Should U.S. Territories Like Guam Be Independent? | AJ+

[@zhubajie6940]

All U.S. territories should be offered statehood or independence by local referendum.

[@Otter-Destruction]

Agreed as all territories all over the world, such as Crimea, or Hong Kong

[@GustavoRodriguez-qr5po]

well Crimea are ethnically russians. so it's part of russia

[@Meirstein]

They are. Puerto Rico constantly has votes on whether or not they want to be a state, independent, or remain a commonwealth. The vote for remaining a commonwealth always wins.

[@emintey]

First let me say that native residents of Guam are American citizens as are those of Puerto Rico, as such they have an unconditional right to relocate to the mainland as any US citizen does and as do Puerto Ricans and they would then have the right to vote. Puerto Rico has consistently turned down statehood leaving open their future, as accepting statehood is an irrevocable step. Guam can certainly organize a referendum on it's status with the US and if through such a referendum Guam or Puerto Rico requested statehood or independence I think it would certainly be granted, it appears from this documentary there is no clear consensus among it's people about the future political status vis a vis the US.

[@emintey]

K M Crimea was not a territory but an integral part of a nation called Ukraine. It's an important distinction. Hong Kong was truly a colony or territory, but it's status a bit more complicated for reasons I wont go into now.

[@danki2000daniel]

80% of people dont even know where Guam is. Especially dont know it's a u.s. territory

[@yasminer3288]

Chocolate Kyle kulinski many did NOT even know Puerto Rican’s are U.S. citizens until Hurricane Maria and Puerto Rico that’s is just 1,150 miles do you really expect for many Americans to know about Guam?? LOL 😂

[@honolulu7793]

Chocolate Kyle kulinski Americans r fool..they will believe in media

[@jeffreyrossman1083]

80% of statistics are made up

[@cmr2079]

Sad, but true. I'm 39 and just learned this today!

[@noco7243]

Where did you get that statistic from? Source?

[@ed167]

As a Puerto Rican I totally relate to Guam's status as 2nd class citizens. I've retired from 26 years in the Army serving as a non-commissioned officer, then commissioned officer. I led soldiers in war. Yet, if I chose to stay on the island I would not be able to vote for the President. And we're harmed by policies such as the Jones Act. I know there are people from Guam that have done as much or more than I for our country. Congress needs to change this.

[@AmigoKandu]

Yes, USA needs to stop booshitten and bring PR, Guam, AS, into the Union. They let Dixie come back into the Union after Civil War, and Dixie backstabbed everybody, kept their "war" going.

[@holygrail7372]

That won't happen. :)

[@DoubeEdged7]

What about the virgin islands or American Samoa

[@angelvenus-africa4161]

Of course they won't change. How would they control the islands simply, if they had something to gain from these islands , like the Caribbean , like mining etc.

[@angelvenus-africa4161]

@@DoubeEdged7 THAT'S EXACTLY WHAT IM SAYING!!

[@BrandonHanson]

Being a mainland United States Citizen. I would love to give so much more to Guam, Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, and American Samoa and their people. After traveling and talking to citizens from all 5 of them. I really wish the citizens and their land could have it better for all they deal with from us.

[@BrandonHanson]

On a side note, thank you to all of the people from all of them for being so humble and polite. Don't change a thing and God Bless.

[@Quepasaaqui718]

As a Puertorican I want my island to be independent, I do not dislike the United States I say we can maintain a healthy relationship but after 125 years it’s time for the shackles to come off.

[@davidcamacho5421]

If Guam were given indepence it would it would just become an economic vessel to China. The current political infrastructure is notoriously corrupt and would sell out our resources in a heartbeat. It is really a matter of the lesser of two evils.

[@christianmerante3730]

Y'all haven't heard about the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. We're an underrepresented U.S. Territory.

[@amykami6830]

All US territories should become a state.

[@Quepasaaqui718]

@@amykami6830 except us Puertoricans we should be independent

[@maryzmijski6087]

I thought you guys were independent.

[@emptyhad2571]

@@amykami6830i disagree

[@jonathangreen2171]

The people of Guam (U.S. Citizens) should be allowed to vote for the presidency and especially its U.S. Veterans.

[@megalodon7916]

If they’re not a state, then no.

[@PajamaPantsMan]

@anderson i agree with what you say, i just can't say it's a sweet deal. Rather a fair compromise.

[@thisusername98]

jonathan Green Welp, governor is our highest offer.

[@gt5228z]

Only if they want to be a state.... Is this what Guam wants?

[@Cuauhtemoc3]

Guam should just become its own country.

[@josephgarcia6523]

Lived on Guam for about a year. Such a tiny island and yes, Anderson AFB and the Naval Station takes a big chunk of the land. It's a fairly Americanized society with the US Dollar being the currency. When I lived there, the independence voice was a small minority but perhaps it's grown now in this present identity politics environment. US govt should pay better rate for the land use...but they do pump a lot of money into the school system. It's tough being a tiny island in a larger world...very limited resources in terms of self-sustaining economy other then Japanese tourism. Yes, a return to local self-sustenance is doable but how realistic in the larger world theater? I fear Guam is doomed to always be under the shadow of a larger power.

