WAR AGAINST ALL PUERTO RICANS
Revolution and Terror in America’s Colony
The Deep Secret of the Puerto Rican Day Parade
The Puerto Rican Day Parade has a dark secret.
It has nothing to do with celebrities, rich corporations, or slick politicians.
It is a deep mystery, from the heart and history of Puerto Rico, which explains the whole parade…
Seventy years ago, Boricuas were given the worst jobs and housing in New York City. They were also beaten by their neighbors and the NYPD.
And yet in 1958, some brave Boricuas dared to hold a humble parade where they could march with pride, arm-in-arm, through the heart of Manhattan.
Mothers clapped their hands…to the bombas and plenas of their childhood.
Fathers schooled their children…explaining the floats dedicated to Puerto Rican towns known for sugar cane, tobacco, coffee, pineapples and plantains.
The Puerto Rican pride spread rapidly.
By 1966, the parade was already a “must do” event for politicians and celebrities.
Today, the parade is a star-studded TV spectacle with 90,000 marchers, 2 million spectators and a horde of corporate sponsors. Marc Anthony, J.Lo, Ricky Martin, Victor Cruz, and nine mayors — including Michael Bloomberg and Bill De Blasio — have all “starred” in it.
But even as the National Puerto Rican Day Parade has become one of the nation’s largest and best-known outdoor celebrations, there is a secret that few people suspect…a secret that reaches into the heart of every Puerto Rican, without their even knowing it.
It is the secret of the Puerto Rican flag.
Have you ever noticed the passionate, over-the-top, surrealistic display of Puerto Rican flags at every Puerto Rican Day Parade?
Everywhere you look, it is an ocean of flags!
Block after block, you see this:
And this:
And this:
And even this:
This is no accident.
There is a reason for this emotional attachment.
There is a reason why Que Bonita Bandera and Preciosa bring tears to our eyes…and sometimes we don’t even know why.
It is because this flag represents an ideal…the ideal of lost youth and forgotten illusions…much like last night’s dream…or the prayers we once heard, at our grandmothers’ feet.
But there is one more reason, why this flag is the emotional heart of the parade.
It is the secret which explains everything.
We are crazy about this flag because for many years, any Puerto Rican who owned one, would go to jail for ten years.
WHEN OWNING A FLAG WAS A FELONY
For many years, the United States wanted only one flag in Puerto Rico.
Here is that flag, in the inauguration of the first US Governor of Puerto Rico, in April 1900:
Pedro Albizu Campos refused to salute this flag.
In order to crush Don Pedro and the Nationalist movement, a law was passed in 1948, right after Don Pedro got out of jail.
It was called Public Law 53, and also known as La Ley de la Mordaza…the Gag Law.
Law 53 made it a felony to sing a song, whistle a tune, or utter one word against the US government, or in favor of Puerto Rican independence.
This included singing La Borinqueña, or owning a Puerto Rican flag.
Own a flag…ten years in jail.
Every day, the FBI and Insular Police raided people’s homes, searched for flags, and hauled Puerto Ricans off to jail.
In many cases the flag – all by itself – was the sole piece of evidence.
Own a flag…ten years in jail
They did it all over the island.
In November 1950, they arrested 3,000 Puerto Ricans within one week!
Some of them were only eight years old.
Public Law 53 was passed in 1948.
Even though it violated the US constitution, it took nine years to repeal it, in 1957. The very next year, in 1958, the first Puerto Rican Day Parade was held in New York City.
The flags and celebration were everywhere. The passion was astonishing. New York had never seen anything like it.
The Puerto Rican Day parade exploded into New York City, with the emotion and power of an entire people…who had finally found a voice…for one day on Fifth Avenue.
The U.S. politicians couldn’t explain it, but they did know one thing…that they better get in front of it, and yell “¡Que viva Puerto Rico!”
That much they did understand.
And so, the deep secret of the Puerto Rican Day Parade is this:
The parade was born in the hearts of an entire nation…where every person was declared a criminal…if they dared to show their flag.
Que bonita bandera
Que bonita bandera
Que bonita bandera es la bandera Puertorriqueña
¡ QUE VIVA PUERTO RICO !
For a history of the War Against All Puerto Ricans, read the book…
Si prefiere ver la página web en español por favor visite: http://www.guerracontratodoslospuertorriquenos.com</span
WAR AGAINST ALL PUERTO RICANS 
Thanks had no idea of this history at all, like is disconnected, does not flow…
LikeLike
When the attackers, your captors, cannot bring you to your knees they will do everything to suppress and destroy their captives. The Stockholm syndrome is a clear version of convincing your captors that they are the best thing in your lives, your friends, allies and know what is to your convenience and the best thing that ever happened to you, I would definitely label this syndrome to our Boricanas.
LikeLike
Very informative. Well written and explained. I too as a child in the late 60’s saw and felt the vibe. I did not know too much about the history of repression for the flag. Even NewYorkRicans like me love the flag. Always have always will.
Mi mama me decia “orgullo de la bandera y de ser Puertoriqueno!.
LikeLike
Law 116!! Let’s not forget the forced sterilization of Puerto Rican Women and generations lost!!! La operación!!
LikeLike
My whole entire family is from Puerto Rico and we came to U.S in 1945 and we all lived in the Bronx NY I attended school in Puerto Rico also and I march in the parade and very proud to be Puerto Rican were ever I stand. I would like to buy your book to educate some people Please will you be able to sign it. Thank you.
LikeLike
I live in Arizona, but I go home every Nov. and enjoy our Beautiful Island. I have two Palm trees in my house (indoors) and fell like I’m back home. Soy de Naguabo an Proud.
LikeLike
That was truly, not only a good read but very educational. Every Puerto Rican should know this and share
! Que Viva Puerto Rico! Que Viva!
LikeLike
Hey, Rev. Dominick!
It is great to hear from you. I would love to sign your book. Where are you these days? I would love to see you!
–Nelson
LikeLike
Wow. Incredible. I was born in NY, both parents puertorrican, went to parades in the 60’s, and didn’t know all this. My aunt participated in the first parade. I now live in PR. ¡Que viva PR!🌴🌞☕
LikeLike
My granddad told me about this and I was in disbelief. It was hard for Puertoricans back then! He moved to New York with his wife my grandma and the children and few more where born in NY. They where called so many names and threatened by everyone! It was hard but he was a strong man with even a stronger will to keep his family abroad! He was always determined to follow his dreams and he surely did! He learned several languages and so did his children. He moved back to the island in the late sixties and builder his business he was the best at it. But one thing he always mentioned NEVER FEEL ASHAME TO DO THE RIGHT THINGS BY FOLLOWING YOUR DREAMS!
LikeLike
There is no doubt that Puerto Rico is just a colony of the USA. It’s just a strategist point in the Caribbean, that the USA would immediately use to attack our sister island, Cuba, in case there would be war between Cuba and the USA. There is a video showing Trump receiving, on his desk, the last referendum of the island, showing 97% of Puerto Ricans wanted statehood. The racist president, the pathological liar, threw all the paperwork in the trash can. That’s how much we, Puerto Ricans mean to the USA. When the racist president went to the island, after Maria, the hurricane, this “president” threw toilet paper at them. Like him saying, hey servants, this is the only thing you are getting from my administration. Then later, the racist president stated he had given aid to Puerto Rico in the amount of 91 billions of dollars. What a liar.
LikeLike
Very interesting and educational. Didn’t know this, but I’m not surprised at the injustices done.
LikeLike
Es muy cierto aquello que dice, la idea en el espíritu se infunde, al choque del poder que la maltrata. Aunque la bandera es un símbolo más de una nación en particular, inflama el corazón de amor hacia la patria.
LikeLike
Since 1898 The United state has had their hands in Puerto Rico. The united state really wants Puerto Rico to fail so they can turn around and buy it almost free especially That pig Trump
LikeLike
The song I’ll never go back to Georgia is about Puerto Ricans going to Georgia for promised jobs which they couldn’t get because of their race. Once their they were beaten and treated like slaves. My Grandfather finally got a good job when WW2 broke out. Whenit ended he went back to being a super for a short time and then having to move from building to building. The U.S. was built on slavery of people running from their homeland for political reasons to come here for a diffrent set of problems.
LikeLike
I did not know about this secret about our 🇵🇷 until i read it here on fb.It hurts to the core of my heart and soul.thank you for the info.much needed
QUE VIVA. PUERTO RICO yQUE BONITA
BANDERA.
LikeLike
I’ve been told that if you were not born on the island you are not considered a true Puerto Rican, well to those who believe that let me enlighten you. My parents were born on the island, they were moved to the states as adolescents. We only spoke Spanish at home, my parents made sure we knew about our heritage, taught us the language, how to cook delicious meals, told us many stories of their childhood experiences and made sure we all, there was five children, were very proud of our heritage. So you see, I am as much a Puerto Rican as any other!
I am as proud as you are, I know the history and am very concerned about the future of our beautiful island. And on that note…..Que Viva Puerto Rico!🇵🇷
LikeLike
Thank you for the information I really didn’t anything about this.
LikeLike
Until today I had no knowledge of this,
thanks so much for sharing
LikeLike
I’m fond of telling people that “Puerto Rican is what I am, not who I am”, for the benefit of those who say I don’t look Puerto Rican or talk like one. The White people say it like it’s a compliment, the Puerto Ricans say it accusingly, as if I’m ashamed to be one of them. Hey, it ain’t my fault I was assimilated into the White Bread culture of this country by the Catholic nuns who educated me. When I was a kid in Catholic school, the nuns discouraged you from speaking Spanish. Puerto Rican kids were punished for speaking Spanish in my school. I guess the good sisters didn’t know that Puerto Rico was an American colony. They wanted us to speak English without our parents’ accent, so we could be good Americans. I’m proud to be an American, I’m also proud to be Puerto Rican. I wish I was more fluent in Spanish so I could explain this to both sides. But what the hell, I am what I am and that’s all that I am. (Thanks, Popeye!) Viva Puerto Rico! And God help America if the orange buffoon gets re-elected.
