza, going through hell. That kind of connection made his message hit even harder.
We might not solve everything overnight, but by speaking out for what is right, we are part of something bigger. We are part of a movement striving for a world where justice is not just a dream—it is a reality.
When I see someone like Youssef speaking up, it gives me hope. It reminds me that even in a world full of noise and conflict, our voices matter. We might not solve everything overnight, but by speaking out for what is right, we are part of something bigger. We are part of a movement striving for a world where justice is not just a dream—it is a reality.
Youssef’s SNL monologue teaches us that getting involved in activism is not always easy—it often means putting something on the line. Whether it is risking your career, facing backlash on social media, or even losing connections with friends and colleagues, activism demands sacrifice. But it is through these risks that real change begins to take shape. Every unfollow, missed opportunity and uncomfortable conversation are all part of the price we pay for standing up for what we believe in. And while it may feel daunting at times, it is important to remember that the impact of our actions can far outweigh the temporary discomfort.