They actually have the best of both worlds. If they were a country, they'd be a 3rd world country. They have no industry and grow very little food. Everything is imported. They will never be a state BUT they pay not fed. income tax.

[@personaldanceparty5518]

I was stationed there as well.. I heard that many school children don’t learn about what actually happened on their land during war and before.

[@megasocky]

@@personaldanceparty5518 no. Not until I took an actual Guam History class. Because of the pandemic right now and gov inaction, we LOST all our tourist attraction. Its very likely its just going to be a place of residency and military, and all natives just leave island. Kind of like whats happening in Japan rn

[@epramos6800]

🤣

[@epramos6800]

They're still a very small minority. They think China is their answer. Trade one colonizers to another

[@froilancrisostomo9113]

Thank God Philippines 🇵🇭 Gained Independence from United States 🇺🇸 July 4 1946 (76 years ago).

[@emptyhad2571]

Would have been a burden to take care of anyways.

[@j5daniel182]

You might end up like the Philippines though. "Independent" but run by a few rich families and warlords.

[@winsome_15]

True. As a Filipino, I can't help but wonder what would happen if we remained as a U.S. territory.

[@megalodon7916]

They wanted independence, and unlike states, territories can choose to become independent. They actually would have achieved independence sooner if the Japanese hadn’t invaded. The Tydings-McDuffie Act stated that territorial rule would end in 1944. Because of World War II, independence had to be pushed back to 1946. In any case, that is what the people wanted. It’s sad that it didn’t work out for them, but that’s just how it played out.

[@GabrielUngacta]

@@winsome_15 hmmm. Maybe the Philippines would have become a state?

[@emptyhad2571]

@@GabrielUngactaI really doubt that

[@phoenix5054]

As a Filipino, I wouldn't think this would be a brilliant idea. Since becoming independent, we have been plagued with localized corruption and neo-colonial anxiety to the point of being economically protectionist. The result: mass poverty. Puerto Rico and Guam may not be perfect, but they're in a better position than us.

[@xXxSkyViperxXx]

you sure that corruption and neo-colonial anxiety will simply magically disappear if you surrendered yourself back to said american overlords? that neo-colonial anxiety will just remain as colonial anxiety and the corruption will remain just like the colonial days under spain and the US. no country is immune to corruption especially one who already had a history of it

[@edwinholcombe2741]

@@xXxSkyViperxXx You have a very valid point. No country on earth is completely void of corruption. However, the corruption in the Philippines is at one of the worst levels of all nations and cripples the entire nation that could otherwise flourish. I lived in Hong Kong while it was under the British administration. Back in time it was TERRIBLY corrupt. But the British government stepped in and cleaned it up and now it is one of the least corrupt places on earth. My point is, the Philippines government officials will NEVER clean up the corruption because they themselves are corrupt. The only way for a corrupt nation to be cleansed from corruption is for an outside entity with the power and authority to do it.

[@niclna]

PHTX Then leave Ph then..

[@edwinholcombe2741]

@@niclna He is Filipino. What right do you have to tell someone to get out of their homeland?

[@efrans2627]

Free Guam ✊ Guam not American 👎

[@hanisster]

I myself prefer them to go independent rather than become a US state, because, if they are a state, they still could be left hanging, and still cannot fully decide their future.. Trust in urself, proud of ur identity, and make the most of it. I support for Guam as a nation!

[@emptyhad2571]

They are American citizens. They should be able to vote state or no state

[@Nkkjlkljiiiojiuyhhbc]

​@@emptyhad2571they are second class citizen

[@stevenmoylan166]

Out of all the other territories Guam is the most vital to US military interests. It has been stated numerous times how important the island is and is often referred to as the “unsinkable carrier ship” or the “tip of the spear” & the “Gibraltar of the Pacific.” It’s all military speak for Guam is ‘Where America’s Military Is positioned’ and not necessarily reflective of Where US Constitutional rights may o in Guam’s case ‘not’ apply.

[@theking8356]

It won't be independent. It's too valuable for that, but statehood is possible.

[@warrencardwell6706]

I personally want to thank all Veterans from U.S. Territories for their service in the military. Staff Sergeant Retired U.S. Army Warren C.

[@beshiemariemaebiglangtambl3148]

Guam & norther marianas We are one chamorros! We are one archipelago! Lets all move on the the past and forward for one strong new chamorros for our next generation!

[@corporalclegg9640]

I served in the Army with some great brothers from Guam. Guam and other territories like Puerto Rico, US. Virgin Islands have all more than earned their right to their own choosing. If they want to be American which I have always considered them, then make them a state with full rights.

[@miracletutoring2123]

Corporal Clegg and join the oppressor no way be free from this evil government

[@gt5228z]

@@miracletutoring2123 yeah, China's much more free!

[@CrimsonEclipse]

Guam is a small island. He is complaining about going to Hawaii for medical treatments. It’s not going to be easy to get more medical resources even if it becomes a state. Many states actually are pretty dirt poor.

[@luizmatthew1019]

How tf can French Polynesia have medics even though it's poorer, more isolated and less integrated. Cut the shit.

