Call To Action: Puerto Rico Democracy Act
Wrote this for the PRSSA:
Democracy is at the very heart of what America stands for. With H.R. 2499—the Puerto Rico Democracy Act—that spirit of self-determination will have an opportunity to shine as the House of Representatives will soon vote on this immensely important bill. After 112 years of political uncertainty, H.R. 2499 seeks to resolve Puerto Rico’s status problem once and for all. With its passage, it would provide for a plebiscite giving the people of Puerto Rico the choice between maintaining the current status, or opting for a new one. If a majority of voters choose a change in status, a second plebiscite will be held in which voters will be given three options: Independence, Associated Sovereignty, or Statehood.
The present political reality of Puerto Rico as a mere colony is wholly unacceptable. A 2007 White House report reaffirmed Puerto Rico’s colonial status as part of the territorial clause which undemocratically subjects the people of Puerto Rico (who are American citizens under the plenary powers of Congress) to the will of Congress. Under this clause, Congress could unilaterally terminate the current relationship without the consent of the Puerto Rican people. This is the reality opponents of the bill refuse to accept. This is the reason voters would be asked to keep or reject the current status before choosing between legitimate options.
Because we love and believe in America, the PRSSA will be hosting a series of events this week in support of H.R. 2499. We extend our hand and invite you to join us in the cause for equality. And it all begins Tuesday at 10am at the Capitol South Station. We will hold a march trough congressional office buildings to distribute informational material and add uncommitted votes to the “YES” column. There will also be rally calling for approval of the bill on Thursday at 11am at the Triangle in front of the Capitol.
Please CALL YOUR CONGRESSMAN if you can’t make it.
The time is now. History is now. And you are part of it. Please join us!
See you then!
