Portal de Periódicos da CAPES

Puerto Rico, the 51st state: the implications of statehood on culture and language

2017; Taylor & Francis; Volume: 42; Issue: 2 Linguagem: Inglês

10.1080/08263663.2017.1323615

2333-1461

Kelly M. Torres,

Global Education and Multiculturalism

The issue of statehood has been a controversial topic for many decades in Puerto Rico. This has resulted in a total of four referendums for statehood taking place on the island. What is unique about the last referendum, which occurred in 2012, is that the majority of residents on the island voted in favor of statehood. Although the implications of statehood are currently unknown, one problem that could arise is a change in the native language (Spanish) and culture of the island. Therefore, this qualitative study investigated Puerto Ricans residing in different geographic regions (i.e. Puerto Rico and Florida) to determine if they have differing views regarding statehood, commonwealth, and independence. Differences were found among participants in that they had diverse opinions as to how statehood could impact the island in terms of the language spoken (Spanish or English), the culture of the island, the educational system, and the economy.