The U.S. presidential election is less than a week away, one of the most consequential in recent history. We expect candidates to have differences, sometimes vigorous disagreements, on important issues in our nation. But we must denounce language that foments hatred and incites violence.
The egregious, racist statements made at a recent political rally by a comic and others, especially those disparaging the people of Puerto Rico, are part of a pattern of dehumanizing language about people of color, immigrants and women.
Dismissing the language as “just a joke” does not undo the damage done to those groups and to the entire country. The insults are evil masquerading as humor.
This behavior is beneath the dignity of the high office at stake in this election. It is especially concerning because historically Latina women and women of color have been hurt and oppressed by a system that is deeply rooted in race, gender and class.
History shows that this kind of hateful rhetoric has been intentionally used to fracture societies and turn groups against each other to provoke war, genocide, race riots and violent escalation. We reject this incitement to division.
At this critical moment, we ask you to pray for wisdom for our leaders and voters. We encourage all citizens regardless of political affiliation to vote and use their voice for the common good.
In the coming days we invite you to reflect on our Mercy values that respect the humanity of all. We are committed to the Gospel that welcomes the stranger, defends the weak, protects women and above all refutes violence in all its forms.