Connecticut Puerto Rican and Latino Caucus Condemns Disrespectful Conduct in House Chamber

[Negron, Alberto]

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Connecticut Puerto Rican and Latino Caucus Condemns Disrespectful Conduct in House Chamber

Hartford, CT — The Connecticut Puerto Rican and Latino Caucus strongly condemns the actions of Republican Representative Cara Pavalock-Damato of Bristol, who on the opening day of the 2026 Legislative Session entered the House Chamber wearing a jacket emblazoned with the words “ICE IN,” posed mockingly for photographs, and posted those images on social media.

The House Chamber is not a venue for political provocation or personal theatrics. It is the people’s House, and members are entrusted with upholding its dignity and conducting themselves with respect toward colleagues and the communities they represent. Representative Pavalock-Damato’s actions fell far short of that standard.

For Latino, immigrant, and minority communities across Connecticut, ICE is not a symbolic or abstract issue. It represents fear, trauma, and the real pain of family separation. To deliberately display that symbol in a mocking manner within the House Chamber was deeply offensive and sent a hostile message to Latino legislators and other members of this body.

This was not an act of policy debate. It was a calculated display meant to provoke and demean, undermining the sense of mutual respect that is essential to a functioning democratic institution. Such conduct has no place in the Connecticut General Assembly.

“The House Chamber should be a space where all elected officials feel respected and where serious work on behalf of the people of Connecticut can take place,” said Representative Minnie Gonzalez, President of the Connecticut Puerto Rican and Latino Caucus. “When a member uses that space to mock and intimidate communities that have already experienced harm, it crosses a clear and unacceptable line.”

The Connecticut Puerto Rican and Latino Caucus calls on House leadership and all members of the General Assembly to reaffirm the importance of decorum, accountability, and respect within the chamber. Connecticut residents deserve leadership that brings people together and honors the responsibility of public service.

The Caucus remains committed to defending the dignity of Latino and immigrant communities and will continue to speak out against actions that undermine inclusion, respect, and trust in our democratic institutions.

Contact:
Office of Representative Minnie Gonzalez
President, Connecticut Puerto Rican and Latino Caucus