Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
A QUESTION OF STATUS
A commonwealth of the United States of America, Puerto Rico is a semi-autonomous ter-
ritory whose constitutional status has long been a political oxymoron. Puerto Ricans enjoy
many protections and benefits that US citizens have, but they are not allowed to participate
in federal elections and have only a nonvoting 'Resident Commissioner' in the US House of
Representatives. Although economic development has become more pressing than any other
political issue of late, Puerto Rico's status remains a major point of contention for political
leaders.
In recent years, one federally commissioned study after the next has gone through pres-
idential and congressional committees. And while sudden changes to Puerto Rico's status
seem unlikely, there is some motion. In April 2010 Congress approved a measure for Puerto
Rico's self-determination, which may result in Puerto Rican voters deciding to continue its
present form or to move towards statehood or independence.
Even though the debate between statehood, commonwealth or independent nation has an-
imated Puerto Rican dinner tables for years, it can be a real powder keg with visitors. Use
lots of tact when inquiring about the position of your Puerto Rican hosts - or, better yet,
avoid the topic unless they bring it up.
Greeting People
» Though the customary greeting for people in Puerto Rico is similar to the US, with a hand-
shake or a quick hug, greetings with acquaintances are a bit more physical and may include
a pat on the shoulder or kiss on both cheeks.
Top Books
»
When I Was Puerto Rican
(Esmeralda Santiago) This memoir tackles immigration and
cultural assimilation.
»
The Rum Diary
(Hunter S Thompson) A tangled tale of treachery, alcoholism and lust at
a San Juan newspaper.
»
La Charca
(The Pond; Manuel Zeno Gandia) This 19th-century novel explores love,
murder and the struggle of coffee farmers.
»
Spiks
(Pedro Juan Soto) These short stories concern the struggle of Puerto Rican emig-
rants to the US in the '50s.
