Latino Action Network Condemns Comedian Tony Hinchcliffe, Trump for Offensive Remarks Against Puerto Rico

October 28, 2024 — New Brunswick, NJ — The Latino Action Network (LAN) strongly condemns recent inflammatory remarks made by comedian Tony Hinchcliffe, who belittled and degraded Puerto Rico by likening it to “a floating island of garbage in the middle of the ocean.” This offensive and irresponsible statement perpetuates harmful stereotypes and disregards the rich cultural heritage, resilience, and humanity of Puerto Ricans. While Puerto Ricans are American citizens, the Trump campaign continuously pushes divide and conquer in our Latino communities. LAN also denounces the continued use of anti-immigrant rhetoric as a central message of the Trump campaign, which sows division and spreads hatred toward Latino and immigrant communities. We will not sit back and allow any member of our Latino community, whether they are from Puerto Rico, Mexico, the Dominican Republic, or any other member nation of the Latino community, to be attacked by MAGA or their racist proxies.

Hinchcliffe’s comments, widely interpreted as a swipe at Puerto Rico, resonate with disturbing undertones that echo the disdain and disregard Puerto Rican residents and Latinos, in general, have often faced from leaders and media figures aligned with Trump’s MAGA movement. This hateful commentary adds to a troubling pattern of derogatory statements and policies that have targeted Latino communities and immigrant populations throughout the United States.

“The rhetoric coming from Tony Hinchcliffe and the Trump campaign normalizes prejudice against Latinos and Puerto Ricans, perpetuating divisive and damaging stereotypes,” said Javier Robles, President of the Latino Action Network. “As a Puerto Rican, I am personally offended when I have seen the struggles and successes of my family and fellow islanders. Americans are responsible for rejecting this language and behavior and supporting a candidate that works toward equity, dignity, and inclusion for all.”

LAN has tirelessly advocated for fair treatment and respect for Latinos, Puerto Ricans, and immigrants. Remarks like those made by Hinchcliffe, as well as the ongoing anti-immigrant discourse from the Trump campaign, only deepen divisions and fuel discrimination against marginalized groups. We call on all public figures and leaders to exercise restraint and humanity when speaking about fellow Americans.

The Latino Action Network encourages supporters and community allies to join in denouncing offensive remarks and standing up for the dignity of Latino and Puerto Rican communities. Now more than ever, we must hold accountable those who spread hate and bias, reminding them that such rhetoric has real consequences for the people and families affected.  To our fellow Puerto Ricans and Latino community members, we strongly urge you to vote for the Harris/Waltz Presidential ticket on Tuesday, November 5, 2024.

About the Latino Action Network

The Latino Action Network (LAN) is a grassroots organization dedicated to improving the lives of Latinos in New Jersey and across the United States. LAN advocates for policies and practices that promote social, economic, and racial justice, standing up against discrimination and promoting the well-being and rights of Latino communities.

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