Congressman condemns racist remarks about Puerto Ricans
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONGRESSMAN JONATHAN L. JACKSON CONDEMNS RACIST ATTACKS AGAINST PUERTO RICANS
Chicago, IL – 10/29/2024 – Congressman Jonathan L. Jackson today issued a strong condemnation of the recent racist comments made against Puerto Ricans. In a statement, Congressman Jackson emphasized the importance of unity, respect, and the celebration of diversity within our nation.
"These comments are not only deeply offensive but also completely unacceptable," said the Congressman. "Puerto Ricans are an integral part of our American family, contributing to our society in countless ways. Racism and discrimination have no place in our country, and we must stand together to denounce such hateful rhetoric."
"It is very sad that Former President Trump did not condemn this, and other racist, bigoted, and divisive statements made during his rally. At his Madison Square Garden campaign rally, speakers referred to Puerto Rico as a 'floating pile of garbage,' said that African Americans 'carved watermelons,' referred to V.P. Kamala Harris as having a 'pimp,' described Democrats as 'the enemy within,' and repeated the 1939 Nazi chant 'America for Americans.' This rally follows previous statements where the former President claimed that Haitian migrants in Springfield, OH have been 'eating the dogs, eating the cats.' He has also referred to Mexicans as rapists and said that there were 'very fine people on both sides' during a Neo-Nazi rally in Charlottesville, VA.
For Vice Presidential nominee J.D. Vance to also dismiss these hate speeches is absolutely beneath the dignity of anyone inspiring for any office of leadership in the U.S. Vance has embraced that “Great Replacement Theory” which promotes the idea that “White People” are being replaced in America by minorities and thus we must have a stricter immigration policy as well as policies to force White women to produce more children.
Congressman Jackson called for immediate action to address the issue and urged his colleagues in Congress to join him in condemning these remarks. "We must work tirelessly to ensure that all individuals, regardless of their background, are treated with dignity and respect," he added. "Our diversity is our strength, and we must protect it."
The Congressman also highlighted the need for continued education and awareness to combat racism and promote inclusivity. "We have a responsibility to educate ourselves and others about the harmful effects of racism and to foster an environment where everyone feels valued and respected," he said.
Puerto Ricans have consistently demonstrated their dedication and bravery, serving in all U.S. wars since World War I and contributing significantly to the nation's military efforts. Over 1,900 U.S. citizens of Puerto Rico have made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of America's freedom. Puerto Ricans have been influential in American politics. Nydia Velázquez was the first Puerto Rican woman elected to the U.S. House of Representatives and currently Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY), Darren Soto (D-FL), Jenniffer González-Colón (R-PR) join her in representing the Puerto Rican community.
Puerto Ricans have consistently shown their dedication and bravery, serving in all U.S. wars since World War I and making significant contributions to the nation's military efforts. Over 1,900 U.S. citizens from Puerto Rico have made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of America's freedom. In American politics, Puerto Ricans have also been influential. Nydia Velázquez was the first Puerto Rican woman elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, and currently, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY), Darren Soto (D-FL), and Jenniffer González-Colón (R-PR) join her in representing the Puerto Rican community.
Congressman Jackson remains committed to advocating for the rights and well-being of all communities and will continue to work towards a more inclusive and equitable society. He calls on all of the better angels of America to come together and denounce hate in all forms.
###
Contact:
Robert Hillard Patillo II
Office of the Director of Communications
Office of Congressman Jonathan L. Jackson (D-IL-01)
1641 Longworth HOB, Washington, DC 20515
Robert.Patillo@mail.house.gov
Official Website | 202-225-4372