Puerto Rican IU students condemn Trump’s remarks at rally

Puerto Rican students at IU are condemning the comedian’s comments last Sunday at a rally for former President and Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump.

Comedian Tony Hinchcliffe spoke at a rally in Madison Square Garden organized by the Trump campaign. During his speech Hinchcliffe said“I don’t know if you know this, but right now there is literally a floating island of garbage in the middle of the ocean. I think it’s called Puerto Rico.”

The IU Puerto Rican Student Association (PRSA) released statement Tuesday strongly condemns these remarks.

“This comment is deeply offensive and harmful, but also reflects a broader message that undermines the dignity and resilience of the Puerto Rican people,” the statement said.

Isabella Gallosa, founder and president of PRSA, said every Puerto Rican student she spoke with was upset by the comment.

“In times of political upheaval, we get relegated to the background because many people don’t know that we are U.S. citizens,” Galloza said. “It’s unfortunate to see this situation continue in this day and age, especially.”

Galloza said the comments were more than just a tasteless joke. She believes they reflect the US position and attitude towards Puerto Rico.

Puerto Rico is Commonwealth United States, which means it pays no federal taxes and has a representative in Congress who does not vote. According to BritanNikaMost Puerto Ricans support maintaining a permanent union with the United States. However, there is also a staunch minority who favor complete independence from the United States.

This November, Puerto Ricans will be able voting for the future of Puerto Rico choosing between statehood, independence or independence by free association. The vote is optional, meaning the results do not guarantee changes, and the final decision rests with the president and Congress. Rather, voting is intended to indicate citizens’ preferences.

Gallosa said she knows many Americans don’t pay much attention to Puerto Rico; the island is often forgotten by people living on the US mainland

“I want people to know about Puerto Rico in a positive light,” she said. “Instead of seeing it as a trash island in the middle of the ocean.”