Biden made the comments Monday during a conference in San Antonio for the Latin American civil rights and advocacy organization UnidosUS, where she commented on the diversity of the community and the work of Raul Izaguirre, the organization’s former president and CEO, who last week was awarded the presidential the Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian award.
“Raul helped build this organization with the understanding that the diversity of this community — as diverse as a bodega in the Bronx, as beautiful as the colors of Miami, and as unique as breakfast tacos here in San Antonio — is your strength,” Biden said as he mispronounced the word “bodega”.
“The first lady apologizes that her words expressed anything but pure admiration and love for the Hispanic community,” said Michael LaRosa, the first lady’s spokesman.
In a statement Monday, the National Association of Hispanic Journalists urged the first lady and her speechwriting team to “take time in the future to better understand the complexities of our people and communities,” adding, “We are not tacos,” and “don’t reduce us to stereotypes”.
CNN has reached out to 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 — which cited examples from Latin American life — were met with cheers in the packed conference room. In his speech, Biden also discussed the bipartisan gun legislation signed by the president and the tragedy in Uvalde, Texas, which is about 100 miles west of San Antonio.
She then spoke about the diversity within the Latino community, but also about their common desires.
“Yes, the Hispanic 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 touted her husband’s efforts to increase Latino representation in government.
“He appointed Latinos to the highest positions in his cabinet. He made sure that legislation like the US bailout focused on fairness. His team is working with all of you – Unidos and so many affiliates here today – to vaccinate Latinos, fight hunger and invest in your small businesses.”
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