[@Amberussianbeauty]

The country would be even poorer I mean really poorer if it becomes completely independent

[@AUDS671]

How dare you use the word complain. Stop using Guam’s story and comparing it to other countries, thinking we have it waaaayy better. It’s clear you’ve never lived on my island or seen the struggles MY PEOPLE go through, especially our veterans.

[@heyheyhey40]

Thank you AJ for bringing light to this unfair and unjust situation

[@stevenmoylan166]

This segment has a narrow focus to support a narrative of which is poverty. The island isn’t completely in the shambles. Lanya, has the crew been to some of the nicer planned neighborhoods of Nimitz Hill, Barrigada Heights, Jonestown, Perez Acres, Talo Verde, etc? There is a vibrant middle to upper middle class living on Guam. Just as in the mainland, the island has socioeconomic stratification. This is no different than in anywhere USA.

[@Sovereign_Citizen_LEO]

We on the mainland also have ridiculous wait times for medical appointments (in both the VA and civilian medical establishment).

[@adamr8098]

That's awful. I hope Guam gets independence or statehood soon.

[@NikhileshSurve]

The Philippines was probably too far & too big too continue as US colony whereas Guam may be far but is too small to pose trouble to the US. On the contrary Hawaii probably became a state probably because it was too big to stay a territory. Puerto Rico seems to be most odd in this.

[@NorthernIslands-sb8sw]

That's something to think about. Makes sense to me.

[@ThePoliticalAv]

What they dont mention about the 4 million Americans in territories is that 9/10 of them live in Puerto Rico.

[@auntiekamia]

Independence to my Chamorro sisters and brothers free of the US colonizers

[@emintey]

Perhaps you ought to let you Chamorro brothers and sisters decide that.

[@miracletutoring2123]

Shadow Disorder yeah let's free the land from these colonizers of the USA

[@gussdamuss645]

I'm here for you my Chamorro brother I wish I could say the same for us Native Americans

[@sagittariusone2753]

@Shadow Disorder....Trust me,Guam is much better off remaining with The U.S....Former U.S Possessions that choose Independence from The United States are not very prosperous Countries today,and it wasn't The U.S that ruined The Chamorro Culture and Language,it was 300 years of Spanish Rule.

[@3506Dodge]

Statehood to Guam!

[@edwinholcombe2741]

Shame AJ+ for not presenting the whole situation and not explaining why there is a difference between a territory and a state. What's going on AJ+? Are you trying to manipulate truth?

[@TheMcDami]

Edwin Holcombe pretty much

[@uhohhotdog]

Every territory should have a binding referendum. Statehood or Independence. No other options. One final vote.

[@migovasquez0303]

The funny thing is that Guam, Caroline islands, Saipan were under the captaincy or Manila, Philippines under the Spanish rule. All ruled from Manila. My grandmother came from Guam, she lived and died in Guam near the base. Before 1898 there’s no border between these territories. All of these islands belonged to the Philippines after the fall of Spanish empire. The USA colonized all of these islands and ripped all it’s natural resources. What a shame.

[@EmmettPascual-ft6fb]

MANILA IS WAY BEUNDS IS SHING SEAS CAPTAINCY PHILIPPINES. IT SELFRIDGE.

[@ak9989]

Most of the civilians on Guam work for the Government and military!

[@Just4Kixs]

Current serving in the US military and stationed in Guam. I disagree how the US government has hold on these lands and need to order the military to leave. Being in Guam has shown me that there is nothing good that come about the military being present in Guam in cultural and historical sense.

[@Just4Kixs]

Van Arsdale how would you know that China would move in? How would you know if the economy would crash? Take a look at the neighboring islands that aren't a part of the compact of free association. They're doing well and the Chinese haven't invaded at all. I think you are the one who needs to study world geography, not world history. As it stands, Guam is an American colony as sad as it seems.

[@mapache7317]

The chinese wouldnt invade even if guam became idependent because it just be a similar situation as you have with Japan. If anything it still be the same except not a U.S Territory. But the bases would still be there as they are in Japan.

[@johng5261]

@@mapache7317 when the US left the panama canal, china bought all those old US bases.

[@trigrrug]

Being in the military you should understand the strategic importance of that location. You can and should support better treatment of the culture, environment, and heritage but you also need to look a little further into the future and think about the repercussions of what you're suggesting.

[@TheMcDami]

John Montes Japan paid the US to protect it and give monetarily to help upkeep the bases. Guam couldn’t do that so what would the US have to gain?

[@buickskylark72]

When he said I say I am an American but I say it painfully I felt so ashamed. They are our American brothers and sisters we need to do right by them period.

[@fernandoesteves6428]

@Stephen Jenkins Why are you making things up? Guam NEVER voted for its status. Guam was specifically left out when the rest of the Pacific was decolonized through the UN.

[@JML6988]

Am. Samoa has it worse. They're not even citizens. They remain Nationals, as Chamorros were, before 1950.

[@cm-pr2ys]

Why is everyone saying “Guam Guam Guam” and not “THE MARIANA ISLANDS”. There are more islands in the territory besides Guam! Saipan, Tinian, Pagan, Rota? Hello!

[@jm5390]

The fact that Guam isn't a state is just crazy. The territories like Guam, American Samoa, Puerto Rico, and Northern Mariana Islands, as well as Washington DC, should all be given statehood and fair representation in Congress.