LikeLike
OMG I remember as a child going to those meeting with mommy and the ongoing discussions with Gerrna,Ramon and so many others some still alive and some gone but their efforts, the pride they instilled in us will live for ever. Siempre adelante
The very idea that every pueblo would be represented in NYC was genuine.
LikeLike
My grandmother, Laura Santiago was one of the organizers of the “El Primer Desfile”. I have plenty of documentation. She had her own radio show in Spanish, she backed any politician who would help the Puerto Rican cause. She helped get Nelson Rockefeller get elected governor. She was never given her due for what she did for our people. You can contact me or look her up. I have newspapers articles and photos.
Sincerely,
Ralph Cestero Santiago
LikeLike
Wow very impressive and heart warming glad we fought for our rights love our island learned something I didn’t know ty for posting
LikeLike
This us an amazing documentary must Puertoricans and newyoricans don’t know I did not know about the struggle for the flag..definetly very powerful..very proud of the resilience of my people.Very proud of my heritage.domeone should make this a special documentary on national TV to educate the world about the abuse and the struggle we had indure under the commonwealth status..and. America still denies Puerto Rico statehood necessary to have a better economic status and equality as American citizens..
LikeLike
Thanks for the history of La Bandera!! Never knew.🇵🇷🇵🇷🇵🇷🙏
LikeLike
Born in Puerto Rico, raised in Bronx NY and now living in Long Beach CA & I never knew the history. But being a proud Puerto Rican I have always carried my PR flag in my car & home. Thanks for the info y que VIVA PR
LikeLike
Thanks For Sharing.Que Viva Mi Gente Que Viva Puerto Rico DLB❤🙏
LikeLike
Now in 2019, more than ever before, our Puerto Rican voice resonates as a socially progressive international influence. Collectively, the Boricua cultural experience becomes stronger and clearer as more is achieved, while the United States dominance begins to fade into obsolescence. A new time is emerging for Puerto Rico to advance to prominence as an example of both the challenges and the accomplishments of the “American Experience”, not the “United States Experience”, but rather the experience encompassing the entire South American, Central American, Northern American continent. This becomes ever more specific importance with the advent of climate change and ocean impact which can be measured by the Island’s unique location.
LikeLike
Thank you Honorable Nelson Dennis for your fabulous words of wisdom.
It’s been a great privilege and pleasure knowing you my Brother.
God continue to bless you.
P.S.
Getting ready to obtain a copy of your Book
Please let me know when you can sign it
LikeLike
This I heard of but only bits and pieces of the truth, now I know….I have two flags dangling in my appointment and will salute them every time I enter my home with pride..QUE VIVA PUERTO RICO..
LikeLike
Wow great unknown History. We r a proud ppl & have come a long way but ignorant 2 the sacrifices struggles & challenges we faced 2 get where we r today. Let’s keep the History of PR alive through Books Songs Art Dance & anything pertinent 2 our culture so that our youth will grow up knowing what it took 2 b able 2 celebrate 2day. Que Viva PUERTO RICO!
LikeLike
Did it in three days… A must have book.
LikeLike
Que Viva las banderas
LikeLike
Read the book , very informative , an eye opener bitter and sweet , I am proud of my heritage . My daughter wrote an essay on Pedro Abizu Campos which gained her a place in the Possee Foundation and onto a Ivy League road of academia , being Puerto Rican is a blessing , bendito if you are not …
LikeLike
God’s blessings to all Puerto Ricans. Freedom for our people! Independence or Statehood we must makeup our minds for the future generations.
LikeLike
Thank you for this informative data…
LikeLike
My hat goes out to the editor who wrote this story. Finally the truth was told. I fortunately, I feel Puerto Rican’s continues to be treated second hand citizen. A fact why was more money spent on the Puerto Rican Parade then to the cause in Puerto Rico.
Sad my heart still broke by the hand and words of those who continue to turn their backs on us.
God bless us all.
Jesus Rivera
LikeLike
I am so proud of my flag did not know you can spent 10 years in jail for owning a flag and now with a new idiot president Mr. Trump who didn’t even know we were part of the United States we might go back to that time ever God bless us all
LikeLike
Pingback: Week 3 Blog- National Culture – Site Title
Time changes and so are our mentality, I can’t live in the past and they’re in no way I would endorse a person that would put a bomb to hurt innocent people. I like the dreams of the future better than the history of the past.
LikeLike
Plain and Simple ”””THE HELL WITH STATEHOOD”””
LikeLike
Just wondering if puerto rico was aware of this news.http://caribbeanbusiness.com/yingke-caribbean-china-center-opens-in-puerto-rico%E2%80%A8%E2%80%A8/
LikeLike
Train your youngings to take care of the crown of gray, because there is much to be learned from them(with compassion) do not envy each other, that’s your downfall-but with compassion teach each other-and grow together-respect all cultures and people, because you learn from them-there is always something to be learned, and taught.
LikeLike
There’s good/bad in every race, learn the good-your songs(lyrics) foods, cultures jubilant flag on one day with RESPECT- and celebrated success every time another of your people rise through your hard work, your support, and encouragement, not like crabs bringing each other down-respect compassion for others-those difficult people need the most compassion (not easy, but yes you can)!
LikeLike
Learn from them without the violence, they use religion to help each other prosper-and all work together for that goal-to raise respectable members of society. Not as ‘kings’ but as an entity worthy of honor, respect, conservative in attire, passionate at heart, diligent at work, compassion for others without becoming exploited (that is y unity is imperative).
LikeLike
It starts with the people becoming the nation, work hard in silence, be diligent and zealous in marrying and roommates with your own people as foreigners have done, any inheritance left leave to your children and your people, that’s how you become the nation, because if you don’t that inheritance is distribution for others not your kids, or your people. You must become your own entity. Stay positive, you’re not a depressed people, and you are hard workers who have never taken the easy way out. No matter how small, just remember, ants started off small too-but with zealousness unity and hard work, you shall overcome the manipulative exploitation used against your people. Best wishes to you all.💜
Remember, they divide to conquer, and become your “friends” to know your weakness and use it against you, their purpose is to divide your families for any hard work left inheritance-teach your kids, they are the nation!
LikeLike
The pictures speaks for itself, if it is done often it becomes their behavior, you cannot be part of two predominant coins who just use people as things for their benefits only-you are who you are Puerto Rican, Ame-Rican. With respect for all others, do not become a stepping stone again-you are Borinken a combination of three unique races do to a history of exploitation far beyond one, but two. To succeed you must work together with each other, not against each other-but don’t let any take advantage of you and your history. Radical racism is not part of who we should be, besides the two coins are the same and work together for themselves.
LikeLike
Thanks Nelson…So eloquent as always.
Gracias
LikeLike
I have always love you Puerto Rico, because you are my people-because I know your struggles; I know you’re teachable and worthy no matter what the world says against you! Keep your head up!💜
LikeLike
I’m no poet-but my soul is oldee than the players of the game..
They strive to divide your families, like a free bird that flies off of the ecosystem-it evolves into every color and shade;
Living free off the lands with iron fists, who gain all wealths and pay others to betray;
They can never have enough toys, your females live in a prison like the little meemaids in drowning waters pitch forks;
Their beauty is envied therefore a cacoon hidden so others can shine light;
Like Delilah seducing your men, yet their not willing to sacrifice for them, because you are nothing but a product that works-for them to live off your hands;
Never can you attain the knowledge and wisdom of a caged bird-who in silence reads the behavior and intentions of the fake brave;
Artificial intelligence, they raiae them up to build the wealths, to bring them down and live off your hard work;
In a blink of an eye, like a peice on your head, while their darlings await on caah day;
All you have is time, treasure the memories knowing you’ll never fly free on clipped wings;
A few chosen, a few paid…believing they’re living the dream;
Yet the dream is just a mile given until the claws on your throats;
Like climbing a ladder to the top, the iron fists must live in the splendor aa one;
You watch them grow, and teach them to talk and walk;
Every time you walk away, you wonder if it’s the last time;
Wanderous, we are nothing but wanderous in the game of all their stolen lands.
LikeLike
Do you still feel my fellow Puerto Ricans? Because some us stopped feeling a long time ago with the grotesque injustices against our people without accountability for the injustices. Try to stick together, and have compassion on each other-love each other-because obviously you’re all you got. I know it’s hard to believe in God, heck i question it all the time, but give up. Peace to you all.
LikeLike
I laugh at how people claim Oscar a terrorist, and honor a far greater violent revolutionary-needless to add all the riots looting of businesses, assaults-burning police cars-killing police officers-i don’t comprehend what America has against puerto Ricans-all they’ve done is use em all-even for benefits other nations have used them. It truly is unbelievable to witness such injustices for more than 525 years against these people-like a challenge of some kind and grotesquely out numbered in a devils box that haa control and self control issues and cries victim. Baffled.
LikeLike
Let me put it this way, you have talent-but supposedly you’ve been told “what talent?” Chances are you can move to a foreign country, give up your citizenship, respect their culture-learn from them and do better-because we all know it’s all about controlling the power and wealth sort of speak, and keeping y’all undermined in Rico and USA.
LikeLike
Not into religion or politics, but if they’re gonna go there-i got a verse to support my valid concerns. Ok-best of luck to all peoples-i am not gonna get into the race religion and politics rhetoric.
LikeLike
Y’all gonna have to stick together, because they’re getting into biblical and politics-but y’all people are standing alone practically-very daunting-Isaiah 4:1, and that’s not sharia law, politics is patriotic-your people paid a high price-Ellis island Florida(Cubans too) and even Rico was known to be y’all land. Why should i feel intimidated to post, and even fb shut down-immigrants stick together 7 to one home, even more, you gonna have to become the nation to fight back morally, discretion and morally-cause your women men and children need you..your people need you, because you’re all scattered intentionally, divided intentionally to keep you weak. These are daunting times, and in case y’all didn’t realize it, You’re ppl are under atrack-you know it now.
