This week in class and throughout reading we discussed Puerto Rico and the annexation of Puerto Rico during the Spanish-American War. Along with other territories such as the Philippines and Cuba, Puerto Rico remains one of the final, large areas of land that still is held as a territory of the United States. In actuality, Puerto Rico is the largest insular territory owned by the United States today.
So, the question remains, why the United States has not admitted Puerto Rico into the Union? Especially, if you consider the fact that in a referendum in the country in 2012, the majority (61%) support becoming a state. This issue has been hotly contested for some time now.
On the side of adding Puerto Rico as a state, various benefits can clearly be seen. As a territory, Puerto Rico has no representation in Congress, but as a state they would finally be able to see themselves in our national government. Moreover, they would more easily solve their debt and credit crisis as a state, as instead of defaulting on debt, companies in Puerto Rico would be able to file for Bankruptcy.
However, as a state, harms will also come Puerto Rico’s way. First, we see that greater tourism caused by Puerto Rico’s statehood could cause cultural appropriation and evasive species. Right now, Puerto Rico is able to maintain their borders, but as a state, they may not have that power. Furthermore, entering as a state could result in greater racism and discrimination for Puerto Ricans.
In the end, adding a 51st state will always be controversial, whether we’re adding the territory of Puerto Rico or the District of Columbia. Out of all the benefits and harms stated above, one question will always still remain — if we had a 51st state where will the star go?
This is a very interesting post. While growing up, most people don't even know that territories like Puerto Rico or Guam are still part of the US, they just know the 50 states. Adding Puerto Rico as a state would be complicated not only because of the fact that so many speak Spanish, but also geographically it doesn't even touch the United States. Nevertheless, it will be interesting to see what the title of this territory ends up being within the next couple decades.
ReplyDelete