Amy Schumer Hits Back on Racism Claim: ‘You Got the Wrong Jew’

By Josefin Dolsten September 29, 2016

(JTA) — Amy Schumer deflected charges of racism by saying, “you got the wrong Jew.”

The comedian’s comments came in response to criticism that has dogged her since she tweeted a controversial message and participated in a widely criticized interview with “Girls” creator Lena Dunham.

“I think we all have room to learn,” Schumer told Bravo host Andy Cohen on Monday. “I can’t think of anybody I’m racist against. When I get accused of that, I’m just like, you got the wrong Jew. You’re barking up the wrong Jew.”

Earlier this month, Schumer wrote a (swiftly deleted) implying that men of color were more likely to catcall women on the street. Her comment came the same day she and Dunham drew criticism for an interview that some said contained racist undertones.

In the interview, published in Dunham’s newsletter, “Lenny,” Dunham told Schumer about her experience sitting next to African- American football player Odell Beckham Jr. at the Met Gala, and accused him of ignoring her due to her looks.

Dunham also said she wanted to “grind my ass on” African-American actor Michael B. Jordan.

Dunham later apologized for the comments, which were criticized for being unfairly harsh and being tinged with racism.

On Monday, Schumer came to Dunham’s defense.

“I think people definitely target Lena,” Schumer said. “I think everybody has room to learn more about other cultures and races and what’s offensive and what’s not. I spoke up a little bit because I want to get my girl’s back. I love Lena. I know she has the best intentions.”

Josefin Dolsten is a New York-based writer who has reported for the Forward, Jewish Telegraphic Agency, The Times of Israel and other Jewish publications. She currently works as an account director at Fenton Communications, supporting organizations that work to advance racial justice, LGBTQ+ equality, reproductive rights and more. Dolsten earned her B.A. in government from Cornell University and her M.A. in comparative religion and Jewish studies from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem.

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