Donald Trump is calling out the reigning Miss Universe for being "a hypocrite."
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"I find Mr. Trump's comments unjust and hurtful. As a Colombian and Miss Universe, I want to show my support and validate the sentiments of the Latin community," Vega captioned an Instagram photo of the sash she had won in the 2014 Miss Universe pageant, which is in part owned by Trump.
"The Miss Universe Organization works independently from its owners. For the past 64 years, they have created partnerships with great charity groups and have helped thousands of communities. Their legacy of uniting countries from around the world has been inspiring to many. If the Miss Universe Organization shared any anti-Latin sentiments or any type of racial biases, I wouldn't be in this position today."
In the speech Trump delivered to kick off his 2016 presidential campaign several weeks ago, he characterized many undocumented Mexican immigrants who enter the United States as druglords, criminals and rapists. His harsh remarks prompted many people and companies to distance themselves from him and any brands tied to his name.
For example, Univision and NBC dropped the Miss USA pageant from its airing schedule, and Macy's intends to phase out Trump's menswear line from its stores. Trump has since filed a $500 million lawsuit against Univision and also threatens to sue NBC.
"I strongly believe that dividing and categorizing humankind only holds it back," Vega continued. "Acknowledging and embracing the differences that exist across humanity is the first step in real and substantial development. We must strive together in order to improve the common good."
Trump, the 69-year-old star of The Celebrity Apprentice, slammed Vega two days later by writing she's "a hypocrite" on Twitter.
About The Author: Elizabeth Kwiatkowski