LikeLike
👔conservativo(a), no musica alta, no peleas entre matrimonio🚔vivir callado(a), observar todo-y en grupos sin traerse atencion(callado(a) respetablemente.
LikeLike
No pueden traerse atencion a si mismos-calladitos, aprendan la ley en los estados bien – mucha precaucion.
LikeLike
Levantate a la batalla, porque a sus mujeres las tienen jodida en muchos estados a proposito para separar a sus familias. Tienen que bonerse fuerte gente, y convertirse en LA nacion-con respeto para otras naciones-levanta a tus mujeres x7 y sus hijos-unidad-en muchos estados no los quieren, y mucho menos unidos-les estan rompiendo sus matrimonios a proposito-y casa dia nuestras mujeres coren mas peligro.
LikeLike
I never knew the true history of this, even after all these years.
Wow! What an eye opener.
I do have to say I’m proud to be a Puertoriquena who grow up in N.Y. What a beautiful way to honor our country it shows Patriotism for us all. May everyone be safe and God bless each and everyone during this special day. The song for the flag of P.R. always made me cry now I understand way even more. Thanks for sharing this information with us all. Lesson well learned.
LikeLike
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gag_Law_(Puerto_Rico)
LikeLike
Jose Spic….thank you!
I didn’t know what a Spic was until I read your comment. You are the epitome of Spic!
LikeLike
I am 100% Puerto Rican, born and raised in Brooklyn, NY. I am and have always been very proud of my heritage. I’ve taught my children our heritage. We as a family are always learning something new about our history. It is my honor and privilege to be a boricua woman! I carry my flag in my bag everyday and everywhere! Even when I was in the U.S. Navy, fighting in Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. I even moved my kids to Puerto Rico for a few years. I am Puerto Rican and proud!
Brenda Santiago
LikeLiked by 1 person
There is a lot of true and fiction in this article a mixture of facts and non facts. It seems like a propaganda article.
LikeLike
No Vincent and to others statehooders supporters outof the question no!!! No Statehood zero enough!!! No maore adding that’s it.Those that seek statehood have no clear understanding about freedom and have been brainwashed by the socialist statehood propaganda.Thank You to the independent supporters Puerto Rico needs its independence with its own autonomy and self economic development,Its needs its own sovereignty and right to exist as a nation with its own identity and culture.
LikeLike
Quiero dar las gracias por este letrero información sobre de los puertorriqueños carrier yo agradezco que han luchado por nosotros hoy en día yo cumplí 62 años y ahora estoy viendo esto que no sabía mucho pero gracias a todos que ha marchado y aquí han luchado que Dios la bendiga y que se levantan alto la bandera puertorriqueña y Sigue cantando qué bonita bandera la bandera puertorriqueña Harry
LikeLike
I so proud of my puerto Rican heritage and will always fly my flag and will buy this book thing’s i didn’t know this was happening i was bron in the early 60 a most reed thank you my brother
LikeLike
That crazy I’m Puerto Rican and I wasn’t even aware of what was going in those days they definitely don’t Cheech you this in school
LikeLike
This brings me to tears I am a Puerto Rican myself and I used to hear my grandmother and my mother speak about their childhood and wow is like they’re living to see all the changes that has occur like is it a good thing or bad or more like a blessing.. I take pride in my flag and my nationality I love the skin I’m in our adobo and sazon flavor y sofrito aye lol God bless us all!!!!
LikeLike
I came to The United States in 1955, I will not go into all that I saw during my up bringing. When I finished H.S. I went into the Army. In the Army (1968) you still racism of Blacks, Puerto Ricans, Mexicans, on and on. In Viet-Nam was were we came to Call each other Brothers. PROUD TO BE PUERTO RICAN, NEVER TOOK ANY C–P FROM ANYONE.
LikeLike
It’s heart warming to read some of my heritage and to know why what was and how it became to be more people need to be taught heritage in schools and truth so they know the struggles that got us here.
LikeLike
Even if Puerto Rico becomes a state, our flag will always have the same value, and meaning it has today, not as nationalist but as one people belonging to the greatest democratic nation on earth. Never mind but not forget, those ignorant laws from the past, but yet remember the blood that was spill for that flag. That’s more than all the parades in the world. “QUE VIVA PUERTO RICO”
LikeLike
I KNOW IT TO BE TRUE AND WITHOUT ANY EXAGERATION BECAUSE I WITNESSED IT. I MIGRATED FROM PUERTO RICO NEW YORK IN 1949. I DID NOT LIVE IN EL BARRIO, I HAD FRIENDS LIVING THERE. PTO RICAN WERE ABUSED EVERYWHERE IN THE USA. IN NEW YORK CITY PTO RICAN CHILDREN WERE HOUSED INTHE 600 SCHOOLS FOR MENTALLY INCAPACITATED STUDENTS. THE SCHOOLS ADMINISTRATORS USEDE TO GET MORE MONEY ON THE BASES THAT OUR CHILDREN RETARDED. IN 1964 I WORKED AS AN EDUCATIONAL SPECIALIST FROM PTO RICAN OFFICE IN MANHATTAN. I ATTENDED SEVERAL MEETINGS AT N.Y. DEPT OF ED. IN BKLYN. BELIEVE ME THERE ARE A LOT OF THINGS MOST PEOPLE DO NOT KNOW. BUT, WE HAVE CONQUERED N PROGRESS A LOT. VIVE LE HON. SONIA SOTOMAYOR
LikeLike
We all bleed red , it is awful that the Flag of the country put their own people in jail, shame on the Americans that made it possible. I happen to LOVE all but I have a very special place in my life for the beautiful Puerto Rican CULTURE & the LOVE THAT SHINES FOR THE LOVE OF FAMILY ♡♧♡♧ NO ONE HAS THE RIGHT TO SAY THEY DON’T LIKE SOMEONE BECAUSE OF WHERE THEY ARE FROM OR THEIR FAMILY. IT’S RACISM AND IT SUCKS !!!!
LikeLike
I was born on the Island and grew up in The Bronx and we still have a very large family on the Island and when we get together, we are and will continue to be 100% Boricua! My Son who was born in the USA, also identifies as 100% Boricua. The reason? We never lost contact with our roots and every moment we can we learn and out-smart each other with Puerto Rican History, we do! We will continue to hold on to our culture for our future generations, wherever we are! Yo soy Boricua aunque hubiera nacido en La Luna!! Open your eyes and learn about your history, embrace it and come to a conclusion about it and you will find yourself on the side of Independence not dependence!
LikeLike
Margarita Henry,
I am proud to be a Puerto Rican, born in Naranjito, PR!!! I never knew this piece of history!!! This I will pass on to my family!!! Thank you!!!
LikeLike
Wow so many of our people don’t know this and they should , it should be shouted out
LikeLike
Thanks I well remember my father and ubcje all the males if the family being pursued by the town police and searching your huts fir they were made of hay and palm leaves!The tension and dear were so big that thousand of Puerto Rican left for New York leaving land and houses.Our parents came to work but those of us who came in as little children git a terrible lesson n difference at the local schools.!We aren’t laws of God abdnen since the European step into our Island a people if Hispa
LikeLike
I am extremely proud to be a Puerto Rican! I wave my flag with pride and have taught my daughters and grandson who’s only 3 to do so as well! WEPA!
LikeLike
YES IT WAS IN 1958, BUT IT WAS HELD ON 3RD AVE FROM 103ST TO 110ST. AND THE FOUNDERS WERE GENERA VALENTIN, MY SISTER MILAGROS MARTINEZ AND A FEW LOCAL POLITICOS.
LikeLike
Hi everyone, I was born and raised in Spanish Harlem. (Manhattan) I am Boriqua! So proud of my heritage. Love Puerto Rico and the loving people. The food is awesome. The beaches are beautiful. I was not aware of the Puerto Rican history behind the flag. I pray for my people and that someday the island will be restore. May God bless us all!! ❤️
LikeLike
Well i am carrying puerto rico’s blood in my veins…I am so proud to be puerto rican
LikeLike
Pingback: War Against All Puerto Ricans receives 3 million views | WAR AGAINST ALL PUERTO RICANS
But still there are a lot of Puerto Ricans that don’t know these facts and don’t care to learn about our struggle and our beautiful culture. And some are so against independence that they don’t care to learn what it is all about. Despierta Boricua!!
LikeLike
I am married to a native Puerto Rican. For years, my husband has told me of the struggles and strife; how the United States treats Puerto Rico like a natural resource to be pillaged, regardless of what happens to her people. I look forward to the day when Puerto Rico takes her place as a Sovereign State in the United Nations. I look forward to visiting the island. I am proud to say that I am married to a Puerto Rican.
LikeLike
Que viva Puerto Rico . Tenemos derecho a ser puertorriqueños. Con que derecho nos quieren cuartar nuestro nuestro derecho de ser de Puerto Rico.
LikeLike
Hola me llamo Pablo Boricuasburnin ,
Nací Ponciano..1958.. criado acá “SF Bay area ” llegando a viejo sé la historia y el cuento de mi BANDERA Preciosa .. it has given me a true vision of my heritage ..mis sangre de veras.. as the youngest of four with starting a completely different form of life here in California 1960..identity crisis x10. isolaton that is not to comprehend for most of mi gente boricus..lost in my life living this isolated existence were big chunks of Los cuentos de mi país ..
BORIKEŃ… really did understand til recently the history, las Estoria nuestra ,thanks muchisimo for this article,that my frist memory of the TV didn’t come til middle of grade school Where the enlightenment of my heritage started & not till my return to COUNTRY ,Perla del caribe,35 yrs later.. to my estonishmont I felt immediately I was home.. and for the now &the foreseeable further I’ll be calling mi tiera “Puetorrico “my home.. with all my God blessing of health and longevity I will be catching up, Protecting and living mi vida
BORRICANO. QUE VIVA BORINKIN….
LIBRE INDEPENDIENTE SORBERANO!!!
LikeLike
Wow…orgullosa de mi raises !
