Hurricane Maria’s devastation in late 2017 inflicted profound economic, social, and infrastructural damage on Puerto Rico, overwhelming local authorities and exacerbating existing vulnerabilities. Ill-equipped hospitals and limited resources hindered recovery efforts, leading to significant out-migration driven by a lack of basic necessities. Preceding the hurricane, Puerto Rico’s economy faced historical challenges compounded by colonialism’s effects, with initiatives like Acts 20 and 22 widening socioeconomic disparities. Media portrayals, particularly post-Maria, perpetuated negative stereotypes of Puerto Ricans, influencing public perception and reinforcing harmful narratives within the Latino community. While tourism offered economic opportunities, it also exacerbated inequalities and gentrification, exacerbating migration imbalances and perpetuating power imbalances rooted in colonial legacies. Addressing these systemic issues is crucial for Puerto Rico’s recovery and resilience, necessitating efforts to combat colonialism, redistribute resources equitably, and challenge negative media portrayals for a more inclusive and sustainable future.