In my examination of the Puerto Rican state of affairs regarding it's relationship to the United States, I purposely left out my assessment of the situation. The reason I did this was to first immerse my readers into the history and culture of Puerto Rico. Further explaining the complicated relationship that exists between our tiny island and our great nation.
I must first start by explaining that I am an island born Puerto Rican, of Puerto Rican parents, raised and living in the Continental United States. Most people would not understand my need in stating this. Let me explain.
First of all, not all people who claim to be Puerto Ricans are truly Puerto Rican. Being Puerto Rican to some of these lovingly adopted people means having been born off the island but having Puerto Rican parents or at least one Puerto Rican parent. To others, they migrated to Puerto Rico at an early age, and were raised in Puerto Rico all their lives. Yet others, are of a totally different nationality, in another country, but were raised by a Puerto Rican. They all have been influenced by our culture, beliefs, customs, food, music and the love and pride we feel in being Puerto Rican. And we, Puerto Ricans, lovingly embrace them into the family.
Now, what how does my current status as a "Continental" Puerto Rican have anything to do with anything? Indulge me.
Having been raised in New York City since the age of 5, mostly in Spanish Harlem, I never lost my Puerto Rican roots. Why? Because there are more Puerto Ricans in New York than there could ever fit in Puerto Rico! And because of that, I was exposed to all the influences of my culture. I was also lucky enough to travel most Christmas' back to the island with my parents. Being the only daughter of my father guaranteed that I would not be left behind.
Traveling back to the island and experiencing first hand the sounds, landscapes and family left behind, gave me a perspective that my compatriots might not have. I never lost touch. I never forgot. I never moved on. I always hoped to make a difference for my homeland. I feel the time has come.
It's a funny thing being a Puerto Rican who does not reside in Puerto Rico. Here, in the U.S., other than in South Florida, or the many vastly spread Hispanic communities, the rest of the country is mostly ignorant of the fact that Puerto Rico is an American held Colony. That Puerto Ricans are American Citizens. Or that, if I was to resident in Puerto Rico, in spite of being an American Citizen, I would not be able to vote for President.
To Puerto Ricans living on the island, I am not seen as a native. I am seen with suspicion and distrust. "What does this American want?", is what I see in their eyes and mannerisms. This is what I encountered when requesting information on my family history from my own family members.
And the question of Statehood or Independence? You best be careful where and when you bring up the subject. First thing that is thrown in your face is, "You don't live here." But guess what. I am very much vested in what status my beloved island happens to be. I want the option of perhaps one day living on the island and not losing my voting rights. Or becoming a second class citizen, because the U.S. Constitution does not fully protect me as an island resident. Or to have my future Social Security Retirement check diminished by 85% simply because I changed my zip code to one in Puerto Rico. Or of losing my American Citizenship, because my fellow islanders decide to become Independent.
For all of the above reasons and many more, I advocate that Puerto Ricans everywhere, and believe me, we are everywhere, have the right to decide what happens in Puerto Rico. I happen to believe that it is in Puerto Rico's best interest to become an American State. Our 51st State.
Most islanders have been convinced that the status of "Commonwealth", which is Puerto Rico's current status, is the lesser of two evils. That with this status, they are exempt from paying taxes and having English imposed as the only language spoken; while still benefiting from the federal programs, manufactured goods and monetary funds that emanate from the Mainland.
In actuality, island resident Puerto Ricans pay more taxes than they are willing to admit. Yes, its true, they do not pay "property taxes", but they do overpay taxes on everything they consume. Everything is imported to the island. Nothing there is produced locally. Therefore, every single item is taxed twice. One of these taxes is the tariff paid to ship the item from the Mainland to Puerto Rico. The other, is the sales tax placed on the item once it is sold to the consumer.
In Puerto Rico, English is taught, alongside Spanish, from elementary school until high school. But if anyone aspires to have a higher education, then you best pay attention to your English lessons. All educational institutions of higher learning, i.e., Universities, Medical Schools, are taught in English only.
Most Puerto Ricans don't realize that 4 billion dollars more would be allocated to the island as a State of the Union than it is today as a commonwealth.
The only thing this "Commonwealth" status has accomplished is to deny us the right to govern ourselves. Puerto Rico, as a commonwealth, does not have any representation in Congress, the Senate or the House of Representatives. This Puerto Rican commonwealth is governed by laws, that they themselves are not allowed to participate in creating. As a commonwealth, it is not allowed to vote for President.
Since, 1917, Puerto Ricans are subject to a mandatory draft. Think of the irony of being sent to war by a President that you did not elect.
This post is meant as an attachment to my three previous writings on Puerto Rico. It is my sentiment and reflection on the sad state of affairs that has come out the politicking and lack of value placed on one of the last Colonies which exists in modern times. I invite an open discussion on this subject. Let's close this border once and for all. We are tired of being treated like the "red headed step child." Make me proud to be an American no matter where I am.
*For a great blog on Puerto Rico's Best Athletes visit Scott Morganroth's Sports Blog: www.motorcitymadmouthinsights.blogspot.com or www.scottsports33@aol.com.
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