Biden made the remarks Monday during a conference in San Antonio for the Latin American civil rights advocacy organization UnidosUS, where he commented on the diversity of the community and the work of Raul Yzaguirre, the former president and CEO of the United States. ‘organization that last week was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’ s highest civilian honor.
“Raul helped build this organization with the understanding that the diversity of this community, as different as the Bronx wineries, as beautiful as Miami flowers and as unique as the breakfast tacos here in San Antonio, is the your strength. ”Biden said, mispronouncing the word“ winery ”.
“The first lady apologizes because her words conveyed anything but pure admiration and love for the Latino community,” said Michael LaRosa, a spokesman for the first lady.
In a statement Monday, the National Association of Hispanic Journalists called on the first lady and her speech writing team “to take the time in the future to better understand the complexities of our people and communities,” and went add, “We’re not tacos.” , “and” don’t reduce us to stereotypes “.
CNN has contacted the First Lady’s office for comment.
CNN’s Nicole Chavez, who was in the room for the first lady’s speech, reports that Biden’s comments – citing examples of pieces from Latin life – were received with encouragement in the full conference room. In his speech, Biden also spoke about the bipartisan gun legislation signed by the president and the tragedy in Uvalde, Texas, which is about 100 miles west of San Antonio.
He then spoke of the diversity within the Latin community, but also of their common desires.
“Yes, the Latino community is unique. But what I’ve heard from you over and over again is that you want what all families want. Good schools. Good jobs. Safe neighborhoods,” Biden said.
She also promoted her husband’s efforts to increase Latin representation within the government.
“He has appointed Latinos to the highest positions in his cabinet. He made sure that legislation like the American Rescue Plan focuses on equity. His team worked with all of you, United and many of the affiliates here today, to vaccinate. Latinos., fight hunger and invest in your small businesses “.