LikeLike
Back in 1953, I believe, there was a gentleman who was jailed for three months for flying the Puerto Rican flag from the balcony of his home in Orocovis, in central Puerto Rico. Once he returned home from jail, he painted a huge Puerto Rican flag at the side wall of his home. “I dare them to take away THIS one,” he said. It is still painted there.
LikeLike
Que hermosa expresion sobre porque amamos, valoramos y repetamos nuestra bandera, porque ella encierra nuestra razon de ser, nuestra puertorriqueñidad , todo aquello que quisierieron silenciar como pueblo y que nunca han podido. “Ondeando por el cielo veo volando mi bandera y orgulloso yo me siiento de mi solutaria estrella.”
LikeLike
THIS CULTURAL ACHIEVEMENT WILL DEMONSTRATE THE ENTIRE NATION, THAT PUERTO RICO AS A STATE OF THE UNION, HAS OUTSTANDING VALUES AND PATRIOTISM TO BRING AN DISTINGUISH CONTRIBUTION TO THE AMERICAN FLAG, WHEN THE STAR OF OUR FLAG IS INCORPORATED TO THE HONORABLE ACTUAL FIFTY STARS IN OUR NATIONS FLAG.
LikeLike
I see and read so many stories my heart is between anger and pride. But something I must say and have been saying for some time now. The north nation wich invaded us in the Hispanic American war is not AMERICA. America is constituted by all countries from the top of North America, central and south america. The US has not only invaded every single state they have and their territories but they also invade the name wich represents them. They should be called american statesmen and statewomen, that’s the true name or clarification. Let’s be more conscious of what we say and how we say it even why we are saying it. To call a united statesman an American as a whole and solemne description is yet another invation we let them do. We fir being borikuas from Boriké are already Americans before Columbus arrived and Americo Vespuccio. We were Americans since we were Arawack, Igneris, kaligano,locono and many more indigenous races that made the Borikua. I apretiate this post and the information given. Knowledge is power. But please let ones and for all start to practice the knowledge of history and act in accordance to that history. “Don’t know your past. Won’t know your future.” A Peruvian is an American, an Argentinian is an American , a Canadian is an American and yes united statesmen are American but not only people’s from the US. The US has nothing to do with the union of the Americas, the dream of Simon Bolivar. Instead they have kept us dispersed as if we were all diferent. We are all Americans from Canada to Chile. Not just the US. To see the US as the soul representation of America is a fallacy for they are all nation made from inglish emigrants as we all know. A nation created by invation wich bred all types of people. Good and bad. Wise and ignorants. Racist and none racist. As well as we should know the history of our parade and flag. We should also know what an American really is. I know this is not the subject but I read so much saying American when they mean united statesman or woman. Let’s call things as they are focused on true history. Not politics or any kind of fanatism. It’s that fanatism wich devided us in the beginning. Now I leave this thought. Imagine what we can do if the same pride on going out on our day parade we gave to our real issues. What if? We united in a common idea to protect ourselves from more than 100 years of invation, rape, colonialism and lies. Imagine borikuas united in Peace asking for peace,equality, and true freedom. We are powerful yet we forget.
LikeLike
Pingback: The Puerto Rican Parade | [un]Common Sense
My name is lil Tito (1000%) BORICUA. Born and raised on the “Lower East Side Ave. D”. PROUD TO BE PUERTO RICAN. LOVE MY HERITAGE AND MY PEOPLE. May GOD always bless my country and all the other countries as well. There’s nothing in this world like being Puerto Rican and walking with Christ. Thank you Jesus for loving us all. May God bless all all of you. Seek Jesus and watch him change your life.
LikeLike
A good piece of history. Thank you!
LikeLike
U know ur right when u hold that flag in ur hands something goes through ur body, it’s diffrent feelings all at once all good.
I am a nyrican born in Brooklyn and as long as I could remember my mother making acapurias, rejEnos de Papas and sandwiches with Kool aid Brite and early and sit us down on the side walk to watch this parade.
Oh and when it started we love to sing que Bonito bandera.
I was born in 1954 and lived all that prejudice we lived calling us spices, by this time we lived in the the village right down the street of St Vincents hospital. When I first saw Rita Moreno in Westside Story I said wow that was us in that movie, I could identify with this movie it was so on point I cried.
And I started taking my kids to the parade as infants up until they were 16 and 14 then they went with their friends and we would meet up in front of St Patrick Cathedral.
Then they started with their own family’s till this day.
I love my people and our culture que viva Puerto Rico always and our flag
LikeLike
Gracias por tan importante declaración, no sabía que de esta forma fue que nació la parada puertoriqueña.Me emocione al leer esta verdad que representa a un pueblo que luchó por unos derechos y la vergüenza de un pueblo opresor que no quería compartir una tierra de la cual ellos mismos fueron quienes le arrebataron a los indios americanos; estoy completamente ORGULLOSO de mi Bandera y de ser llamado BORICUA….siii….”PA QUE TU LO SEPAS”….
LikeLike
WHY HE IS PROUD==BEAUTIFUL ISLAND. I SEE A BEAUTIFUL WOMAN AND I GO AFTER HER FOR BEAUTY, NOT HER CAR, HER JOB OR BANK BOOK. WE ARE GOVERNED BY MYRIAD HORMONES, ABOVE ALL, THE NEED TO REPRODUCE. IN BED, BOTH, MAN N WOMEN WILL ENGINEER, IF U ALLOW ME, THAT ATTRACTION OF BEAUTY N HORMONES.TO REINFORCE THEIR MUTUAL INTEREST–LOVE–I HAD A JOB, HIGH SCHOOL TEACHER WHEN I LEFT THE ISLAND LAST. I GO BACK TO ENJOY ITS BEAUTY N ITS PEOPLE. OF COURSE, THERE ARE PROBLEMS IN P.R. BUT MY COMPATRIOT, LOOK AROUND IN NEW YORK CITY, LONDON, PARIS, LA. MEXICO D.F. BUENOS AIRES, CARACAS. RIO DE JANEIRO NOT TO MENTION YIHADISTS INTHE MIDDLE EAST. PUERTO RICO IS A PARADISE, A BLESSING FROM ABOVE. THERE PLACES IN P.R. WHERE U CAN GRAB BANANAS, ORANGES, MANGOES,COCONUTS, UVAS PLAYERAS N FISH, ALL FREE OF CHARGE IF TRUST PUERTO RICAN HOSPITALITY N FRIENDSHIP. ENJOY THE ISLAND BEFORE CLIMATE CHANGE HARMS IT.
LikeLike
This is the second time I read this interesting and highly educational article.I spent most of my life span in Brooklyn, N.Y. I was born in 5/1930. I was born and raised out in the country. There was a law in Pto Rico that we must speak English at home although there were no English speaking people around.My father imposed on us a beautiful ruling that said: I was born a Spanish citizen, I speak Spanish, therefore, this is my land, and Spanish is the only language to be spoken in this house. That was his public pronouncement; what was not publicly known or revealed was a letter like, signed by PATRIOTA Jose de Diego. I ended up knowing neither English or good Spanish because it was not taught in schools. QUE BONITA BANDERA MEANS PUERTO RICANS HAVE ALWAYS BEEN HEROIC, BEAUTIFUL AND HAPPY PEOPLE. See Galeria de Heroes de Puerto Rico by this author.
LikeLike
Gracias Knowledge is power. There is no reason to be ahamed of who you are. We being fighting next to Americans paying the ultimate price since the civil war https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Augusto_Rodr%C3%ADguez_%28soldier%29 Love this country Adore yours.
LikeLike
The most giving loving people? You obviously having been to North Philadelphia. Most of my people live in lala land and do not see how bad Puerto Rico really is. Ask a Puerto Rican why he is proud of being PR and they will get into a two spew about how beautiful the Island. Not once do they mention the important things like jobs or medical.
LikeLike
My Great grandmother God rest her soul was pure taino. I was blessed enough to have laid my eyes and connected to this legend of my family. We are from the mountains and know how to survive. I am great full to the US for our living, however, my people, don’t be fooled. There are so many racist individuals who don’t like to see us do good, but como Calle 13 says, el que se mete con mi jente me cae mal. We are the most giving loving people, but u mess with us, you’re cursed by our ancestors. Stay together such as educating and sharing like this board for instance. Let us always be a good people as we’ve been since the day of the boriqua. Blessings
LikeLiked by 1 person
Good info…AmeRican 100%
LikeLike
Reading the book. I relate to all this.
LikeLike
iam so happy to know all about this i did not know i will pass it on thank you very much
LikeLike
Pingback: The Deep Secret, of the Puerto Rican Day Parade | WAR AGAINST ALL PUERTO RICANS | crowntownent
Colonialism is an act of violence, this is why the United Nations call for an end to it. Colonialism not only robs a people of their freedom but it also violates their soul and sense of self. This history is not taught in an effort to keep us loyal and faithful to the very system that rapes our land and our people. The good people of the USA were also manipulated in the name of cooperate greed. I pray we may continue to learn that we are all one and that survival depends more on respect and cooperation then in conquest, divisions and competition.
LikeLike
Mil gracias por compartir la hermosa historian de puerto Rico naci y me crie en new York y puerto Rico tengo mi nene y mi nena que me Dan las gracias por haberte naci do en puerto Rico yo termite mi escuelamsuperior en rincon pr y estudie enfermeria luego mi ex ingress en el army done venci obstacles y mi Orgullo que gane la electionde school bord member at large la primer a Latina en fort Stewart ga mi Orgullo es tango de ser puertoriquena y mi nombre esta en washington que viva puerto Rico
LikeLike
ISRAEL CABALLERO BAYAMON THANKS FOR DA LIT ON MY FLAG AND FAMILY ITS GOOD TO KNOW WE STAND STRONG FOR WHAT WE LOVE OUR ISLA DEL ENCANTO!
LikeLike
Cynthia cruz
Born and raised in buffalo n.y.
Proud too be a Puerto Rican ..,,
LikeLike
100% Boricua de Ponce, Gracias por toda la informacion.