[@Quepasaaqui718]

Our star doesn’t fit on the American Flag I want my island to be independent 🇵🇷💪🏽

[@DoubeEdged7]

​@@Quepasaaqui718 how would you survive economically and you wouldn't be USA citizens

[@myschool2796]

Or how about give Washington DC Statehood and all other territories independence? Its better that way

[@homme436]

A majority of Guamanians want them and the island a part of U.S. Far less people want independence. For a long time, I wondered why U.S. does not include the entire Micronesia its 51st state. The Micronesian people want it. Even more so these days as the aggression of China is growing beyond against Taiwan.

[@wardusmcdi7166]

If the US military left Guam it would be a small poor rock I have been stationed in Guam and the people for the most are very proud to be americans

[@hackman669]

Right to vote for every native in the territories!!!

[@sagittariusone2753]

The people in Guam who seek Independence are a small but vocal group...The Majority of People in Guam do not feel like they are living on a colony but have freedom like the rest of America,and the majority of the people there are proud to be U.S Citizens(Americans) and want to remain with The United States....Despite the problems Guam is facing,the island has the Largest Economy and the Highest Standard of Living in all of Micronesia..That didn't occur by accident...Guam has benefited much from remaining a U.S Territory...More advantages than disadvantages were given to Guam and it's People by remaining with the U.S and remaining U.S Citizens....Remember America saved us during World War 2 and has also helped Guam and it's People during Natural Disasters and continue to provide assistance to the people of Guam....The Local Government of Guam would not be able to support an Independent Guam I can guarantee you that.

[@jesusjesus534]

Of course they can. They can keep the US presence even independent. People saying they need the US to survive our ignorant. You realize they can still us the US dolor and retain US citizenship even independents. It’s called sovereign free association. America has 3 associated countries with it. All of them Guam’s neighbors.

[@sagittariusone2753]

@@jesusjesus534 Free Association Status gives The Local Government of Guam way more power and control,and trust me most people in Guam would not like that,especially if you've seen the way the Local Government of Guam runs things....Guam's Status as a U.S Territory is way more beneficial to the island,which is one of the reasons Guam's Economy is the largest in Micronesia and is also the reason why the people of Guam also have the highest standard of living in all of Micronesia as well....An Independent or Free Association Guam will lead the island downhill in my opinion...Guam has remained with the U.S since 1898 and the people enjoy freedom and a better quality of life living in Guam or to move back and forth from the U.S Mainland..Why give all that up????

[@Lonesome__Dove]

"Even though I say I am an American, I say it painfully " 😭😢💔

[@cartrellsplunge1525]

F*** it I say it probably

[@DeVince-J.]

Chamoru by birth, American by force. That’s what hurts

[@w2385-i2s]

How come Fox News and CNN don't cover this?

[@benhatto]

They don't care.

[@calebduarte8072]

If the big 6 don't approve, it won't get shown

[@gt5228z]

I'm sure they have... .

[@GabrielUngacta]

Not a story that will male them money.

[@dannyy3438]

The man in the beginning took the worlds out of my mouth! I am a part of the Puerto Rican Independence Movement and I always say that The US could have made Puerto Rico a state at any time but they haven’t. WHAT ARE THEY WAITING FOR?! Its come to the point where it’s not just fighting for Puerto Rican independence but ALL of the colony’s independence!

[@GustavoRodriguez-qr5po]

I fully agree. we could of joined Gran colombia as Cuba, the dominican republic and many other countries tried to do. we could of been a federation of latino states the same way Simon BOlivar dreamed of.

[@dannyy3438]

Gustavo Rodriguez EXACTLY!!

[@xXxSkyViperxXx]

puerto rico, philippines, cuba, virgin islands, and guam, northern marianas, fs of micronesia, and palau were all US colonies after the US took them from spain. philippines, puerto rico, and cuba even have the same flag layout with only the colors switched around in solidarity with the coordinated revolutions our countries made before. philippines and cuba got the independence while fs of micronesia, palau, northern marianas got independence with free association whereas guam, virgin islands and puerto rico were left to rot as colonies under the name "US territories". american samoa is also like this and hawaii is just the one that became a state.

[@danaoh2257]

I am a writer from Korea and I lived in Guam for the past 4 years. I want to incorporate my experience of the beautiful culture and emotions of Guam into my novel. Can you interview me lightly about the political climate and atmosphere of Guam from the 1980s to the late 1990s?

[@normanodarbilnagali3147]

Palau has a representative during the Mololos Congress of Pres. Emilio Aguinaldo (President of the Philippines 1st republic after declaration of independence from Spain ) Why was Guam not represented? Didn't they join in the Philippine Revolution against Spain? I understand now why Manuel Quezon ( first President of Philippines Commonwealth ) wanted full independence from the US. Otherwise Filipinos would be second class citizens too. Unable to call themselves American citizens in a US territory.

[@itachi-kun7736]

Im Glad The Philippines became independent from the U.S than becoming like Guam

[@emptyhad2571]

Philippines is a sh*t hole compared to Guam. Why are y’all coming to my country in droves if it’s soo “amazing”. This media segment is narrow and liberal they didn’t show the whole island.

