By Tim Saunders on May 4, 2010
Ricky Martin and Shakira are just two of the stars protesting against controversial new anti-immigration laws in Arizona.
The new law – signed on April 23 – allows police to question any individuals they suspect are illegal immigrants, and all legal immigrants are required to carry registration documents at all times.
“The SB 1070 is a law that doesn’t make sense,” Ricky told the audience at the Billboard Latin Music Awards. “You are not alone. We are with you. Stop discrimination. Stop hate. Stop racism. Enough already. Long live love. Long live peace.”
“As a Latina, I’m very concerned how this law can impact working Hispanic families,” he continued on Ryan Seacrest’s radio show. “I think that being detained in the street just because of the color of your skin is just wrong, and it’s a violation of human and civil rights.”
Shakira took a step further by meeting with the Phoenix Mayor Phil Gordon over the matter: “I just met with some families and women who have been subjected to domestic violence, and they are so concerned. They’re going to live in fear to call the police or to report a crime that has been inflicted to them. They’re trying to protect their kids and their own families from abusers. and now they’re going to have to protect themselves from the government.”
“Shakira is deeply concerned about the impact of this law on hard-working Latino families,” explained her spokesman Trevor Nielson. “She went to Arizona to try to learn more about how law enforcement is reacting to this and how we can ensure that people in the state of Arizona are not being picked on because of the color of their skin.”
Other stars to protest over the law include Eva Longoria, George Lopez and Family Guy creator Seth MacFarlane.
almost 2 years ago
I thank you Ricky Martin and Shakira for coming forward in protest of the obvious discrimination against the Latino community. Just turn on the news the hate is growing and spreading to other states as well. It is time that all Latinos take a stand. It is a shame that you are the only two along with Goria Esteban that came forward. You guys aren’t even Mexicans but you have enough sense to realize that this affects all Latinos. I'm outraged that as many Latino Celebrities we have here in Hollywood not more stepped up. I thank God for Rev Al Sharpten he was outraged enough to step up on our behalf. He stepped up right away! He didn't have to think twice he just took action and he is Black not even Latino! With the resources and voices Latino celebrities have here in Hollywood they could have easily made a big impact with the media instead they stayed silent and did nothing! It is a shame that more celebrity Latino's like George Lopez, Oscar Delahoya, Cheech Marin, Eva Langora, Jessica Alba, Edward Almos, Carlos Santana, and a host of others that will be at this years Alma awards did not lend there voice in support as well. There Hispanic too! We need to stop the hate and discrimination that is happening now! We can't stand alone. ”United we stand divided we fall”! What we need is an organized event that will send the message loud and clear that we won't tolerate this kind of discrimination! We need a voice like yours George. You have a big Latino following. We buy out your comedy shows and tune in to watch your TV show in support of you. Why are you not giving the same support back to us? Is it that you are to busy on the golf course or at the Lakers games with your new found celebrity friends to even care or make a difference? You should be outraged! You and your Latino celebrity friends run to help Africa and other countries when they need help but when you’re on people need it you act like your ashamed! Why don't you and your friends organize something big for Latino heritage month when all Latinos will all be in town for the Almas? We need your help! Do you remember you’re Latino and your skin is brown? You member! Big ups to Al Sharpten!
Add your comment →