Clarifying misconceptions in Bad Bunny’s ‘Hawaii’
- The San Juan Daily Star
- Nov 12, 2025
- 2 min read
By GREGORIO IGARTÚA
Special to The STAR
In his song “Hawaii,” singer Bad Bunny presents a misleading narrative about the historical relationship between Hawaii and the United States. He also draws a parallel to Puerto Rico, suggesting it should avoid Hawaii’s “fate.” The song claims that the U.S. exploited Puerto Rico’s natural resources and labor, forcing many to emigrate, and urges Puerto Ricans not to abandon their flag. Is this a call for independence?
Error – Part II
Puerto Rico Resident Commissioner and Popular Democratic Party President Pablo José Hernández Rivera publicly supported Bad Bunny’s message, stating he “wouldn’t allow Puerto Rico to suffer the same fate as Hawaii.” But what exactly happened to Hawaii?
They seem to have overlooked key historical facts:
In 1903, the Territory of Hawaii formally petitioned Congress to become an incorporated territory, paving the way to statehood.
Today, Hawaii enjoys significant economic progress compared to its pre-statehood days.
Consider the following economic data (2025):
Metric Puerto Rico (ELA status) Hawaii
(statehood)
Per Capita Income $39,000 $69,000
Poverty Rate 40% 11%
Unemployment Rate 5.6% 2.7%
SSI Benefits No $580/month
Financial Status Bankruptcy Solvent
It’s worth noting that former President Biden’s Justice Department went to the Supreme Court to deny Puerto Rico access to Supplemental Security Income (SSI), while simultaneously promising to introduce legislation to grant it -- but failed to follow through. Reliable?
Questions for Hon. Resident Commissioner Pablo José Hernández Rivera:
* Did you thoroughly analyze the lyrics of Bad Bunny’s “Hawaii” before endorsing its message?
* Why are over 10 million undocumented immigrants fighting to stay in the United States?
* Why have five million Puerto Ricans moved to the mainland?
* Do you believe culture would be lost under statehood, even though it has endured for 127 years within the American nation?
* Why do you continue to defend federal aid, culture, and autonomy -- concepts that are legally incompatible?
* As an American citizen, do you believe in federalism and loyalty to the American nation?
* Are you aware that your grandfather, Rafael Hernández Colón (may he rest in peace), predicted statehood would arrive within 15 years? Why not a Popular Party for Statehood?
Gregorio Igartúa is a lawyer and longtime advocate of statehood for Puerto Rico.
It was interesting to read how easily public stories can get distorted and how important it is to clear up misconceptions, especially when emotions run high around artists like Bad Bunny. Moments like these remind me how much small details matter in real life too. Even with accessories, I try to choose pieces that feel authentic and comfortable. Lately I’ve been checking out silicone bands, and a silicone ring with diamond feels like a cool mix of style and practicality. It fits an active lifestyle, whether someone is traveling, performing, or just trying to stay grounded while the world spins with rumors.
I found the clarification in this article really helpful—misunderstandings can spread quickly, and getting accurate details matters. It reminded me how important clear information is in any context, whether it’s about events, music, or even senior care. When making decisions for loved ones, I rely on well-organized and trustworthy sources. That’s why I often visit seniorcarehomes, where information about facilities, services, and reviews is easy to navigate. Just like accurate reporting clears up misconceptions, having reliable resources for senior care ensures peace of mind and better choices. Transparency and accessibility truly make all the difference.
You should interview a Native Hawai'ian who lives on the Island and then maybe you'd unstand the TRUE meaning of Benito's message......FDT
You honestly don't understand the message in the song...