Albany, New York – Assemblyman Marcos A. Crespo, Chair of the Assembly Puerto Rican/Hispanic Task Force, today released the following statement on the objectionable comments made by film-star Tony Plana during his keynote address at the Somos Gala.

“The great success of the 28th annual conference of the Assembly Puerto Rican/Hispanic Task Force this past weekend was slightly tainted by the offensive remarks of Tony Plana; the film star who delivered the Gala’s keynote address.

Mr. Plana is an accomplished film and television personality with a long professional career which includes his starring as Ignacio Suarez, the widowed father to America Ferrera’s Ugly Betty, in ABC’s landmark, groundbreaking hit series for which he received the 2006 Golden Satellite Award from the International Press Academy and an Alma Award nomination for best supporting actor in a television comedy.

He was invited by the Somos el Futuro, Inc. Board of Directors to speak to over 2000 attendees of the Gala, in what we thought would be enlightening and entertaining remarks. Unfortunately, Mr. Palan’s speech became an ongoing set of pejoratives that were considered misogynist, anti-Catholic and endorsement of hurtful stereotypes.

I want to make it clear to our conference attendees and supporters that those comments are not in any way a reflection of the values and mission of the Task Force or of Somos el Futuro, Inc. While his remarks were unpleasant and insulting to many, the overall work and focus of both these organizations is to improve Latino community and the quality of life of its residents.”