Controversy continues to surround Donald Trump’s comments portraying Mexican immigrants as criminals and rapists, but the women taking part in the upcoming Miss USA pageant are being diplomatic in their responses to the matter.
The Associated Press spoke with contestant Natasha Martinez regarding the comments.
Martinez, whose mother emigrated to the United States from Nicaragua, will represent California in the pageant.
She said, “it was hard to hear.”
The Californian added, “it’s important to understand that immigrants come here looking for a better life.”
Lupita Jones, pageant director for Miss Mexico and Miss Universe for 1991 said Mexico would boycott Miss Universe.
She said Trump damaged the pageant and its tradition of convening countries for an event that showcases “friendship, unity and breaking down cultural barriers.”
