Zoe Saldana on Anti-Immigrant Hate: ‘You Can’t Kill Us, You Can’t Send Us Back'
In a new interview, actress Zoe Saldana had some strong words about anti-immigrant rhetoric and the hate the Latino community has been enduring at the hands of politicians lately.
Saldana appeared on the cover of the December 2015/January 2016 issue of Latina Magazine, and while her photo shoot was stunning, her words are making a far greater impact.
When asked what she would say to the people who are scared of the "Latinization" of the U.S., Saldana was very vocal and firm with her answer.
"You can't kill us. You can't send us back. We are millions and millions here because it is our time to migrate," she said. "We are the youngest culture. We are doing what your people did. So shut up and just deal with it. Adjust your laws, because it's not going away. If anything, I want to give them a hug, and say, 'It's okay. It's new. Don't be scared. We're great people. We're gonna do great and better things for your country. Trust me.' We're not angry either. We're a culture that isn't angry."
The actress, who shared images of her photo shoot on Instagram, explained that discussing immigration is hard for her. She said she is tired of being angry about the issue and doesn't believe a word of the hurtful comments about the Latino community.
The 37-year-old, who is of Dominican and Puerto Rican descent, explained that she is sad to see people on television spreading hate when their ancestors were immigrants as well and experienced acculturation.
"I'm kind of embarrassed when you see all of these people talking on national television, and it's like, 'Oh my God, if your grandfather were alive today, when he came here from Ireland, from Italy, escaped the f*cking war in Russia. You're rotting his name to shame," she said. "It doesn't matter how much money you have, or how many degrees from Ivy League schools. You're such a bigot. You're such a hick right now.'"
The "Star Trek" star also made sure to point out that the only true Americans are the Native Americans. Everyone else has gone through what Latinos are currently experiencing, but people forget or choose to ignore it, Saldana said.
Subscribe to Latin Post!
Sign up for our free newsletter for the Latest coverage!