The Development & Government Relations Committee voted to approve a resolution condemning a derogatory comment made at a political rally that targeted Puerto Rico and Puerto Rican people.

Councilor Anderson Burgos introduced the resolution and read it into the record. The draft resolution cites the council’s representation of the largest per-capita Puerto Rican population outside Puerto Rico and calls the comment "insulting, ignorant, and dismissive of the culture and contributions of Puerto Ricans." The resolution names the speaker and the date and location of the rally (an October 27, 2024 event at Madison Square Garden) and calls on the City Council to condemn the remark and to hold state and federal leaders accountable.

"As an elected official, I get into conversations about this so-call comedian, and people will say, ‘oh, don't take it serious. It was just a joke.’ But... I am about to turn 55, and growing up, I heard enough jokes about Puerto Ricans," Councilor Anderson Burgos said, urging the council to stand with residents.

Councilors asked to be added as signatories; Councilor Devine asked that the resolution be run in the Holyoke Sun for broader public visibility. The committee voted to approve the resolution and add sponsors; members voted in favor and the measure will be transmitted as a formal resolution for the full council to adopt as written.

The committee framed the resolution as a statement of community values and a reminder that public officials and candidates should not tolerate demeaning language toward constituents.