Malika Lightbourne is a Scholars Magnet for Business and Law Senior who is invesigating the effects of Puerto Rico’s territorial status on the island’s economy, government/politics, and the people. The most important aspect of her project is examining the lens through which Puerto Rico can be seen as a modern-day US colony. Colonialism is a sensitive topic for many, as it represents the exploitation of an indigenous group (native to the land) and symbolizes imperialist attitudes. It is actually classified as a crime against humanity by the United Nations. Not only is Puerto Rico isolated physically, it is also socially isolated. As an article from VOX Media stated, “only 54 percent of Americans know that Puerto Ricans are US citizens” (Barclay, Resnick; 2017). Puerto Ricans have many of the same rights as mainland US citizens, however, they are treated differently, especially by the federal government. Legally, it is a US territory, or a commonwealth. The US Government has implemented certain legislative acts that greatly limit the economic freedom and self-governing abilities of Puerto Rico. During the recent humanitarian crisis, the mayor of San Juan, Carmen Yulin Cruz, stated that the waiver of the Jones Act “would instantly bring down the cost of supplies and construction materials by 33 percent” (Murray, 2017). With this project, Lightbourne hopes to give voice to many Puerto Ricans who are being ignored and left to their own devices to rebuild their lives. The island was devastated by Hurricane Maria over a month ago; and the US government has not done enough to help rebuild Puerto Rico and give hope to its people. This project will be the first step in beginning Lightbourne's future as an advocate for human rights. She also hopes this project can highlight the growing demand for independence or more defined recognition of Puerto Rico as part of the United States. You can follow Lightbourne's research on her Twitter page (click the image) or email her at malikalightbourne@gmail.com. My twitter handle is @BoricuaAdvocacy.
