Three Uráyoan awardees: Raphael Salamanca Jr., Carmen Cruz, Joe Conzo Jr. – Image Credit: Latino Sports
BRONX, NY — On Friday, December 13, Latino Sports was proud to help organize and sponsor the third annual Uráyoan Awards, one of the most prestigious recognitions given to Puerto Ricans who have improved the quality of life or brought pride to the Puerto Rican community—whether in the mainland United States or on the island of Puerto Rico.
The awards are presented by Respect & Justice 4 PR, Inc., a non-profit organization dedicated to educating the public about and advocating for the exemption of Puerto Rico from the oppressive Jones Act. This federal law prohibits foreign cargo ships from directly docking in Puerto Rico. Instead, foreign goods must be unloaded in Jacksonville, Florida, transferred to U.S.-flagged vessels (the most expensive shipping in the world), and then transported to the island. This requirement raises the cost of goods in Puerto Rico by up to 25%, compounding economic hardships. The island imports 83% of its goods, suffers from an 11.5% sales tax, a 40% poverty rate, and an average annual income of less than $25,000.
Proud to have two incredible woman who helped coordinate the event. Raquel Olmo, Julio Pabón, Kimberly Pabón – Image Credit: Hector Beauchamp/Latino Sports
This year’s honorees were:
- Councilman Rafael Salamanca
- Carmen Cruz, President of Silent Procession for Puerto Rico
- Joe Conzo Jr., South Bronx historical photographer
- The Puerto Rican movie Los Reyes de la Salsa
After the awards ceremony, attendees enjoyed the New York City premiere of Los Reyes de la Salsa based on the lives of Richie Ray and Bobby Cruz two giants of the Salsa genre. The event also featured a special introduction of a Bad Bunny video that celebrated Puerto Rican culture. Presentations made by the Master of Ceremony, Raquel Olmo and Julio Pabón, President of Latino Sports drew attention to the devastating impact of the Jones Act. This combination of honoring cultural achievements and addressing systemic injustices made the evening an unforgettable experience.
The event was made possible by the support of Hostos Community College, Latino Sports, BronxCare Health System, MLB, Malta India, Printed Graphics NJ, and Marisco Centro.
Latino Sports members, Julio Pabón & Hector Beauchamp in the house working this great event – Image Credit: Latino Sports
Those who braved the cold to support this vital event were treated to an entertaining and learning experience. Their presence and contributions were important to help bring attention to Puerto Rico’s challenges and celebrate its resilience.
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Mildred Martinez
December 17, 2024 at 4:41 pm
To WASHINGTON D.C., addressing the ongoing poverty and oppression in Puerto Rico, the government can take several key steps.
Firstly, _exempting Puerto Rico from the Jones Act_, which requires goods to be transported on US-built and US-flagged ships, would significantly reduce shipping costs. This act has been in place for nearly a century, and its removal could help alleviate the 25% increase in costs due to this requirement.
Secondly, _investing in local industries and economic development_ would help reduce Puerto Rico’s reliance on imports, which account for 83% of its goods. This could involve supporting small businesses, promoting tourism, and developing sustainable agriculture.
Thirdly, _addressing the 11.5% sales tax_ and finding alternative revenue streams could help alleviate the economic burden on low-income households. This might involve introducing a more progressive tax system or exploring other sources of revenue.
Lastly, _increasing the minimum wage and implementing policies to support low-income families_, such as access to affordable healthcare, education, and job training programs, would help address the root causes of poverty.
It’s worth noting that Puerto Rico’s poverty rate, while disproportionately high compared to US states, is similar to that of the Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas (38%) and lower than American Samoa (54.6%). These differences in poverty rates between US states and territories are rooted in the political relationship between each territory and the United States.
Any efforts to address poverty in Puerto Rico must acknowledge and address the disparate treatment of Puerto Rico and other US territories by the US Congress and Executive Office agencies.
In a country touted as the richest in the world, it’s unconscionable that so many people are oppressed instead of uplifted. Rather than perpetuating a system where the wealthy 1% hold power, we should strive for a world that welcomes growth, positivity, and flourishing communities for all.
Check out the websites:
1. Pervasive Poverty in Puerto Rico: a Closer Look – CentroPR
2. 5 Causes of Poverty in Puerto Rico – The Borgen Project
3. New Report Exposes Regulatory Excesses of the Government of Puerto Rico and Proposes Public Policy Solutions
4. 24 Workforce Policies and Programs to End Child Poverty in Puerto Rico
5. Plus More 😵💫😳😇🙏🏼✅