Dave Chappelle Shares Message for Trump and Americans on ‘SNL’ before Inauguration
A Powerful Monologue
Comedian Dave Chappelle returned to “Saturday Night Live” to host for the fourth time just two days before President-elect Donald Trump retakes the oath of office, and he had a powerful message for the country’s 47th president.
A Message for the President-Elect
Chappelle, who first hosted “SNL” after Trump’s election in 2016, gave a lengthy monologue to the Studio 8H crowd, where he made jokes from the controversy over whether pets were being eaten in Springfield, Ohio, to the allegations against Sean “Diddy” Combs. However, the “Chappelle Show” creator ended his set with a message that was a little more serious.
A Message of Empathy and Humanity
“Here’s the thing, on Monday, Donald Trump is coming back. He’ll be the 47th president. He’s done it again,” Chappelle said. The stand-up comedian then noted that most American flags will be at half-staff to honor President Jimmy Carter, who died in December.
A Story of Humanity and Empathy
While Chappelle said he was “not qualified” to say whether Carter was a good or bad president, he recalled when he and the former president were both visiting the Middle East years ago, after he left the “Chappelle Show.”
A Controversial Book
“While he (Carter) was in Israel, a book of his was released whose title was very controversial in Israel,” Chappelle recalled. “The title of the book was, ‘Palestine: Peace Not Apartheid.'”
A Powerful Moment
Chappelle recalled the book was receiving criticism in Israel, and that Carter requested a trip to Palestine. The comedian said the Israeli government said it would be too dangerous, but the former president went anyway. Chappelle recalled images of Carter surrounded by Palestinians welcoming him as he visited with little security.
A Lesson in Humanity
“It brought tears to my eyes. I said, ‘I don’t know if that was a good president, but that right there is a great man,'” Chappelle recalled. “It made me feel very proud.”
A Message to Trump and Americans
“The presidency is no place for petty people,” Chappelle added. “So, Donald Trump, I know you watch the show… Man, remember, people, whether they voted for you or not, they are all counting on you. Whether they like you or not, they are all counting on you. The whole world is counting on you.”
A Call to Action
“I mean this when I say this, good luck. Please, do better next time. Please, all of us, do better next time. Do not forget your humanity, and please have empathy for displaced people, whether they are in the Palisades or Palestine.”
Conclusion
Chappelle’s message was a powerful reminder of the importance of empathy and humanity, especially in times of division and uncertainty. As the United States enters a new era with the inauguration of President-elect Trump, Chappelle’s words serve as a timely reminder of the responsibility that comes with leadership.
FAQs
* Who hosted “Saturday Night Live” just two days before President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration?
+ Dave Chappelle
* What was the topic of Chappelle’s message to President-elect Trump?
+ The importance of empathy and humanity
* Who did Chappelle recall visiting the Middle East with?
+ President Jimmy Carter
