Yulissa Escobar is reflecting on her past and apologizing for using racial slurs after being dumped from the Love Island USA villa.
Days after Yulissa entered the villa for Season 7 of the Peacock dating reality series, the former Islander is breaking her silence on why she was removed from the show.
“First, I want to apologize for using a word I had no right in using,” she said in a statement on Instagram. “Podcast clips from years ago have recently resurfaced, and I want to address it directly.”
She continued, “In those clips, I used a word I never should’ve used, a racial slur. I used it ignorantly, not fully understanding the weight, history, or pain behind it. I wasn’t trying to be offensive or harmful, but I recognize now that intention doesn’t excuse impact. And the impact of that word is real. It’s tied to generations of trauma, and it is not mine to use.”
At the time, I was speaking casually in conversation, not thinking deeply or critically about what I was saying. But that doesn’t take away from how wrong it was. The truth is, I didn’t know better then, but I do now. I’ve taken the time to reflect, to learn, and to grow from that moment.
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I’ve changed a lot since then, not just in how I speak, but in how I show up, how I carry myself, and how I honor the experiences of others. Growth means recognizing when you were wrong, even if it’s uncomfortable, and choosing to move forward with humility and accountability.
There have also been fake statements circulating, things written or said by others that don’t reflect me or my heart. I want to clarify that this is my voice and my words. I don’t need anyone to speak for me. I’m choosing to speak for myself because I take full ownership of my actions. Do not listen to the fake statements. This is my official statement. This is me, speaking directly to you.
To those who are disappointed or offended, I understand and I apologize.
I am sorry.
Yulissa Escobar
