This Saturday marks the centennial of the U.S. invasion of Puerto Rico.

Today we continue the documentary we began yesterday: “Puerto Rico: Reflections on the Oldest Colony.” Just four months ago, the controversial Young Bill was passed by the House of Representatives, which once again has drawn attention to the debate over statehood, independence, or an expanded form of commonwealth for Puerto Rico. The bill, sponsored by Alaska Republican Don Young, calls for a plebiscite to be held in Puerto Rico later this year to determine the island’s future status.

“Puerto Rico: Reflections on the Oldest Colony” is an attempt to make sense of what all these disparate issues mean for the people of Puerto Rico, and for the United States. It includes interviews with many of the most visible leaders in Puerto Rico today, including the pro-Statehood governor, Pedro Rosello, Puerto Rican independence leader Juan Mari Bras, Puerto Rican Congressmember Nydia Velasquez, and many others.

Tape:

• “Puerto Rico: Reflections on the Oldest Colony” is produced by Mario Murillo, host of Pacifica Radio’s “Our Americas.” Call: (212) 209-2978. Send e-mail.

Related link:

• 7/22/98 Democracy Now!- “Puerto Rico: Reflections on the Oldest Colony”

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