Jennifer Lopez rallied support for Kamala Harris at a Las Vegas event and slammed Donald Trump’s recent comments at the event as offensive and divisive. The pop icon expressed her disappointment over comments from speakers at Trump’s Madison Square Garden gathering, where speakers reportedly made racist jokes, including derogatory comments about Puerto Rico. Addressing the crowd, López explained how those statements hurt not only Puerto Ricans but also “anyone with decent character” and “humanity,” reported Deadline.
In her speech, López, who herself is of Puerto Rican descent, strongly defended her identity and heritage, and pointed out that Puerto Ricans are Americans. “I’m Puerto Rican, and yes, I was born here,” she said, emphasizing her connection to the US and pride in her heritage. Lopez connected her journey as an entertainer to that of the vice president, saying both have had to defy societal expectations. She shared how, early in her career, she was typecast in stereotypical roles such as a maid or a “fiery Latina”. Lopez argued that, like him, many Americans simply want the opportunity to showcase their ability.
According to López, Trump’s Madison Square Garden event featured divisive rhetoric that targeted the Puerto Rican community. One speaker, comedian Tony Hinchcliffe, called Puerto Rico an “island of trash”, prompting a response from various entertainers of Puerto Rican origin. Hinchcliffe’s comments became part of Harris’ campaign, with celebrities such as LeBron James also criticizing her. Prominent Puerto Rican entertainers, including Ricky Martin, Lin-Manuel Miranda and Rita Moreno, responded with an op-ed defending the island’s people and talent, writing, “You might be surprised at what some people consider trash.”
During her speech, Lopez talked about the stakes of the upcoming election and why she supports Harris. He highlighted Harris as a leader who understands the struggles of Americans from diverse backgrounds and strives to open doors to all. Lopez acknowledged her generally non-combative nature, emphasizing that her goal was not to tear anyone down but that she felt strongly about her message. He concluded by underscoring Harris’s career-long dedication to her principles and the communities she represents.
Lopez urged the crowd to make their voices heard at the polls, saying, “Your voice and your vote matter.” The Las Vegas rally ended with an emotional appeal for unity and understanding amid heightened tensions ahead of the election.
Also read: Miraculous: Ladybug and Cat Noir’s stories could extend to 10 seasons; report
