April 30, 2010
Ricky Martin criticizes Arizona's immigration law
Kilian Melloy READ TIME: 1 MIN.
Singer Ricky Martin joined in the criticism of Arizona's new law that will allow police to stop anyone they think might be an illegal immigrant.
Appearing at the Billboard Latin Music Awards ceremony Thursday, Martin said the law "makes no sense," and he urged an end to discrimination, hate and racism.
"Long live love, long live peace," he told the audience at the award show in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
Martin received a standing ovation when he walked on stage, making one of his first public appearances since announcing he is gay.
"This is not in the script," he said as he launched into his criticism.
"You are not alone. We are with you," Martin said. "Put a stop to discrimination. Put a stop to hate. Put a stop to racism."
Mexican pop singer Paulina Rubio also criticized the law, as did Larry Hernandez, who won Latin Artist of the Year and said he began his career in Phoenix.
"It's regrettable that they are discriminating against us for the simple fact of looking Latino. It's not fair. We have to say no to that law," Hernandez said.
Kilian Melloy serves as EDGE Media Network's Associate Arts Editor and Staff Contributor. His professional memberships include the National Lesbian & Gay Journalists Association, the Boston Online Film Critics Association, The Gay and Lesbian Entertainment Critics Association, and the Boston Theater Critics Association's Elliot Norton Awards Committee.