LikeLike
I marched in 1958 in the first Puerto Rican Day parade along with my sister and childhood friends. Of course it wasnt any where near what it is today. We formed a group in Brooklyn (Trinity Church) led by a woman named Sra. Rivera. I too was born in El Barrio (110 & 2nd ave) but raised in the Red Hook section of Brooklyn. My parents were born and raised in Mayaguez, Puerto Rico and came here in the late 40’s. Its so odd that we Puerto Rican’s were so hated when we came here especially NYC) because this is our country as Native Americans. I recently saw fit to explore my Ancestral Roots and had my DNA tested. I found that we Puerto Ricans have the same gene that identifies American Indians and that can be traced pretty much to all the Virgin Islands. American Indians migrated from all over this country and some came together as the Iroquis Nation. Made up of several different tribes in New York State. We carry their blood in our veins as well. I now live in Cincinnati, Ohio and as can be expected, there are very few Puerto Ricans here. On the 4th of July, I fly my PR flag. I really could care less what anyone thinks. I am PR first and American second and Im proud of it. Show your pride as PR’s and dont allow anyone to make you less than.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I was born in New Jersey but i was raises like a Puerto Rican the cooking, the speaking reading an writing…..
LikeLike
Great and interesting information. I was raised in the states and returned to Puerto Rico to raise my own family and at that point in history it was a great decision. I love being Puertorrican.
LikeLike
Hello and thank you for this great but sad article. I am Puerto Rican “by marriage”! (My ancestry is Germanic with a bit of Austrian, Scottish and Northern Irish in too.) I was born in 1951, so I would not have been able to argue intelligently why, back in those years, having a Puerto Rican flag was punishable by jail time, when other ethnic groups displayed their flags on their porches, and in parades. Also, the 1st Amendment right of free speech is given to all Americans. One could argue that a Puerto Rican – American’s right of free speech was being violated if Puerto Rican- Americans were not allowed to be in possession of their own flag. Very strange law, very strange thinking. But thank God the stupid law was repealed. And in my opinion, the best Broadway musical of all time, WEST SIDE STORY, was a result of the angst and prejudice that Puerto Rican- Americans had to endure. God bless them and Puerto Rico.
LikeLike
My Mother Senor Francisca Betancourt -Pabon. From Rio Piedra’s Puerto Rico. Had 4 children born in Puerto Rico. Anyway I was born in Manhattan 110 Convent Ave. Kincerbocker Hospital. Born 1954. My Mom would introduce myself to her friends and would always say My daughter was born here in the United States. That was such a bi g deal to her. Honestly I would have loved to have been born en Mi Orguyo Puerto Rico. That would have been a dream come through for me. Don’t get me wrong. I live the United States of America. But my Heart will always be with Puerto Rico. I taught my children and grandchildren to be Proud to be Peuerto Rican. WEPA. Que Viva Puerto Rico simepre
Ms. Patricia Ann Betancourt.
LikeLike
Thank you for that touching story……I Will luv this flag forever and always…much luv to my Puerto Rican family!
LikeLike
I read the comments and feel pride for my people but at the same time feel deep sadness for the burden that colonialism has imposed on my people, forcing more than half of our nationals to leave Puerto Rico. I don’t know how to translate the word “desarraigo” but it’s very painful to perceive it in my people. ¡Viva Puerto Rico Libre!
LikeLike
La pura verdad! No hay duda de eso… A nosotros digo a mis padres se la hicieron de cuadritos! Aunque haya yo nacido allí a mi tambien experimente lo que se hablo aqui! Cierto por demas….
LikeLike
La pura verdad! No hay duda dd eso…
LikeLike
Proud to be Puerto Rican……The Puerto Rican flag is beautiful How I remember we come long ways my parents are from Mayaquez moved to Bronx in 1950s then they moved to Milwaukee.. -we as well had our share of parades.
LikeLike
I thank you for this post…..I hope more of our youth is reading this and more….I was born in the island and brought here when I was about 10….not a lot of History taught in school, so I am always interested in getting anything I can get my hands on to learn about my culture, my people, my roots……
LikeLike
Gracias por compartir esta historia los Boricua siempre hemos sido unos guerreros y defendemos nuestra bandera.
LikeLike
now I understand why my parents were very protective we’ve come a long way
LikeLike
I was born in Mayaguez PR…came to Brooklyn when I was 3….then we moved to NJ and lived with mostly non-Puerto-Ricans….there was prejudice and internal racism as well (for which I take full responsibility). But when I was about 16yrs. old I was asked to be on a float at the PR parade in Newark…. I felt pride for the first time based on my heritage….it was short lived, and it took a while ,but eventually I realized that the GIFT of my Puerto Rican heritage and the endowment of the talents of my parents and grandparents and all those before them has helped to make me who I am. For this I am grateful. Your explanation of why the flag is so significant touched me. I am going to make sure that I display my flag with more pride from now on. I am an American and I love my country, but my island is a part of this country and I will not allow anyone to diminish my heritage ever again! Thank you.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I am so happy that I learn something more about my history…..I am so glad to be a Puerto Rican!
LikeLike
Que bonita bandera, que bonita bandera, que bonita bandera es la bandera puertorriqueña.
LikeLike
Growing up in Brooklyn NYC as a Puerto Rican , my experience was disrespect Boriquas in the 70s and 80s would definetly lead to your ass getting beatdown. I grew up middle class around the unknown middle class Puerto rican that has always existed. There was a race war riot between ol skool italians and Puerto Ricans in the early 70’s in park slope brooklyn, the puerto ricans won but the cops would retaliate.Always remember Puerto Ricans are not submissive never have been and will never be. Good hearted yes we are.
LikeLike
Me arodillo ante ti Isla Bella el destino me alejo de ti pero mi corazon se guedo en mi Puerto Rico!!
LikeLike
Si ven las fotos, ven que hay banderas con azul mas claro y otro oscuro. El verdadero color es el azul añil o sea el azul mas claro. El azul oscuro es de Texas y no es de Puerto Rico. Se colo entre la bandera Puertorriqueña. Asi que de ahora en adelante ya saben cual bandera comprar para honrar nuestra verdadera bandera Puertorriquena. Gracias.
LikeLike
I did not know the history but I really appreciate this article! Que bandera bonita! Que Viva Puerto Rico!!!!!
LikeLike
I hear you, But the sad thing is that there are some Puerto Ricans are also into the way of American life and have nothing in common to those that are still Struggling in the American way of life and not wanted by the white anglos of this country. We have so many Puerto Ricans Veteran in this country that are eignor by the white Supremacists in the All Job Markets in this country. Things are not going to change as long as the Supremacists in Washington are in control and taking care of those people just to get their votes too maintained their Status in Puerto Rico White Majority Rules and the Struggle in Puerto Rico will continue. Don’t be fooled
That is way Puerto Rico Will Not become a state while the Island’s Government is controlled by Washington so the people of Puerto Rico will continue to be slaves same since 1898 and before that by Spain. That is the legacy of the people Of Boriqua,As long as they continue to Put your food in that Table by Washington., It does matter whether you are White, Black, Red, or Taino Indians. While the U.S. and Washington is in control and The WORD IS SALVES BY ANY COLOR, Will Continue in Borinquen.
LikeLike
My husband is Grandson to Lolita Lebron
LikeLike
Born in NY in 1952 and raised in “The Bronx”. My mother is from Lares, my father form Morovis and married a man for Ceiba. At the age of 6 I remember having a special need friend whom I protected very much. Her mother would take me to her house to play but I always had to leave before her father arrived. One day he arrived unexpectedly and when he realized I was a “Spic” he grabbed me by the arm and placed me out the door in a very violent fashion. First experience of many… All my life I have been worked hard at changing ignorant perception of whom we are. I had passed our traditions to my children and grandkids. Three Kings Day, Pasteles, limber and sofrito, and even though the last three generations were born in the States, we ALL speak Spanish. Not too long ago my young granddaughter was asked what she was. Her response was “I’m a Hispanican”. Maybe she is on to something.
LikeLiked by 1 person
My dad was sitting in a car, I’d say back in 1973-4 a police officer taps on his side of the window told him to get out of the car, My father gets out the car asked “why are you asking me to get out?” I’m not doing nothing wrong. Police officer told him cause you’re a spic! and beat him so bad he ended up in the hospital, walked out after regaining his conscious, My father was scared to report this, and of course to who? Years later the same cop was arrested for beating another latin, by this time Latinos were fighting back, the officer was charged, my dad read it in the newspaper, no one believed it or didn’t dare to believe it, BUT Here we are today. Celebrating our culture in all parts of N.Y.C speak up!
LikeLike
My dad was sitting in a car, I’d say back in 1973-4 a police officer taps on his side of the window told him to get out of the car, My father gets out the car asked “why are you asking me to get out?” I’m not doing nothing wrong. Police officer told him cause you’re a spicy! and beat him so bad he ended up in the hospital, and walked out after regaining his conscious,My father was scared to report this,and if course to who? Years,later same cop arrested for beating another latin, by then Latinos were fighting back, he was charged, my dad read it in the newspaper and almost, no one believed it or didn’t dare to believe it, Here we are today. Celebrating our culture in all parts of N.Y.C speak up!
LikeLike
When my grandparents came to NYC for a better life , my grandfather faced so much racism. He worked so hard to try to support his family and keep his sanity but it was very difficult at that time for that generation. My fathers cousin that was born in PR Barceloneta, El Piche Bajo would tell me how she saw her uncles come home from work sometimes on payday beat up and robbed of their weeks pay.
The beating up subsided because enough was enough , but some men turned to alcohol to mend the humiliation of being called Spics.
My grandfather surpassed all of those obstacles and worked so hard to.support his family and get them ahead that he became a big boss in NYCHA and my grandmother was a seamstress. They both spoke , wrote and understood the English language well. So I am proud of them. They raised me and I am proud to be a Puerto Rican American. !
