The people of Puerto Rico, American Samoa, the US Virgin Islands, and Guam have waited far too long to have their voices heard in the federal government! Despite being part of the United States, the residents of these territories do not have voting representation in Congress nor do they have the right to vote in presidential elections. This is a personal issue to ALL Americans because they very denials of rights and representation stand in stark contrast to the values we hold dear — life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness — as enshrined in our very own Constitution!

Our history of holding these territories in a legal limbo is a dark reminder of imperialist tendencies that go against every democratic ideal we cherish. For too long, these territories have been on the periphery of American consciousness — acknowledged yet consistently forgotten since their occupations began. These hard working and God-loving Americans serve in our military, contribute to our economy, and enrich our culture but still lack the fundamental right to have a full say - or any say at all for that matter - in the very government that governs their lives!

Statistics show that Puerto Rico has over 3 million U.S. citizens, making it more populous than 20 states. The collective populations of these territories mean that approximately 4 million Americans are disenfranchised. This is not a small oversight; it’s a significant democratic deficit that tarnishes the very principles our nation was built upon! This imperialistic hold is what the founding fathers fought against in the American Revolution and it is what our brave American soldiers - both professional and militia mind you - fought and died for!

Granting statehood to these territories isn’t just a symbolic gesture; it’s a tangible step in eradicating institutionalized inequality. By recognizing these territories as states, we would not only honor their contributions but also rectify a longstanding injustice that has been perpetuated by federal neglect, upheld by social inequality that we fought against during the Civil Rights Movement!

We call on the United States Congress to act swiftly and decisively to grant statehood to Puerto Rico, American Samoa, the US Virgin Islands, and Guam. Let us prove that our democracy is one that values every voice equally and ensures that liberty and justice for all isn’t just a promise, but a reality. Please help us and sign this petition to bring much-needed attention to this critical issue and contribute in helping to pave the way for change!