The Necessity of Armed Resistance for Puerto Rico’s Liberation
The article discusses the necessity of armed resistance for Puerto Rico’s liberation from U.S. colonialism and white supremacy. It highlights historical movements such as the Nationalist Party and the Armed Forces of National Liberation, detailing their struggles and actions against oppressive forces. The need for a revolutionary nationalist party is emphasized as key to achieving independence and educating the populace.
The path to liberation from colonialism, capitalism, and white supremacy requires revolution, especially evident in Puerto Rico’s struggle. A Puerto Rican, I advocate for a revolutionary communist nationalist party, akin to the former Nationalist Party established in 1922 to combat U.S. colonialism, which began following the Spanish-American War in 1898.
The Nationalist Party, led by Pedro Albizu Campos, utilized media and grassroots organizations to contest oppressive U.S. control, hosting events to foster awareness of nationalism’s importance. In response to brutal repression, the Puerto Rican legislature enacted the Gag Law, criminalizing Nationalist expression, which lasted until its unconstitutionality was recognized in 1957.
In the early 1950s, the Nationalists intensified their resistance, leading to significant uprisings known as the Cries of Jayuya and Utuado. These actions resulted in casualties and marked a confrontation against the imperial power. An attempted assassination of President Harry Truman in 1950 further exemplified the severity of their fight.
While their armed efforts did not topple colonial authority, they ignited future movements driven by nationalism and Marxist-Leninism, recognizing the dual necessity of armed struggle and political education. Various revolutionary groups emerged, including the Puerto Rican Socialist League and Armed Liberation Commandos, which executed significant actions targeting capitalism and imperialism.
From 1968 to 1972, the Armed Liberation Commandos targeted multiple installations to dismantle capitalist structures while aligning with the working class’s struggles. They maintained a cohesive strategy despite international communist divisions, emphasizing the need for a theoretical framework to guide their struggle.
The Armed Forces of National Liberation (FALN), formed by a merger of different factions, began armed actions in 1974 to commemorate past uprisings and advocate for the release of imprisoned Nationalists. They applied military strategies aligned with revolutionary leaders to target institutions that upheld colonial oppression.
The FALN exemplified a comprehensive approach to liberation, incorporating various tactics including political education and strikes. They acknowledged the influence of worldwide movements in shaping Puerto Rico’s struggle and reacted forcefully against systemic racism perpetrated against Puerto Ricans and Black youths in the U.S.
The armed resistance in Puerto Rico against imperialism emphasizes the need for continued opposition to colonial and capitalist oppression, even under unfavorable circumstances. While there may be arguments against armed struggle, the FALN’s actions highlight the importance of rising against white supremacy and injustice.
The Workers World Party supports all legitimate methods employed by oppressed peoples in their quests for liberation. Long live the Nationalist Party of Puerto Rico and the revolutionary armed movement!
The article examines the historical and ongoing struggle for Puerto Rican independence, emphasizing the role of revolutionary movements in combating colonialism and imperialism. It highlights the efforts of the Nationalist Party and various armed groups that emerged in response to the oppressive U.S. presence in Puerto Rico. The piece situates the Puerto Rican experience within broader global anti-colonial movements, arguing for the necessity of armed struggle and political education in the quest for liberation.
In conclusion, the article underscores the significance of armed resistance and revolutionary movements in Puerto Rico’s fight against colonization and imperialism. It advocates for the need to revive nationalistic and revolutionary sentiments to inspire current and future generations. The historical context provided serves to enhance the understanding of the complexities involved in Puerto Rico’s ongoing struggle for autonomy and justice.
Original Source: www.workers.org
