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The colonial structure, by itÕs very nature, forces upon this tiny overpopulated island a merciless postmodern kind of mercantilism based in total penetration of - and dependence on - US capital and markets, resulting (among so many ills) in an unbearably expensive cost of living. To make matters worse, the imposition of the neoliberal model, based on exploitative labor conditions, squeezes merciless the finances of a dwindling middle class. It makes politics a highly beneficial and personal business for the political elites. It corrupts goverment processes and procedures. The goverment can only support an ÒOpen DoorÓ policy where (dangerously scarse) natural resources are open to the depredation of large capital, even when the price is not right! In this scheme of things, only the upper classes seem to be in the better end of colonialism, oblivious to all: so there are no powerful voices coming out from this sector. All other voices - specially those coming from the so called ÒcivilÓ society - are conveniently muffled. Indeed: what a monstrousity this colonial problem really is!
Although IÕm a pacifist, a believer of the law and non-violent and non-partisan ways to bring upon changes to existing political dilemas, I agree with Pedro Albizu Campos, who said: ÒPuerto Ricans must bring the colonial model to a crisis in order for its claims to be attended, instead of making pleas (my translation)Ó. Considering our present day ÒproblemsÓ, specially those directly related to our unresolved status issue, these words must have special resonance to all Puerto Ricans in all walks of life, for they are truely contemporary, while they speak an uncuestionable fundamental truth.
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