Obama pledges self-determination to Puerto Rico – with independence as an option

Dear Gov. Acevedo Vila:

Puerto Rico is a vitally important part of our country and Puerto Ricans have made immeasurable contributions to the United States. As president of the United States, I will pay close attention to issues that have an impact on the well-being of the people of Puerto Rico.

Puerto Rico’s status must be based on the principle of self-determination. Puerto Rico has a proud history, an extraordinary culture, its own traditions, customs and language, and a distinct identity. As president, I will work closely with the Puerto Rican government, its civil society and with Congress to create a genuine and transparent process for self-determination that will be true to the best traditions of democracy. As president, I will actively engage Congress and the Puerto Rican people in promoting this deliberative, open and unbiased process, that may include a constitutional convention or a plebiscite, and my administration will adhere to a policy of strict neutrality on Puerto Rican status matters. My administration will recognize all valid options to resolve the question of Puerto Rico’s status, including commonwealth, statehood and independence.”*

*From: http://www.sfbayview.com
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