Hundreds of New Yorkers, joined by Lt. Gov. Brian Benjamin and Democratic mayoral nominee Eric Adams, came together on 106th Street to put a spotlight on the critical issues Puerto Rico is facing.

The Silent Procession for Puerto Rico started after Hurricane Maria devastated the island. It was to bring awareness to the natural disasters and the lack of support from the U.S. government.

“Instead of getting words of compassion, what we got was total disrespect, paper towels thrown at us,” says founder Carmen Cruz. “We are USA citizens and we have been USA citizens since 1917.”

Attendees dressed in white to symbolize peace and love. They are calling on the U.S. government to provide the same human rights to Puerto Ricans as they do to all U.S. citizens.

“We have to hold this government accountable in treating us as equally as all USA citizens which we have not been,” says Cruz.

After the rally, attendees marched in silence from East Harlem to Grand Army Plaza in Central Park.

"The beautiful part about it being silent is because it speaks for itself,” says Lt. Gov. Benjamin. “Let's continue to act and support those who have been hurt.”

Cruz hopes the procession continues to grow as they educate and bring awareness to the Puerto Rican culture.