[@sagittariusone2753]

@itachi-kun7736....I grew up in Guam and me,my family,friends and people I met never had a problem with living on a U.S Territory.

[@NippleInflation]

@@sagittariusone2753if you had a choice would you be independent or a state

[@Bolt-9]

Fyi at 0:55 those ships are from the Republic of Singapore Navy

[@theridesharedriver]

I'm Porto Rican and i understand exactly how the people of Guam feel because we are in the same situation. A territory will always be a possession of another country. As a territory we will never be first class citizens. Even if statehood was granted to us they would always consider us as inferiors. Puerto Rico 🇵🇷 and Guam are two islands that have a very high strategic value. USA will always be there. At least as long as they can. If we can serve in the military at least we should be allowed to vote for the president. Also we should have Voting Representatives in Congress. Watching these videos I know how Guamanians feel. Almost half of their island is a military base.

[@edwardrivera1929]

We have the same problem here in Puerto Rico , United States owns the prime lands and we the Puerto Ricans are not allowed to trespass . We are not allowed to vote on the general elections due to the Jim Crows Law , we are not allowed to ship due to the Jones Law , we are not allowed to sell our goods outside the Island unless approved by the US Congress . Many Puerto Ricans leave the Island looking for a better future for their families . We are treated like 3rd Class citizens , like garbage , our schools are in the dumps and the job market is very poor , this is the USA.

[@jujitsujew23]

one of my friends is a navy seal and when I told him about stories like this he didn't believe me. He refused to believe that people of Guam had to go to Hawaii for therapy at the VA

[@DiegoTan]

How about the option of “free association”, like Marshall Islands, Micronesia and Palau? 🇲🇭🇫🇲🇵🇼 While they’re now independent nations, the US still provides defence, funding grants and access to US social services. 🇬🇺

[@gashiyumi3124]

They loss their citizenship

[@masp809]

@@gashiyumi3124 But they gained their freedom.... Freedom>Citizenship

[@gashiyumi3124]

@@masp809 i mean U.S. citizenship

[@kissuhmaiass214]

I don't believe these places should be made States, but they should have a title other than territories that makes them integral and permanently a part of the US where constitutional rights are granted to the citizens of these islands.

[@jesusdavis2941]

Or provide them a much higher degree of autonomy, trade and financial control on their own matters just as the Netherlands did with most of their Caribbean islands

[@kissuhmaiass214]

@@jesusdavis2941 Yes, something like that could work.

[@hartandsoul85]

Thank you for bringing this issue to my attention. I really had no idea.

[@NorthernIslands-sb8sw]

I am glad you do now. I'm from Saipan, also in the Mariana island chain a few islands away. Guam has lots of vocal and active activists of all ages, raise and background. I have learned so much from them while I was there for a long time. I had no idea too. Today, I am as well outspoken and an advocate for our Marianas.

[@riquirodriguez1707]

Being from Puerto Rico i can see the same problems we also have, the same divisions among our people as to what to do with the same old question about our status. what i never hear is our representatives in congress getting together to address these issues that we in US territories have. i had no idea that people in Guam also desire to be a state nor that many others believe in independence. Like Guam so many have served with honor and pride in the military. we were not occupied axis forces during WW2 but we took part in the war, with bases and sending soldiers abroad.

[@jamesscott7944]

If you ask them they would rather stay with us than be independent

[@OceanViewPR-b7i]

It's more than enough time for Guam, Puerto Rico and others territories to either become a state or an independent republic. In the case of Guam and Puerto Rico have been 120 years of colonization. That is shameful, anti democratic, and abusive. The will of the people of the US territories must be respected and not ignored any more enough is enough. Blessings to you all

[@TheMcDami]

Guam is one of the few territories allowed to have their own governing body that is basically left to do as they please which do absolutely nothing for its people but make excuses and fill their own pockets with money that should be going to the people. If left to be independent those few families that own the island would sink Guam to the bottom of the ocean

[@jayhelm9632]

I lived in yigo ( chalan Sarasa rd.)18 years and farmed 10 acres. My prayers go to jaoqin and eddie Cruz .Most of all Delores Cruz whom was a mother to me. RIP

[@ruizart9759]

All American citizens should have the right to vote for President, who makes decisions that affect them, whether they live in one of the 50 states or a territory; the present system is plainly speaking, outright discriminatory and affects millions in Puerto Rico alone, not to mention Guam and all the other inhabited territories!

[@edwinholcombe2741]

They won't become citizens until they become a state

[@ruizart9759]

Edwin Holcombe, People in Puerto Rico have dual citizenship; we are Puerto Rican citizens as well as North American citizens and I was under the impression that people in all the other territories, except those in American Samoa were also citizens of the U.S.A.! However, it really should not matter whether or not they are USA citizens the fact that they reside in U.S. territories should be enough of a factor to be eligible to vote for a U.S. president that makes decisions that affect them! We should also not think that the size of the territories' populations will not make a difference in the general outcome of the total vote, because having the right to vote, is simply a matter of principal! Aloha, Luis Enrique Ruiz ( Ruizart )

[@TheMcDami]

Edwin Holcombe they are already citizens. They can vote by simply moving to the states which they can do at any time

[@TheMcDami]

Rui Zart they can vote along with anyone else in the territories by simply moving and registering to vote in the states. It’s that simple

[@mugiwaramugiwarano1135]

US GOVERNMENT TREAT THEM LIKE THEY TREATED PHILIPPINES BEFORE ITS INDEPENDENCE

[@grey3977]

What does the UN's decolonization committee say about Hong Kong?

