10/29/2024
**Joint Statement by the Pennsylvania Black Caucus and PA Dems Latino Caucus**
**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
Lehigh Valley, PA —
As Chairs of the PA Dems Black Caucus and Latino Caucus, we stand united in condemning the vile, racist attacks recently directed at Puerto Rican communities and the despicable racial slur hurled at a Black audience member during a public event at Madison Square Garden. To demean Puerto Rico as “a floating island of garbage” and use derogatory, dehumanizing language rooted in racist stereotypes is not only disgraceful; it is an attack on our shared dignity, our heritage, and the very principles of respect and equality that should define our nation.
This was no isolated incident. It reflects a troubling, consistent pattern of hateful rhetoric, endorsed by those who thrive on division and fear. When a comedian with a known history of bigotry was given the stage, it was a calculated choice—a clear signal that some are willing to embrace prejudice and degrade entire communities, especially communities of color, to stoke division and resentment.
These words are designed to evoke fear, resentment, and anger, but we reject this divisive agenda. Black and Latino communities across Pennsylvania—and all Americans who believe in respect and equality—must unite against this dangerous rhetoric. Together, we will confront hate wherever it rears its head, whether in public spaces, on our streets, or within the platforms and policies of any campaign.
Let us be clear: these are not just words; they are the symbols of a darker ideology that belongs in the past. We know the painful history behind these insults, and we refuse to let this past be our future. Our communities are resilient, powerful, and united in the fight against such prejudice.
We call on all Pennsylvanians—and all Americans—to reject these hate-filled attacks and rally for a future of equality and respect. Now is the time to organize, to vote, and to demand leaders who champion dignity for all, not those who rely on hateful rhetoric to gain power.
**Michael Laws**
*Chair, PA Dems Black Caucus*
**Janet Diaz**
*Chair, PA Dems Latino Caucus*
