Celebrating Puerto Rico at the Super Bowl

The halftime show at the recent Super Bowl was more than music; it became a cultural spotlight for Puerto Rico. In just 13 minutes, the performer used dance, songs and visual symbols to share his island’s history, its beauty and its ongoing struggles. A stage that usually feels like a solo performance turned into a community celebration, inviting fans of all backgrounds to see the richness of Puerto Rican life. The set featured images of sugar‑cane fields, a reminder that the island’s fertile land has long supported hardworking people despite colonial pressures. The performer also highlighted everyday Puerto Ricans—from a taco shop owner in California to a social club matriarch in Brooklyn—showing that the island’s influence is everywhere in America.One memorable moment was when two couples sealed their vows during the show, with the performer acting as a witness. This personal touch reminded viewers that love and unity are part of the narrative. The lighting on utility poles also carried meaning, pointing to the power issues that persist after Hurricane Maria. Audience numbers were huge: more than 135 million people tuned in, the largest viewership for a halftime show to date. Many viewers praised how the performance brought together people of different races and backgrounds, turning a commercial event into a shared experience of joy. However, some viewers chose to ignore the show’s message, preferring to focus on other content. Their decision reflected broader social tensions and a resistance to embracing multicultural representation. Yet the event still managed to spread a message of togetherness, illustrated by a bold sign that read “Together, we are America. ”