[@efrans2627]

Free Guam 🇬🇺

[@beshiemariemaebiglangtambl3148]

Reunification of Guam & Norther Marianas First! One archipelago...One Nation! One Marianas....we can be more strong people to be a state or even Independent !

[@niclna]

Before Guam became US territory, it’s a part of Spanish empire. So most them have filipino ancestry

[@rhodium1096]

Beside Spanish, Mexicans, Central and South America...

[@joanluisaclores2706]

Give Guam independence!

[@yasminer3288]

You don’t have to go that far too know what’s too live in a COLONY; well our government likes to call them “””territories “”” There is Puerto Rico another COLONY I mean “”””territory “””” in which We are second class citizens we send more people into the military than 21 states COMBINED and yet Puerto Rican’s living in the island CAN’T vote for the President; Puerto Rico has been trying for YEARS (DECADES)) for determination and for independence but the U.S. government has done everything in its power to kill any independence movements so who still believe that our country is and actuall Democracy??

[@yasminer3288]

ZÆ F. Listen I AM and I HAVE LIVED in Puerto Rico don’t try to educate me on the island status cuz you’ll lose;

[@yasminer3288]

ZÆ F. What I am telling you is that Puerto Rican’s have tried for DECADES to self determine for either statehood or independence and the U.S. has ALWAYS ignored the wishes of the people in Puerto Rico I KNOW while I was LIVING in the Island I VOTED in a plebiscite that the U.S. NEVER paid attention to ;)

[@yasminer3288]

ZÆ F. And Puerto Rico does NOT have A president it has a GOVERNOR

[@jbaldridge90]

ZÆ F. Puerto Rico has a Governor like the states not sure where you heard they have a president

[@redbenada798]

Puerto Rico is just one step away from being a state. I really don't get why it isn't

[@joaquincruz3447]

IAM SPANISH-GUAMANIAN!!.MY DAD WAS GUAMANIAN AND MY MOM SPANISH.

[@efrans2627]

Guam micronesian not Spanish 👎

[@xXxSkyViperxXx]

72 years ago, the philippines was in the exact same position as guam. guam and the native chamorros should have the choice for independence without simply being used by the US military just like it was in the philippines back then. a consequence of being a US territory in ww2 saw the philippines being bombed to high hell

[@gie-chanofficial22819]

You have your own identity. You deserve to be independent especially Puerto Rico.

[@thekiwiindustry1527]

Y'all need to stop trying to tear us who live on territories away form our country.

[@Nkkjlkljiiiojiuyhhbc]

No dignity what a shame🥲​@@thekiwiindustry1527

[@homme436]

People don't understand when they say let the territory people decide whether to have statehood or independence. Listen. They want statehood, but the US Senate doesn't want it.

[@Solaris_Paradox]

Guam independence! 🇬🇺

[@k00LGuY671]

I'm from Guam I am a US citizen, and a patriot. I want my right to vote for my president. Sadly I don't have that

[@vinrup9568]

Guam is a stolen Territory of the Philippines. Prior to AmeriCUNT acquisition of Guam... Guam & Palau were governed by the Viceroyship of Manila which governed not just the Philippines but also Palau & Guam during Spanish colonial period. When the Philippines declared its independence & proclaimed the first republic in Asia what is known as the Malolos-Republic... the Malolos-Republic of the Philippines recognized Guam & Palau as part of Philippine Territory. Even Prior to Spanish colonial times in the history of what is now Philippines... the Maharlika-Lakanate of Tondo (Manila), both Guam & Palau were tributary vassals of Tondo (Manila)

[@k00LGuY671]

@@vinrup9568 and?

[@vinrup9568]

@@k00LGuY671 you say you're a "Patriot." Patriot of what? the Colonial power that rules your Island? That's not "Patriotism." that's what you call a VASSAL.

[@k00LGuY671]

@@vinrup9568 yah and what of it? They gave me US citizenship, I benefit from being one, and colonizers have also been supporting the island financially, economically, and other benefits. I'm proud to be American. Regardless voting is minor all I have to do is relocate to mainland and have my residence be there and I can vote. lol

[@grj2823]

My dad is a veteran and I’m proud of that I always say it out loud but sometimes the US doesn’t even take care of there local people on the mainland

[@vinrup9568]

Guam is a stolen Territory of the Philippines. Prior to AmeriCUNT acquisition of Guam... Guam & Palau were governed by the Viceroyship of Manila which governed not just the Philippines but also Palau & Guam during Spanish colonial period. When the Philippines declared its independence & proclaimed the first republic in Asia what is known as the Malolos-Republic... the Malolos-Republic of the Philippines recognized Guam & Palau as part of Philippine Territory. Even Prior to Spanish colonial times in the history of what is now Philippines... the Maharlika-Lakanate of Tondo (Manila), both Guam & Palau were tributary vassals of Tondo (Manila)

[@jerryjazzbo2845]

If the people of Guam could vote to become a US state, i wonder what the results would be. Maybe this is a good time to find out.

