Washington, D.C. – On September 20, 2017, Hurricane Maria touched down in Puerto Rico, causing severe damage to the island’s infrastructure, displacing millions of people, and causing the deaths of nearly 3,000 Puerto Ricans. Today, On the disaster’s 6th anniversary, Latino Victory Fund issued the following statement.
Sindy Benavides, Executive Director of Latino Victory Fund:
“Latino Victory Fund remembers the Puerto Ricans who lost their lives and honors the survivors who have shown unwavering courage and resilience throughout rebuilding efforts in the five years since the devastation left behind by Hurricane Maria. This catastrophic event revealed long-concealed truths about Puerto Rican people’s rights as U.S. citizens that have historically been denied. As we reflect on this loss of life, it is important that Latino voters make their voices heard and elect leaders who will not exhibit the same cruel disregard for the lives of Puerto Ricans that resulted in the botched disaster response under the Trump administration. The same man who withheld $20 billion in hurricane relief, threw paper towels into a crowd of hurricane survivors, and avoided neighborhoods with the most catastrophic destruction is now running for President of the United States again. On this day of mourning, we remember the lives lost, honor the resilience of local communities, and recommit ourselves to building political power that puts Latinos at the forefront of policies and institutions that shape our country.”
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Latino Victory Fund is a progressive political action committee with the mission of growing Latino political power by increasing Latino representation at every level of government – from the school board to the Senate to the White House.