LikeLike
Always great to have a history lesson. I was born in Puerto Rico (Arecibo) and came to the mainland when I was 6. My father did not go to NYC but to the suburbs of Chicago. Imagine being one of a handful of families in a 98% European American town and going to a Catholic school. No ESL, not allowed to speak a word of Spanish, no one that wanted to rent to you, no places that allowed you to eat there. Yes, it was tough but we survived and now at the young age of 60 with a myriad of experiences through a variety of corporate jobs in mainly white corporations I realize that despite the challenges, there is always someone that has it worse. Family and our culture helped to keep us going – as more and more people from the island came – we had our own parties, bought homes, assimilated, inter-married and survived.
I did not have the same experience as those PR’s that lived in Chicago/NYC in mostly Hispanic neighborhoods, I have no accent but I visit the island, have always claimed my PR heritage and have tried to educate my fellow American’s about the Puerto Rican American in their midst. The majority knows so little history and geography – guess they were napping when it was taught in history class :)….so whether brown, black, red, yellow or polk dottted…I have tried to educate those about the small island in the Caribbean, the Spanish American War, the spoils of war and our unique “commonwealth” standing. Yes, we come from an indigenous people, Tainos, mixed with African, European (Spanish, Dutch, French) even Asian (they came to build the railroad in PR) and we continue to mix, assimilate, acculturated (sp) ourselves into a variety of groups while still being proud of our roots…Boricua’s – and our flag, and yes, our lovely island….Que Viva Puerto Rico
LikeLiked by 1 person
We’ve come a long way
LikeLike
I am sorry that you find so little to appreciate, in your own heritage. But I certainly hope that this changes. There is much to appreciate and treasure.
LikeLike
Mark,
Law 53 (the Gag Law) made no color distinction. Ten years in prison, period.
LikeLike
Yvettte,
My mother was from Caguas, too! The area known as La Mesa. Thank you for your comment.
LikeLike
M. Velasquez,
I had to learn it myself! They don’t teach this history. We have to research and build it, brick by brick.
But we will. They will not take our history away from us.
LikeLike
I live in Puerto Rico and in Levittown, Toa Baja, the founder of the Puerto Rican Day Parade, Agapito, is still alive and well. He tells the story to anyone who wants to sit in his bar in Ave. Dos Palmas (that avenue has recently been renamed with his name). Great Article.
LikeLike
We will be Number one forever and ever.
LikeLike
rn in Puerto Rico and raised in the United States in the state of New Jersey although I love this country for everything is Stan my first love and my first passion is my island my heritage my deep roots my family my pride and my people in that order… Listen to all music and to watch other people and their culture and our children and our lives continue the culture in present-day sounding amount of prise always keeps my head up high and shoulders back. God bless the island of my birth…nd people of my culture. …….WEPAAAAA
LikeLike
I never new why so many Puertoricans would hang they’re flag.This is very interesting! My grandparents on my dads side are from Puertorico, and I’ve always wanted to visit the beautiful island of my heritage. I would also like to visit Mexico since I’m Puertorican and Mexican also. I get this alot from people! ( I thought Puertoricans and Mexicans didn’t like eachother!) Haha. In my eyes we’re all created equal and I’m very proud to be a latin American.
LikeLike
YES I REMEMBER, I WAS BORN IN EL BARRIO (E 102 ST) AND I WAS IN THE AIR FORCE WHEN MY SISTER AND AN ACTIVIST, GENERA VALINTIN PUT TOGETHER (1957) THE FIRST P.R. PARADE ON 3RD AVE FROM 102ST TO 110ST.
LikeLike
lets not forget we are also from the greatest nation The United States of America!!!! If not for this we would not have this parade at all!!!!!!🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
LikeLike
Llegue a N.Y. En el año 1958 Soy Cayeyano de pura sepa y no hay un solo Dia que no extrañe mi bella Isla!!!!Mi Bandera es mi Orgullo donde quiera que me pare!!WEPAAA
LikeLike
Fascinating truth that more need to share.
LikeLike
All fine and dandy when read on a Web site but in real life here in North Philly these so called Puerto Ricans put up the flag and leave it up until it is faded, shredded and unrecognizable. My parents were Puerto Ricans and I am an American born in the USA. My allegiance is to this country. I always ask what is it that makes them proud to be PR and the answer always is because it is beautiful. So are many parts of America. Never do I get an economical, educational response. I was born in 1950 and am old enough to see many of the things PR have done here and it limited considering that they have had 65 years to accomplish something. I have seen many sale their vote than vote responsibly. As welfare dwindled they quickly establish SSI to replace. Many refuse to learn English and now it was be considered a disability and an eligibility for Social Security. I can go on but what’s the use.
LikeLike
I was always proud of being Puerto Rican and take pride in our flag, never knew the history of the flag. Very interesting. Love my people, food, music, island and most of all my flag. Que viva P.R
LikeLike
Which flag are you talking about? The flag with the light blue triangle, or the one with the dark blue triangle?
LikeLike
I PRAYED TO GOD WHEN I WAS 11 YEARS OLD THAT HE WOULD LET ME REPRESENT THE PUERTO RICANS AND HISPANICS THRU MUSIC..I WAS INVOLVED WITH MUSIC SINCE I WAS A CHILD. MY MOTHER ENCOURAGED ME AND WANTED ME TO BE INVOLVED WITH MUSIC BECAUSE SHE SAW IT IN ME. IN MY EARLY YEARS I HAD BEEN AWARE OF THE DISCRIMINATION TOWARD THE PUERTO RICIAN PEOPLE, AND DID NOT UNDERSTAND IT. I WOULD ALWAYS BUY THE ” HIT PARADE ” MAGAZINE IN ORDER TO LEARN THE NEW SONGS THAT CAME OUT…ONE DAY I WAS LOOKING AT A NEWS STAND WHEN I SAW FOR THE FIRST TIME A SONG MAGAZINE FOR BLACK SINGERS ..??? WHAT WAS THAT ABOUT ?? THERE WERE SONG BOOKS FOR WHITES AND ONE FOR BLACKS…BUT NONE FOR THE HISPANICS ? I SAID IN MY MIND..WHERE IS THE ONE FOR THE PUERTO RICANS OR SPANISH? THIS IS WHEN I MADE MY PETITION !! I FELT THAT THE MUSIC WOULD HELP BIND US AS ONE FAMILY…BECAUSE MUSIC IS LOVE. IN 1950 THE MAMBO ERA BEGAN IN NEW YORK CITY AND EVERYONE WAS LEARNING TO DANCE IT. I HAD ALREADY LEARNED TO TAP DANCE SO IT WAS EASY FOR ME.IN 1951 I DECIDED TO MAKE A MAMBO GROUP IN MY BLOCK. I HAD NO SCHOOLING IN THIS, BUT I DECIDED TO PLAY THE ” TIMBALES ” DRUMS. MY GROUP QUICKLY BECAME A TEN PIECE ORCHESTRA ! I SOON STARTED TO PLAY IN ALL THE BOROS OF NEW YORK CITY ! BY 1953 I STARTED PLAYING AT THE PALLADIUM BALLROOM ON BROADWAY…IT HAS BEEN LIKE A MIRACLE…GOD DOES ANSWER PRAYERS. THIS YEAR MAKES 64 YEARS OF MY INVOLVEMENT IN MUSIC…I HAVE REPRESENTED ALL PEOPLE WITH MY MUSIC. IN 1959 I REPRESENTED THE UNITED STATES ARMY ON THE ” ED SULLIVAN SHOW “.THE REST IS HISTORY !! AMEN !!!
LikeLike
wow I didn’t know that thank you for the history much love to our people and much respect to the old timers that had to endure that life but now we just continue with pride and love que viva Puerto Rico Por erencia de mis padres wepaaaaaaa boricua soy Caguas 🇵🇷❤️
LikeLike
WOW. I was a little girl when we proudly paraded down the streets of New York with our Puertorican Flags and sang ‘Que Bonita Bandera’ but was too young to know or understand the truth behind it all. Now it makes so much sense, I saw the passion in the adults around me but didn’t understand. Now in my 50’s I learn this very important part of my history as a 1st generation New Yorker. Thank You for the knowledge. 😌
LikeLike
American and conservative..no foreign wars for the globalist a or socialists..retain our culture and most of all no Statehood. Preserve our uniqueness!
Louis Diaz Mill Valley,CA
LikeLike
Is a great memories the first one i went i was 4 years know I have 53
My mom went before I was born how bless we are Thank you Jesus Bless Puerto Rico and Puertorican
LikeLike
Ty for this post. Makes me more proud to be Puerto Rican. Love my flag. represent for culture . teach our youth.
LikeLike
Qe. Horgullo. Para. Cualqier. Orgullosa. Pr. Me. Encanta Mi Bella Bandera Y Mi Bella Gente Qe Dios Nos Bendiga a Todos Y Recuerda Para. Alante Siempre En La union Esta La fuerza😆😆😆😆😆😆
LikeLike
Thank you for shedding light on this bit of history.
LikeLike
DESDE LA INVASION NORTEAMRICANA A PUERTO RICO EN 1898 NOS HAN CONVERTIDO EN UN EXPERIMENTO EN TODAS LAS FACETAS DE NUESTRAS VIDAS. POSIBLEMENTE LA MAS CRUEL ES JUGAR CON NUESTRAS CONSIENCIAS PONIENDONOS A PELEAR HEMANOS CONTRA HERMANOS HACIENDO CREER QUE BAJO UNA COLONIA PODAMOS SER IGUALES O MEJORES QUE ELLOS SIN ACASO TENER LOS PODERES DE UN PAIS LIBRE COMO LO SON ELLOS. NO ESTAMOS EN CONTRA DE ALGUNA PERSONA NORTEAMERICANA, ESTAMOS EN CONTRA DE LA POLITICA DE ESE PAIS SOBRE NUESTRA PATRIA. SI ELLOS ESTAN ORGULLOSOS DE SUS ACTOS EN UN PAIS LIBRE, NOSOTROS QUEREMOS TAMBIEN TENER NUESTRA PATRIA LIBRE Y SOBERANA CON ORGULLO Y AMISTAD CON EL RESTO DEL MUNDO.