[@jasonjiang8410]

First of all this is a good comments section there’s comments that look out for the veterans and not just a bunch of people on the internet hating on the US.

[@edwinholcombe2741]

No. They're considered US nationals - not citizens. If Guam votes to become a state then they all automatically become citizens. It someone from Guam moves to Guam (they have that right) they can enter citizenship. US national can have it taken away from them if they become independent - as it happened with the Filipinos. US citizenship can not be taken away so easily.

[@fernandoesteves6428]

What you're saying is innaccurate.

[@jesusjimenezhernandez7163]

It's not just the U.S. territories that are 2nd class citizens it's the U.S. citizens, too, that are classified as 2nd class citizens. ✅✔👌💯

[@Lando-kx6so]

Yes especially Puerto Rico

[@lexreason258]

Why specially Puerto Rico?

[@EmanueL-f2t]

Idk why specially, but I do know that we need ti get that issue wrapped up already so we can finally progress

[@zedek_]

You need to elaborate on why Puerto Rico is somehow _more_ deserving than the other colonies.

[@Lando-kx6so]

Zedek Puerto Rico has never been an independent nation. 300 years of rule & abuse under the spanish & 100 years of rule & abuse & total dependency on the usa.

[@MoonLight-ig5qe]

I always thought Puerto Rico was an independent southern American country

[@tavroaar8173]

Independence for Guam! 🇬🇺

[@vinrup9568]

Guam is a stolen Territory of the Philippines. Prior to AmeriCUNT acquisition of Guam... Guam & Palau were governed by the Viceroyship of Manila which governed not just the Philippines but also Palau & Guam during Spanish colonial period. When the Philippines declared its independence & proclaimed the first republic in Asia what is known as the Malolos-Republic... the Malolos-Republic of the Philippines recognized Guam & Palau as part of Philippine Territory. Even Prior to Spanish colonial times in the history of what is now Philippines... the Maharlika-Lakanate of Tondo (Manila), both Guam & Palau were tributary vassals of Tondo (Manila)

[@hyperhawk27]

Guam, Puerto Rico, American Samoa and Washington DC should all be made states immediately

[@thatsshamso6725]

Wesley J what abt usvi

[@marlonmoncrieffe0728]

None of those should be a state.

[@hyperhawk27]

Marlon Moncrieffe Why

[@marlonmoncrieffe0728]

@@hyperhawk27 Because they should be independent.

[@hyperhawk27]

Marlon Moncrieffe Well they should hold referenda on it then. I bet a lot of people living on those territories would recognize the financial benefits of being formally recognized as a U.S. state and would vote for statehood. I would worry that the economies of these islands would fall into disrepair and possible poverty without their association to the United States

[@JML6988]

Min 6:00- yep "asking permission" from our ancestors before entering isolated areas is the norm. Even if you don't speak Chamorro, it's believed that the intent is understood.

[@LongshotRecordsTV]

I understand his desire to be independent but that won't change anything regarding access. I doubt the US military would leave the island. The fences, checkpoints, and gates would remain. Islanders would no longer be able to join the military as citizens thus losing that "upward mobility" financially speaking. I believe statehood would be best.

[@curtisthomas2670]

Guam has one of the highest rates of military veterans, 1 out of 8 adults having served, yet it places LAST in military vet VA spending.

[@criscrossoz8004]

Same here in Puerto Rico

[@gomamon15]

Very informative

[@leiramen2420]

It is hard for me to imagine how Americans can still be that proud of their country after seeing this. It also should be reminded that unlike all it other developed peers, the US has many 3rd world country problems

[@MidnightMike]

Loved my time in when I was stationed in Guam it is an amazing island, now saying that a majority of the people want the military there and for the most part there is a good relationship between both. It would not be a good idea for the US Military to leave as it pumps a huge amount of money into the economy......

[@OpinionesDeJACCsOpinions]

All territories of the United States SHOULD be able to vote for President! So, we must to amend it to repair this grave offense while also abolishing the Electoral College.

[@hackman669]

And protect natives from foreign conflicts.

[@somalistories5037]

Why are you choosing the greatest country on earth over tiny island? Stay with the US.

[@ginat3592]

This might be a stupid question but if the U.S. wasn’t occupying Guam why would anyone else feel compelled to attack them? What did the indigenous people of Guam do to warrant such hostility?

[@primarymedworks]

It’s quite obvious why we are wanting to move our US forces to Guam from Japan...money. I say Guam should negotiate an agreement that is financially beneficial to its citizens.

[@yadiercosme6430]

I am Puerto Rican my Grandparents fly to the USA just to VOTE 🗳

[@megalodon7916]

If any territory is going to become the 51st state, it’s Puerto Rico.

[@siononalundula1699]

Megalodon unfortunately, Puerto Ricans are very divided when it comes to this issue. It’s almost like 45% want Statehood, 45% want Independence, and 10% are satisfied with the status quo. A referendum with 2 choices: Statehood vs. Independence, would be VERY divisive among Puerto Ricans themselves.

