Why Did Scarlett Johansson Urge Congress to Save the Food Stamp Program?
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Synopsis
Hollywood star Scarlett Johansson has rallied with fellow celebrities, urging Congress to protect crucial support programs for underprivileged Americans. Amid potential budget cuts, the actress highlights the importance of food security and shared meals in fostering community. Discover the heartfelt message behind this significant call to action.
Key Takeaways
- Scarlett Johansson advocates for food assistance programs.
- Over 30 celebrities joined this campaign.
- Potential cuts to SNAP and Medicaid could affect millions.
- The letter emphasizes the importance of community support.
- Johansson reflects on her personal experience with public assistance.
Los Angeles, June 25 (NationPress) In a powerful move, Hollywood actress Scarlett Johansson has allied with a group of esteemed personalities from the film industry, advocating for the preservation of essential programs for underprivileged Americans.
The star of ‘Jurassic World Rebirth’ added her signature to an open letter, joining forces with over 30 fellow actors, musicians, and celebrities in collaboration with Feeding America, according to a report by People magazine.
This letter implores the 535 members of Congress to prioritize the welfare of millions of Americans by refraining from cuts to SNAP and Medicaid programs while they finalize President Donald Trump's "Big, Beautiful" budget proposal.
The letter states, "Dear Members of Congress, We all cherish memories of sharing meals with friends, family, and even strangers during celebrations, moments of sorrow, and everything in between. Food is a profound expression of care, compassion, and love. It is an essential aspect of the human experience and a fundamental right we all deserve.”
As detailed by People, approximately 15.5 million children and 7.2 million seniors depend on SNAP and Medicaid, with the letter emphasizing how these programs enable them to live healthier, dignified lives and contribute to flourishing communities across the nation.
The letter warns that Congress' spending bill could result in "some of the largest cuts to SNAP and Medicaid in U.S. history," potentially stripping food security from hundreds of thousands of Americans, adding, "This is unacceptable and wrong. This is not how we treat each other during difficult times in this country.”
Despite being one of the highest-paid actresses globally at 40, Johansson's background was quite different. In 2023, she expressed her support for Feeding America through an open letter, reflecting on her upbringing with her twin brother, Hunter, as "normal kids" who enjoyed hot meals during school lunches alongside classmates.
"Now, as an adult, I feel immense gratitude for those meals,” she wrote. "My family relied on public assistance, and the meals I had at school were part of the free school lunch program, providing free breakfast and lunch to students from low-income families,” she added.
Point of View
It's crucial to recognize the impact of celebrities like Scarlett Johansson advocating for social programs. This initiative not only highlights the pressing issues of food security but also encourages public discourse on how we treat vulnerable populations in America. The collective voice of these influential figures can drive change and awareness.
NationPress
25/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the open letter signed by Scarlett Johansson?
The letter aims to urge Congress to prevent cuts to essential programs like SNAP and Medicaid that support underprivileged Americans.
How many celebrities joined Scarlett Johansson in signing the letter?
More than 30 actors, musicians, and celebrities signed the letter in collaboration with Feeding America.
What programs are at risk of cuts according to the letter?
The letter warns about potential cuts to SNAP and Medicaid programs as Congress finalizes the budget.
How many people rely on SNAP and Medicaid?
Around 15.5 million children and 7.2 million seniors depend on these vital programs.
What is Scarlett Johansson's personal connection to public assistance?
Johansson has shared her experience growing up with public assistance and how school meals were an essential part of her childhood.
