The Holyoke City Council took a strong stand against derogatory remarks made about Puerto Ricans during a recent political rally, passing a resolution to condemn the statement as offensive and disrespectful. This decision, made during the Development and Government Relations Committee meeting on January 13, 2024, reflects the council's commitment to protecting the dignity of its community, which has the highest concentration of Puerto Ricans outside the island.

The resolution specifically addresses comments made by comedian Tony Hinchcliffe at a Trump rally on October 27, 2024, which were deemed insulting and dismissive of Puerto Rican culture. Councilor Anderson Burgos emphasized the harmful impact of such jokes, particularly on children growing up in Holyoke, stating, "We've had enough of those jokes." He called for unity and respect, reinforcing that civil discourse should not include degrading remarks about anyone's identity.

The council's resolution not only condemns the remarks but also commits to holding state and federal leaders accountable for their actions and words. Councilor Devine suggested publicizing the resolution in local media to ensure broader awareness and support.

In addition to this significant resolution, the council discussed a communication from Mayor Garcia regarding the emotional impact of recent presidential election results on the community. The mayor urged residents to remain united and focused on collaboration, despite the divisive nature of political discourse.

The meeting also touched on housing issues, with a resolution in support of eviction sealing aimed at promoting housing opportunities. The council plans to invite advocacy groups to discuss this topic further in an upcoming meeting.

Overall, the Holyoke City Council's actions reflect a proactive approach to fostering community respect and addressing social issues, reinforcing the importance of unity in the face of divisive rhetoric.