LikeLike
I was born and raised in New York City where people fool themselves into thinking things have really changed when they actually haven’t – bias is just expressed in more sophisticated and latent ways. I picked up this book last month and though I was aware of many of the things covered, I found it an excellent (and required) read.
LikeLike
Es bonito ver Nuestra bandera y todos los puertorriqueños celebrando pero serial bonito qué la puedan televisar en algun canal.como hacen con otras parades ya qué no todo el.mundo puede viajar a NY a verla en persona.
LikeLike
Great watching the PR parade from my residence in Puerto Rico. Beautiful article. My family moved to NY back in the 50’s and we watched how they were treated, some good and bad times but we survived. We experienced the name calling but other ethnic groups had their own, which I will not mention. Let’s move on with peace on this earth because that is all we have left for the days to come. Viva Puerto Rico!
LikeLike
Pingback: Vieques shines at the Puerto Rican Day Parade/Vieques brilla en la Parada Puertorriqueña, June 14, 2015 | Vieques Blog
I was born in NY, parents are from Mayaquez, first time I visited P.R, I fell in love with the beautiful island, I always cry to some songs of the island, I’ve volunteered for the National Puerto Rican day parade since 1998, I will continued, till I can’t no more, thanks for this information, I love my Country, people, music.. Que viva Puerto Rico..
LikeLike
Que Viva Puerto Rico Hoy Mañana y Siempre 💯🇵🇷 Que Bonita Bandera Es La Bandera “PUERTORIQUEÑA”WEPA SOY DE PURA SEPA💯🇵🇷💋💋💋
LikeLike
I have been living in the states since 1989 I’m from vega Baja and I always carry my Bandera
LikeLike
Thank you, Jesse. I really appreciate it.
LikeLiked by 1 person
This is “must read” history. Thank you! for Posting
LikeLike
Spic actually comes from “no spic ingles”
LikeLike
My Mother and father are from Yauco, Puerto Rico. They had 10 childred, 5 was born in Puerto Rico and the other 5 in Brooklyn, East New York. We are all 100% proud to be Puerto Rican and New York Ricans. We were poor but we had survived and today we are free to travel back and fourth to our beautiful Puerto Rico Island and our beautiful USA …………. YO SOY BORICUA PA QUE TU LO SEPA!
LikeLike
Thank you for all that imformation I really enjoy it ..love it .
LikeLike
Reblogged this on Sobreviviente – The Work of a Revolutionary Lover.
LikeLike
I am thankful for the bit of history. I am the product of a Puerto Rican father and African American mother. I am on a quest to learn of my Puerto Rican heritage. After being separated from my dad for 23 yrs we were reunited and spent his last 21 days together. I am grateful to God for giving my brothers an I that priceless opportunity. However, I missed a lot of first hand history from mi narrador. Thanks again
LikeLike
Soy Jose Morales dorta, edad 85, vine a Nueva York en el 1949. Gracias, QUE BONITA BANDERAEs… Recibimos azotes por la policia montada, palos y otros abusos físicos por los de a pie; pero nunca pensamos en retroceder. La Bandera nos unía como ningun otro símbolo. Que bonita Bandera; En mi Viejo San Juan, Puerto Rico del Alma
LikeLike
I’m 80 years old born in Caguas P.R. We came to NY in 1955. Was born an American but with a PUERTO RICAN heart.Love my Island and respect my Flagg. QUE Viva P R.
LikeLike
I am a Native American who is part of the indigenous people of this planet. To be indigenous means that we are part of the original people who first walked this planet; from which all races come! Our origins are from one continent before it was split into the many continents that was at one time called Pangaea! As the continent Pangaea began to split and break apart we indigenous people; a people of color were left on every continent of the world, from Russia to China, to Europe; everywhere all originating from Pangaea and called Afriquiya or Africa which means, “split apart from!” That means that all of us whose origins are clearly from a people of color need to recognize that all have suffered persecution from the slave invaders who took our culture and gave us theirs through their language, dress, religions, food etc. That is why we are sick and in such turmoil; we are confused about who our brothers and sisters are. I remember the story that my father shared with me about what he observed as a member of the U.S. Army Air Corps as an officer in training ( he was a Tuskegee Airman)! He spoke much about how even during World War II in the 40’s, that Puerto Rican troops did not want to be billeted with Black troops because they did not want any association with being black or a people of color! As we were given different names by the European and made to think that we were different; even in his miscegenation through rape and all the rest, we gradually began to loose our identity even to the point that we did not know that we are the Native Americans, known as the Guale, Yamassee who the Spanish Conquistadors found living here when they arrived in this land that used to be called Turtle Island. Part of our doctrine is to embrace all people of color as the remnants of the indigenous peoples who occupied this Earth long before any European came here or even before the European made his appearance only 4004 years ago. We must come to find our common root and come to embrace each other so that we can build our own Kingdom and stop waiting for the European to give us one that he creates only for himself!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Que viva PUERTO RICO!🇵🇷🇵🇷🇵🇷🇵🇷🇵🇷🇵🇷❤️
LikeLike
Puerto Ricans had played numerous roles in the American history yet do not get credit for it. Since the Revolution War up to the present, many Puerto Ricans fight for the freedom we take for granted in this country, yet presently we are treated as second class citizens (whatever that may mean). As I have been called a SPIC ever since I can remember, I totally agree because we changed the negative acronym from Spanish People In Custody to the positive acronym Spanish People In Control or my favorite Special Puerto Rican In Control. Puerto Rique~a hasta la muerte and beyond!!!!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I was 10 years old when we first came to NYC., 1952. We lived on East 14th. Street and Ave C. We were the second Puerto Rican family on the block. We had our problems with the white kids, mostly Polacks and Italians, also the blacks. From 14th street down to 1st, between Ave A and D, it was mostly Puerto Ricans. They tried to fight us, it was a losing battle we were too strong. The blacks were the first ones that, since they couldn’t beat us asked us to join their gang, The Sportsmen, we became the Sportsmen Matadors, then came the Dragons all Puerto Ricans. We were a force to be reckon with. We became fearless, fight anybody that would try to fight us. As a result, got my head busted, 5 stitches fighting the Italians. We kicked their butts. Respect was won.
LikeLike
I suppose it only stands to reason the wrongs were right in 1957, my birth year. As an Anglo and 36 years with my Puerto Rican wife who came with 4 Brothers and 2 Sisters, Mom & Pop out of Manhattan, I have been blessed with all the extended family and our visits back to Mayaguez. My family cannot even consider life in any other way but the greatness and love of the heritage. We never need a parade to know how special our entire family is. We also will always know of the repression that occurs because of ignorance and injustice. Today is a new day and a new beginning and we must show the love and be the leaders to be looked up to for guidance. Let our conscience be “OUR” guide. Respect to All!
LikeLike
It’s an interesting article but most of all it represents our roots and how so many Puerto Ricans became part of this country, becoming ours too. Were proud of our heritage just like so many inmigrants who arrived to America hoping to have a better life , we were inmersed due to the Spanish American war, and sice then we obtained our American citizenship and have struggled to be a part of this country through education and hard work. Puerto Ricans offer their lives in so many wars, and are proud of it. Our next step is to become a state in this unios , so that we have true representation and not be in the position of begging for favors!
LikeLike
What’s the point of a flag without a country? Puerto Rico should be a part of the USA as much as Cuba or DR should be, which is to say it should not. For years the USA has bought and paid for Puerto Rican pride and has repackaged it into a corporate event. Maybe one day the Puerto Rican people will realize that being a second class US citizen has its perks (more money, the chance to have more material things and the best perk of all, the chance to die for American corporate interests in pointless wars all over the world) compared to being just another third world country, but being in charge of your own affairs is priceless and is just
what the Puerto Rican nation, and all peoples that want to be free deserve.
LikeLike
Beautiful…
LikeLike
I now that am not the only that has its ups and downs in this country, But as a family coming from Puerto Rico in 1952 Living on 182 Street between St Nicholas Ave and audubon Ave. We were the First to live in the area and peaceful it wasn’t because that was Irish Territory, we use to call it El Fanguito and every Saturday @10pm at night about 40 Irish would block us in, But the 50 or so of the Puerto Ricans stood there Grown. This went on every Saturday night during the Summer until one night a Police Officer fire a shot into the air close to the Irish that were blocking the street and ran for cover.After that incident everybody stay in their Block. School wa another Matter. But that is another story for another time. I went to the old Clark JHS in the Bronx where the Latin Kings wanted me to be on their Gang I said no, They stay away from me. We move back to 180 st, Then to 153rd street in 1959. This is a very long story. So I will say this my father was a WW1 Vet, and I did 5 years in the Navy. Here am living in the finger lakes Region for the pass 24 years and push myself not to let people from work change who I am and It has been easy dealing with Suicidal Tendencies for the pass 12 years. I consider myself Damage Goods. But I now that I will be On la playa de Bay in ashes and be happy Again…… Sorry for the long story. And I feel better by writing it with sorrow in my Heart for those that had it worse then me in this so call Free Country. I am 100% Puerto Rican and I hope that one day Puerto Rico will one day get their INDEPENDENCE. Its the BLOOD in our vianes. Sorry for any Misspelled words.
LikeLiked by 1 person
WOW
LikeLike
Very Proud to be Boricua or Puerto Rican. and an American Citizen. I am very happy and proud that our Rita Moreno was the first actress to win an Oscar. Rita Moreno at this time will be recording a CD in Spanish since all the movies and records were in English. She was born in New York and English was her first language. I am very proud of Rita Moreno at the time she became famously known there was a lot racism. Love my Puerto Rican Heritage and have never denied my heritage. When I came to New York from Ponce, Puerto Rico. MY brother register me in the Bronx Catholic school, St Anselms o sea San Anselmo the teachers were Dominican Nuns they were all Irish and started at 7th grade I had just graduated from the 6th grade in Ponce Puerto Rico. I lived in the Bronx our neighborhood was mostly Jews, Greek, Italian. and a few Puerto Rican, I always attended to the festivities of the Greeks and Italian since they were very religious and had the best food and music. I love the Greek men they love to dance with the other men and the ladies were seated watching their men dancing, Also we had the men singing La Paloma in Italian, Greek and Spanish, Those were great days.
