(Ontario, CA) – Mary Brown, President and CEO of the Sickle Cell Disease Foundation, today issued the following statement in response to recent “jokes” made about sickle cell disease and new gene therapies on the December 16, 2023, episode of NBC’s “Saturday Night Live.”
“Just months ago, the Sickle Cell Disease Foundation conb@scdfc.demned other television shows for making distasteful ‘jokes’ about sickle cell disease. Ignorant and racist jokes make it that much harder to change narratives for the positive or for systemic changes to occur. We work tirelessly to ensure those living with the oldest and most neglected blood disorder receive the attention and respect they deserve, but moments like those that occurred last Saturday, December 16 make it that much more difficult.
“While the comments centered around the potential limited access associated with new gene therapy infusions and the complexities associated with the technology, the comment by Andrew Dismukes’ character, saying ‘doubt it, my whole family is white’ in response to a comment about using the cure only adds to the historic stigmatization and discrimination experienced by this community. Saturday Night Live must do better.
“Those who believe sickle cell disease is a joking matter do not witness the strength these warriors exhibit every single day. We’re tired of being the butt of distasteful jokes, and we’re tired of educating those who simply do not care to be educated. To the writers for these shows, and those with a large platform, please use your voices and influence wisely and supportively.
“We recognize the complexities associated with the advancements made in gene therapy technologies and note that it is essential to understand that not everyone will have access to these new treatment options. We must continue working to ensure all those affected by the disease have access to quality, specialized, and comprehensive care. And, it is critical to acknowledge the entire health care system’s shared responsibility in eliminating barriers to care and building trust within our community.
“We are providing educational resources to NBC executives, producers, and writers to ensure greater sensitivity to the debilitating impact of sickle cell disease; the discrimination within the health care system; and the importance of these new gene therapies for those living with intense pain, organ damage, and at-risk of early death as a result of this disorder. Please heed our words and do better.”
About the Sickle Cell Disease Foundation
The Sickle Cell Disease Foundation (SCDF) was incorporated in 1957 and is the first and oldest Sickle Cell Disease community-based organization of its kind in the nation. As the only organization in California approved to provide Hemoglobin-Trait Counseling Services and direct the Sickle Cell Educator/Counselor Certification Training Course, SCDF provides life-enhancing education, services and programs for individuals living with Sickle Cell Disease. SCDF broadens public awareness, delivers effective advocacy initiatives, and promotes innovative therapies to ultimately find a cure. Learn more by visiting www.scdfc.org.