LOS ANGELES (OBSNews.com) – Senator Gilbert Cedillo (D-Los Angeles), Chair of the California Latino Legislative Caucus, issued the following statement on CNN’s abrupt decision to remove Lou Dobbs from the cable news network’s programming. Dobbs announced during his show on Wednesday, November 11 that it would be his last appearance on the network.

“I commend CNN for responding to the millions of Americans who, over nearly a decade, have requested accountability for the hate speech, falsehoods, and personal political rhetoric that Dobbs has presented as news.

"This style of hate speech and ‘rhetoric as news’ undermines the greatness of a free democratic society. When hateful rhetoric is legitimized as news on a national, indeed an international, platform it creates an environment of fear, discrimination and in the worst cases, it results in violent acts against those being persecuted.

"For Latinos in particular Dobbs’ angry outbursts on immigration, the immigrant contribution to our nation, and our shared border with Mexico were a constant nemesis. He positioned Latinos at odds with reality – which is a culture that holds a deep respect for the Untied States, seeks constantly a means to contribute to society through their work and communities and given the opportunity, would eagerly comply with the law to obtain immigration status.

"Lou Dobbs’ dismissal should confirm the collective power of individuals to alter the course of injustice.”

Senator Cedillo carried a Senate Concurrent Resolution this year condemning the increase of hate speech in the media, particularly against Latinos, and calling for accurate and fair reporting to counter hate speech on television, radio, cable, and the Internet. Cedillo has championed equality issues among immigrants, the homeless, and veterans throughout his career.

California State Senator Gilbert Cedillo (D – Los Angeles) represents the 22nd Senate district of California.