Of course is sad when people change their last name to English. Like from Santiago to St.James and never admit that they are PUERTO RICANS we are born US citizens so why change your last name.
Que viva Nuestra Bandera Puertorriquena.
LikeLike
That is a very enlightening part of Puerto Rican culture. Just like that fact that many of the youth & even most adult get upset & even hostile about being called a “SPIC” but can’t tell anyone where it came from. It is not a racist remark. I was created by the NewYork Police department. It stand for.
S= Spanish
P= Person
I= In
C= Custody
The amazing thing is how many Boricuas can get offended but couldn’t answer that. Go figure how far we have come as a people but still won’t bother to teach there children any part of our culture.
LikeLike
am so proud to be Puerto Rican. Born in Kings County Hospital. Brooklyn. 1962.
LikeLike
Es un gran orgullo la bandera de PR, q nos identifica n l Mundo, pero no nos da derecho a menospreciar a los que nos mantiene por muchos Años quemando la de USA hoy en el área dl Condado San Juan PR, Hipócritas
LikeLike
Reblogged this on Never.Too.Broken and commented:
Que Viva Puerto Rico!! Sad to know how “DEEP” the purpose was that created the tradition of the Puerto Rican Parade. Que Bonita Bandera!! Learning this, I will absolutely celebrate with deeper pride every year from here on out for MY BEAUTIFUL PUERTO RICAN ANCESTORS AND PEOPLE!!!
LikeLike
QUE VIVA PUERTO RICO HOY MAÑANA Y PARA SIEMPRE
LikeLike
Wow my grandmother told me a similar story when I was just a child almost 50 years ago, while reading this article I became very emotional. Sometimes in life we get so caught up in surviving and trying to get ahead that we forget those who paved the way for us. I’m very grateful to you for this history lesson……I am very proud of where my parents came from, so I say today teach your children the value of being bilingual and the benefits that come with it……God Bless Our Beautiful Island and Our Beautiful Flag…….I Am So Proud To Be Puerto Rican……
LikeLike
We are here to stay. The membership to this club (USA) has been paid in many, many ways. It is not a matter of being wanted by them or seeking their approval. The tenure has been earned…
LikeLike
Reblogged this on Beers, Balls and Bacchae and commented:
Que bonita bandera…..que bonita bandera…..que bonita bandera es la bandera Puertorriquena
LikeLike
G
racias por reescribir una parte de nuestra historia tan importante para el desarrollo y crecimiento de estas nuevas generaciones que no han vivido en carne propia las injusticias hacia nosotros como puertorriqueños y como seres humanos.
LikeLike
I left an earlier post. I would like to leave another. I was born in Vega Baja, PR and was brought to Brooklyn, NY when I was merely 18 months old so that Brooklyn is my hometown but Puerto Rico is in my blood and always will be. I am completely bilingual and bicultural and love it in its entirety. But I will never ever deny my roots. I could not trade it for any other. I was confronted by some prejudices but never anything close to my ancestors (all Puerto Ricans) who came before me to the “mainland”.
I was so happy to have had the opportunity to read and educate myself as to how the Puerto Rican day parade of 5th Ave in NYC came about. I also, felt the pain and the anger and the confusion that my ancestors must have felt at that time. We have come a long way but we have so much farther to go.
Thank you for the information which was posted and for educating us.
LikeLike
Que Bonita Bandera, que bella isla, que humilde nuestra gente, que linda nuestra musica, que deliciosas nuestras comidas y ricas nuestras costumbres y nuestra musica que llena el alma. Pa’ lante boricuas, Pa’ lante siempre.
LikeLike
Luis Angel Beltrán, My parents also preached speaking both languages will be advantages, in time! They were so right, we as a culture need to be representatives of those that paved the way! Que Viva Puerto Rico Y nuestra bandera, Que VIVA!
LikeLike
How sad it must have been for those Puerto Rican living in this land and not being able to express their love for their and and flag.
Thank you for that touching story……
LikeLike
I AM A PUERTRICAN 100 💯AND PROUD OF IT,,
LikeLike
Never knew the true meaning, i knew of the independence of the island, but not in this depth. My grandparents migrated from umacao back in the day to the south Bronx. Growing up never knew why the parade was so important. Viva Puerto Rico!!!
LikeLike
Thank you very Much for all the Information it is very good , Thank you love every word always good to alot of the pasty . I was one of the people who went through some of those things, way back when.
LikeLike
Great!
LikeLike
I am so Happy That My Mother and My Uncles came to New York City. In the 1950’s. My Mom had me in 1954@ Knickerbocker Hospital. @110th. Street In Convent Ave in Manhattan. As I tell everyone I am from the Bronx the truth is I was born in Manhattan raised in the Bronx. I experienced rasism first hand. We Were the First Puerto Rican Family to move Into Little Italy the Bronx. The Fordham Bald Eagles came for my 2 brother’s. Now how the Hell do you figure 2 Against at least 50-60 Or More Gang Members. Wow.
LikeLike
ES VERDADERAMENTE CIERTO QUE CUÁNDO UNO LEE ÉSTAS COSAS DE NUESTRA HISTORIA DE PUERTO RICO HACEN LLORAR A UNO ESPECIALMENTE CUÁNDO SE DICE LO DÉ LA BANDERA, Y HOY DÍA QUE CON TANTO ORGULLO PODEMOS CELEBRAR NUESTRO DÍA DEL DESFILE LOS FESTIVALES LA TRADICIÓN QUE CON TANTA EMOCIÓN ESPERAMOS ESE DÍA QUE DÍOS BENDIGA NUESTRA ISLA NUESTRA HISTORIA NUESTRA GENTE LA SOCIEDAD AMÉN, AMÉN.
LikeLike
So proud of the part of me that has PR heritage!
LikeLike
Gracias por esta informacion. Sere Boricua hasta que muera. Gracias. Es un honor.
LikeLike
Wow I just learned something very valuable to my Puerto Rican culture and it is true when I hear either.or song it brings years to my eyes and chills to my spin. I’m proud to call myself a Puerto Rican. QUE VIVA PUERTO RICO MI ESLA DE ENCANTO. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
I Mexican and a proud Latino ” Que Viva Puerto Rico baby! “
LikeLike
I love PR the flag is beautiful but it’s a shame that the injustices of the past has lead to so much exgagerated Bull Shit!!!!!! A good history of the injutices suffered by the American occupation and the Puerto Rican opposition needs to be written, not one based only on the injustices suffered by the Puerto Rican people. Many of these laws were on the books and never enforced, not all state side people hated PR’s I was born state side in NY in 1931, much of the hatred for the US is unfounded we have suffered prejudice, nothing that which was suffered by our Black brothers and sisters.
LikeLike
I enjoyed The Puerto Rican Day Parade Today. June 14, 2015. God continue blessing ALL the Puerto Ricans all over the World and their beautiful FLAG.
LikeLike
This is “must read” history. Thank you! Posting forward…
LikeLike
Wow! I never knew this. Great story to tell our future Puerto Rican children!
LikeLike
Beautiful and very informative! I got choked up reading it, very eloquently written. We are a very proud group. I’m proud of my heritage! Y la bonita bandera de la preciosa, el encanto Puerto Rico, mucho orgullo y amor!
LikeLike
I am proud to be an American of Puerto Rican Heritage!
LikeLike
Reblogged this on It Is What It Is and commented:
Que viva Puerto Rico!!! My country!!!
LikeLike
My father was in that first parade and subsequent others. He spoke of those who came in the 40’s and 50’s as pioneers who paved the way and took all the hard knocks. When he retired to Florida he returned for the parade as an elder sitting on the podium with others like him. He spoke of the hardships when pressed but never whined or complained. It was the lot of those displaced trying and striving for a better future. Something future waves of immigrants would encounter and experience as did the Irish and countless others before us.
LikeLike
Wow,,, amasing that hardly anyone knows about this history, first time I hear about it… I’m shocked!
LikeLike
i have learned something today, i am very proud to be a puertoriquena.
LikeLike
Pingback: Puerto Rican Flag: Source Of Pride, But Did You Know In 1948 It Was Illegal To Own One | ctlatinonews.com
Great!!!
LikeLike
I never knew this part of our history. Born and raised in NY, it was very important for my mom & dad that I speak English correctly, but also speak Spanish just as well. Now that they are both gone, I feel the need to connect even more to my roots.
LikeLike
Amazing piece! Now I understand why so many Puerto Ricans want to display the Puerto Rican flag with so much passion.
LikeLike
I spent my young life in Boston, and it was hell for us,seeing the police destroy our parades and put us in jail.
LikeLike
Thank-you for explaining this important part of Puerto Rican history! What an awful thing to have to go through just because you had a flag…. Yikes! So happy to be able to understand why the Puerto Rican parade brings such patriotism, love and togetherness!
LikeLike
I liked the parade
LikeLike
Reblogged this on … but I digress.
LikeLike
❤
LikeLike
Reblogged this on Efrain Ortiz Jr..
LikeLike
Enjoy the parade today I know its gonna b great. Have fun my plps!!!! Just b safe & enjoy the food its great.
LikeLike
Que vivan Los puertoriquenos!!!!!!!
LikeLike
Thank you for sharing this knowledge about my beautiful flag.
LikeLike
Very Interesting…
LikeLike
Grasias por este documentario de lo que significa la parada, ahora entiendo de donde vino este amor para mi preciosa bandera y ahora se de donde vino Nuestra tradition de la parada y de poner nuestra bandera en al to en donde quiera, no importa si hasta en la luna. Compartire en mi pagina, y pues claro con mis hijos.
LikeLike
The Puerto Rican flag is beautiful I live in Vermont and I’m not ashamed of showing it on my hat.
I wish I had time to attend the Parade this year. Rita Moreno is and will always be an inspiration to other Puerto Rican artist.
LikeLiked by 2 people