In a world increasingly divided by hate and prejudice, comedian Tony Hinchcliffe’s recent remarks at a Trump rally in New York City remind us of the urgency with which we must confront racist ideologies.

His comments, which describe Puerto Rico as a “floating garbage island” and perpetuate harmful stereotypes about Latinos, are not just misguided jokes, they reflect a larger societal problem that requires a robust response from the church. As Christians, we are challenged to stand firm against such divisive rhetoric, guided by our faith and the example of those who have spoken out against injustice before us.

Rosaly Guzman

The moving words of Martin Niemöller resonates deeply in this context:

First they came for the socialists, and I did not speak, because I was not a socialist.

Then they came for the trade unionists, and I did not speak, because I was not a trade unionist.

Then they came after the Jews, and I did not speak, because I was not a Jew.

Then they came after me and there was no one left to speak for me.

These lines serve as a haunting reminder of the consequences of silence in the face of oppression. Niemöller, a German pastor, initially failed to speak out against the rising tide of Nazism, only to find himself among the persecuted when he finally understood the implications of his inaction. As a church, we must heed this lesson, recognizing that the unchecked enabling of hate speech inevitably leads to a culture in which all marginalized voices are at risk.

“Unchecked enabling of hate speech inevitably leads to a culture where all marginalized voices are at risk.”

The Bible calls us to love our neighbor as ourselves (Mark 12:31), a commandment that extends to all people, regardless of their nationality or ethnicity. The apostle Paul writes in Galatians 3:28 that in Christ there is neither Jew, nor Gentile, nor slave, nor free, nor male and female, for we are all one in Christ Jesus. This radical equality challenges us to reject any ideology that seeks to divide or dehumanize individuals based on their origins.

When we come across statements like those made by Hinchcliffe, we must remember our duty as Christians to speak out against hate. Ephesians 4:29 admonishes us not to let any unwholesome talk come out of our mouths, but only what is helpful to build others up according to their needs. Racist remarks don’t just harm individuals; they erode the fabric of community and sow seeds of division that can lead to violence and discrimination in the real world.

Silence in the face of such comments encourage those who perpetuate hatred. It sends a message that such rhetoric is acceptable, or at least tolerable. This is particularly dangerous in a climate where marginalized groups are already vulnerable. As Christians, we are called to be salt and light in the world (Matthew 5:13-16), illuminating the truth and preserving the dignity of every human being.

If we remain silent now, we risk normalizing a culture of racism and discrimination that may spiral out of control. As Niemöller’s quote illustrates, the consequences of inaction eventually catch up with us all. When we allow a group to be dehumanized, we set a precedent that can easily be turned against others, including ourselves.

“When we allow a group to be dehumanized, we set a precedent that can easily be turned against others, including ourselves.”

The church must actively counter toxic narratives that devalue individuals based on their ethnicity. This requires intentionality in our teachings, community outreach, and engagement with broader societal issues. Romans 12:2 encourages us not to be conformed to the pattern of this world, but to be transformed by the renewing of our minds. This transformation is necessary to cultivate a culture of compassion and understanding in our congregations.

Engaging in open dialogues about race, privilege and justice within our church communities can be a vital step toward fostering an environment where everyone feels valued and heard. In addition, supporting initiatives that advocate for the rights and dignity of marginalized groups, such as immigrants, can further demonstrate our commitment to living the love of Christ.

As Christians, we cannot afford to be passive observers in a world filled with division and hatred. We are called to action, to stand up for those who cannot stand up for themselves (Proverbs 31:8). The church must boldly confront racism and hate speech, recognizing that our silence amounts to complicity.

In light of Hinchcliffe’s recent remarks, let us remember our duty to speak out against injustice. Let’s echo Niemöller’s words and say, “Not under my watch.” We must foster a community that elevates all individuals, celebrating our differences as reflections of God’s diverse creation.

The church has a vital role to play in combating racism and fostering understanding among all people. By speaking out against hateful rhetoric, we embody the love of Christ, affirming that every person is made in the image of God (Genesis 1:27) and deserves respect and dignity.

Let us take up this mantle with courage and compassion, ensuring that when the next wave of hate rises, we are ready to stand firm and speak for those who cannot speak for themselves. Together, we can build a more just and loving society by living the commandment to love our neighbor as ourselves. We never know, one day it could be us.

Rosaly Guzman is a teacher, speaker and life coach. She holds a master’s degree in theology and is working on a doctorate in ministry. She serves at Crosslife Church in Oviedo, Fla. in women’s ministry.

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