Selena Gomez has publicly addressed a controversial joke made by comedian Tony Hinchcliffe during a recent rally for Donald Trump, which many found offensive. The remarks, which likened Puerto Rico to “a floating island of garbage,” have sparked outrage and condemnation from various public figures and communities, particularly among Puerto Ricans and their supporters.

Selena Gomez’s Response to the Controversy

Gomez expressed her discontent during an interview with Variety at the American French Film Festival, where she was promoting her film Emilia Perez. She stated, “I strongly disagreed with any comments that were made recently,” emphasizing her commitment to stand by her community. As someone of Mexican descent with strong ties to her heritage, Gomez’s comments highlight her advocacy for respect and understanding towards marginalized communities.

The joke made by Hinchcliffe was particularly jarring, as it included not only derogatory comments about Puerto Rico but also insensitive remarks about Latino families. Such comments have been labeled as not only racist but also disrespectful to the struggles faced by the Puerto Rican people, who continue to deal with the aftermath of natural disasters and economic hardship. In response to the growing backlash, Gomez reminded her followers of the importance of voting, asserting, “People can sometimes forget that one vote can change everything,” encouraging them to engage actively in the democratic process.

Wider Celebrity Backlash

Gomez is not alone in her condemnation of Hinchcliffe’s comments. Other celebrities, including Nicky Jam and Aubrey Plaza, have also criticized the remarks. Nicky Jam, for instance, stated he would withdraw his support for Trump, calling for respect for Puerto Rico and its people. Furthermore, actress Zoe Saldana, whose family has Puerto Rican roots, described the current political climate as concerning, advocating for leaders who truly reflect the character of their constituents.

The backlash against Hinchcliffe has been swift and widespread, with responses coming from various corners of the entertainment industry. Lawmakers have also weighed in, with Congresswoman Maria Salazar expressing her disgust over the comments and urging for a better understanding of Puerto Rico’s contributions and significance to the United States.

The Fallout from the Incident

In light of this controversy, Trump himself has distanced his campaign from Hinchcliffe’s remarks, stating he did not know the comedian and emphasizing that rally organizers often do not vet their performers. This statement, however, does little to quell the anger felt by those who believe such jokes are not only harmful but indicative of broader societal issues regarding race and representation.

This incident has reignited discussions about the portrayal of Puerto Ricans in media and the necessity for sensitivity in comedic contexts, especially during politically charged events like Trump’s rally.

More On Selena Gomez

Selena Gomez has returned to her roots as she steps back into the role of Alex Russo in the reboot of the classic Disney show, Wizards of Waverly Place. This revival is generating considerable excitement among fans who fondly remember the original series, which was a significant part of their childhood.

ALSO READ: Selena Gomez and David Henrie Revive Disney’s Magic with Wizards Beyond Waverly Place Reboot

The reboot aims to capture the essence of the original while updating the storyline for contemporary viewers. Gomez’s portrayal of Alex Russo, a young wizard navigating the challenges of adolescence and family dynamics, resonated with many, and her return is seen as a chance to rekindle that connection.

For more updates on Selena Gomez and her advocacy, tune in to Vviptimes.