There are moments in public life that require us to pause, take a collective breath, and ask ourselves—what kind of society are we striving to build? Recently, at a public rally, the comment was made that there’s “literally a floating island of garbage in the middle of the ocean… I think it’s called Puerto Rico.” This racially charged statement has not only struck a nerve but has crossed a line. It has opened old wounds of prejudice and reanimated hurtful stereotypes that, for too long, have plagued Puerto Rican culture and history. Such words, spoken in jest, have immediate consequences that ripple through communities, especially when Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory brimming with resilience, talent, and hospitality that define the Caribbean experience.
This type of rhetoric is profoundly harmful, and here’s why: jokes that frame entire communities as “garbage” reduce human lives, heritage, and history into a careless punchline. It is a profound misrepresentation of the reality of Puerto Rican life and its contributions, which have not only shaped the United States but enriched global culture. Puerto Ricans have stood shoulder-to-shoulder with Americans in times of war, contributed to the fields of science, medicine, arts, and business, and continually demonstrated a spirit of hospitality that has made Puerto Rico a beloved Caribbean destination. This is a culture defined by pride, resilience, and creativity—not by some shameful caricature.
Reactions from the Artistic and Professional Community
This incident is not just an affront to Puerto Ricans but to anyone who values human dignity and cultural respect. Artists, educators, business leaders, and advocates of all backgrounds should feel compelled to stand up against this kind of casual degradation. In the world of art, creators continually work to tell stories that bridge cultures, challenge perceptions, and connect communities. When public figures, particularly those in politics, resort to crude and divisive jokes, they tear down these bridges. Artists are the storytellers of our societies, and now, perhaps more than ever, they must raise their voices through music, visual art, poetry, and performance to confront this kind of careless rhetoric.
Imagine a powerful art installation juxtaposing Puerto Rican natural beauty with messages of strength and resilience—an undeniable reminder of what Puerto Rico truly represents. Or envision musicians and performers creating pieces that reflect the vibrancy of Puerto Rican culture, countering every ill-informed stereotype with beats, rhythms, and lyrics that tell the true story of this Caribbean island. Such responses aren’t merely symbolic; they are loud, proud, and unforgettable retorts to those who would reduce us to harmful labels.
An Invitation to Educators, Professionals, and Policy Advocates
Beyond the arts, it’s time for educators, business leaders, and community advocates to rise in defense of Puerto Rico and its people. In the educational sector, teachers and academics have the power to shape the future by instilling in young minds an understanding of cultural respect, sensitivity, and the value of diversity. An insult toward Puerto Rico is an affront to all territories and communities whose voices and identities have been marginalized or caricatured.
Business leaders, too, have a responsibility to respond. Tourism in Puerto Rico, which sustains countless families, thrives on the island's reputation for kindness, service, and warmth. These qualities aren’t born from privilege; they are forged through a history of struggle, resilience, and deep-rooted pride. Corporate America and tourism boards must take a stand against language that undermines the reputation and dignity of Puerto Rico. Silence is complicity, and companies who wish to engage with Puerto Rican markets must actively reject racist rhetoric and foster a culture of respect.
Let Us Reclaim the Narrative
Finally, we need to reject the trivialization of Puerto Rican culture and identity. The island of Puerto Rico is not “garbage”; it is a vibrant community of over 3+ million souls who love, work, innovate, and contribute to the world in countless ways. Let’s remember the countless Puerto Rican scientists, doctors, artists, entrepreneurs, and leaders who have excelled on the world stage. Let us not allow ignorant comments to strip them of the respect they deserve.
We must call upon the artistic and professional sectors to respond—not with anger, but with a dignified, unified voice that rejects hate and promotes understanding. Let us fill this gap with stories, art, and messages that affirm the beauty and resilience of Puerto Rican culture. Let us answer disrespect with creativity, discrimination with solidarity, and ignorance with education.
As we reclaim this narrative, let’s stand for a future where our differences are celebrated and our cultures respected. This is a call for all who value human dignity: Puerto Ricans are not garbage—they are proud people of a proud island, a cornerstone of Caribbean heritage, and a thriving, integral part of the American story. We will not let that story be misrepresented, nor allow that dignity to be degraded by careless words.
Reactions from the Artistic and Professional Community
This incident is not just an affront to Puerto Ricans but to anyone who values human dignity and cultural respect. Artists, educators, business leaders, and advocates of all backgrounds should feel compelled to stand up against this kind of casual degradation. In the world of art, creators continually work to tell stories that bridge cultures, challenge perceptions, and connect communities. When public figures, particularly those in politics, resort to crude and divisive jokes, they tear down these bridges. Artists are the storytellers of our societies, and now, perhaps more than ever, they must raise their voices through music, visual art, poetry, and performance to confront this kind of careless rhetoric.
Imagine a powerful art installation juxtaposing Puerto Rican natural beauty with messages of strength and resilience—an undeniable reminder of what Puerto Rico truly represents. Or envision musicians and performers creating pieces that reflect the vibrancy of Puerto Rican culture, countering every ill-informed stereotype with beats, rhythms, and lyrics that tell the true story of this Caribbean island. Such responses aren’t merely symbolic; they are loud, proud, and unforgettable retorts to those who would reduce us to harmful labels.
An Invitation to Educators, Professionals, and Policy Advocates
Beyond the arts, it’s time for educators, business leaders, and community advocates to rise in defense of Puerto Rico and its people. In the educational sector, teachers and academics have the power to shape the future by instilling in young minds an understanding of cultural respect, sensitivity, and the value of diversity. An insult toward Puerto Rico is an affront to all territories and communities whose voices and identities have been marginalized or caricatured.
Business leaders, too, have a responsibility to respond. Tourism in Puerto Rico, which sustains countless families, thrives on the island's reputation for kindness, service, and warmth. These qualities aren’t born from privilege; they are forged through a history of struggle, resilience, and deep-rooted pride. Corporate America and tourism boards must take a stand against language that undermines the reputation and dignity of Puerto Rico. Silence is complicity, and companies who wish to engage with Puerto Rican markets must actively reject racist rhetoric and foster a culture of respect.
Let Us Reclaim the Narrative
Finally, we need to reject the trivialization of Puerto Rican culture and identity. The island of Puerto Rico is not “garbage”; it is a vibrant community of over 3+ million souls who love, work, innovate, and contribute to the world in countless ways. Let’s remember the countless Puerto Rican scientists, doctors, artists, entrepreneurs, and leaders who have excelled on the world stage. Let us not allow ignorant comments to strip them of the respect they deserve.
We must call upon the artistic and professional sectors to respond—not with anger, but with a dignified, unified voice that rejects hate and promotes understanding. Let us fill this gap with stories, art, and messages that affirm the beauty and resilience of Puerto Rican culture. Let us answer disrespect with creativity, discrimination with solidarity, and ignorance with education.
As we reclaim this narrative, let’s stand for a future where our differences are celebrated and our cultures respected. This is a call for all who value human dignity: Puerto Ricans are not garbage—they are proud people of a proud island, a cornerstone of Caribbean heritage, and a thriving, integral part of the American story. We will not let that story be misrepresented, nor allow that dignity to be degraded by careless words.
Author
Dr. Gilberto Crespo is an information security researcher & technology expert. He has been working for more than 24+ years in the information technology industries, cybersecurity, financial, higher education, and life coaching. He is also a motivational and leadership speaker.