[@megalodon7916]

@@siononalundula1699 Actually, independence will not be an option. It was an option in the first referendum a few years ago. The referendum offered three options: 1. Statehood 2. Independence, with the option to choose to be in Free Association with the United States in order to receive continued aid and protection, which is what the last territory to become independent, Palau, chose when it became independent in 1994. 3. Remain a territory/commonwealth. The result was pretty interesting. 97.18% voted for statehood, 1.32% voted for Puerto Rico to remain a territory/commonwealth, and 1.50% voted for independence with the option of Free Association with the United States. Granted, the overwhelming majority for statehood is largely due to a boycott by the Popular Democratic Party, it still showed a significant increase in the number of voters wanted statehood. Plus, even if voter turnout was higher (it was a record low that year), it’s likely that it wouldn’t have made much of a difference in votes for independence. The result probably would have been largely divided between maintaining the status quo or statehood, since the Popular Democratic Party wants Puerto Rico to remain a territory/commonwealth. Statistics have shown that the most recent generations of Puerto Rico (or at least those of voting age), don’t want independence, with that mainly being popular amongst older generations, particularly those Puerto Ricans born before 1950, and they are slowly dying off. The Puerto Rican Independence Party, the major political party of the independence movement, is barely hanging on, with a significant drop in members and very poor election results. They only have one senator left in the Puerto Rican senate, one Congressmen in the Puerto Rican House of Representatives, and no municipal posts. Even amongst those that still favor independence, the overwhelming majority want a Compact of Free Association, maintaining close ties with the United States, as opposed to completely severing ties with the US. Free Association has a lot more support among younger voters than completely severing ties with the United States. As for the other major local parties, the party with the most elected positions, the New Progressive Party, is dedicated to statehood, the aforementioned PDP, which the NPP only has a slight majority over, wants to remain a territory/commonwealth, and the newest major party (formed late last year), the Movimiento Victoria Ciudadana, has no position on what Puerto Rico should be other than that it shouldn’t remain a territory/commonwealth. Because of this, and the results of the previous referendum, this year’s planned referendum will only have two options: 1. Statehood or 2. Remain a territory/commonwealth. Independence, with or without a Compact of Free Association, will not be an option.

[@zcommando]

nine years living there. They could be a state at anytime with a simple vote. However they would then have zero impact on national elections and then pay Federal taxes. Better to be a Territory.

[@albertbaza2767]

They can vote, just not from Guam. Move to the mainland, register and vote. That simple!!

[@ahmvedakeel]

as if it was easy 🙂

[@johnconnor210]

commonwealth's don't get the same rights as states and that's just the way it is. but for veterans to get denied help they need is wrong. but this happens to vets in the mainland U.S. but if Guam wants to become a state they just have to trust the legal process.

[@Airstrip1000M]

My aunts, uncles, and grandparents voted in the US elections but they are naturalized immigrant from the Philippines and they can vote in every elections in both countries, but thats very pitiful for the people of Guam which are american citizens, and its pretty weird that immigrants has better rights than the people within the US territories.

[@xXxSkyViperxXx]

US territories are just another term for colonies. the philippines was in the exact same position 72 years ago except the US gave ph independence while guam and puerto rico were left to rot as "territories"

[@TheMcDami]

They can vote if they just moved to the US just like any other territory and the are citizens so they can do this at any time

[@tnylam]

The people of Guam, fight for your independance, this is your country.

[@miracletutoring2123]

TBone yes this is our planet earth and world we must fight to free it

[@sagittariusone2753]

Most people in Guam are happy remaining U.S Citizens and remaining a U.S Territory....The United States has given and helped Guam with so much.

[@LifeOdysseyMotivation]

@@sagittariusone2753 *So be it. Tell and spread your message to those Guamanians who are advocating for "independence and decolonization", then let's see and find out what would be their responses and reactions.*

[@sagittariusone2753]

@@LifeOdysseyMotivation The Chamorro's/Guamanians who advocate Independence or decolonization is a small but vocal group,and everyone has their own opinion or choices...I don't need to spread my message in Guam,because most people in Guam have continuously chosen to remain with the U.S since 1898.

[@culture04dc]

lolllllllll

[@vaitautu2624]

I am Samoan,I see the same problem with people wanting citizenship and the vote you will all end being second class citizens in on Guam if it becomes statehood.

[@khadidjakoka6419]

Independence is expensive and its value is known only by great nations. Free Guam.

[@dunnowy123]

The vast majority of Guamanians don't want independence. Guam, as an independent country would be poor as hell. The South Pacific is a generally isolated region and at least the US provides economic support, stability and a market. Typical of socialist AJ+ you'd leverage prosperity to be destitute but I guess "free" to struggle in poverty. I agree they definitely deserve the right to vote, if not statehood.

[@emintey]

lordlors. Guam can hold a referendum, they don't need permission. Statehood has to be formally requested, which the people of Guam have not done.

[@emintey]

Why is what? That they havnt requested statehood? Perhaps because they are not as sure as you are about what they should do? The ball is in their court.

[@emintey]

true. The fact remains that they have not chosen to hold a referendum nor have they requested statehood.

[@wininspn]

Guam is clearly not in the *South Pacific,* and it's located relatively close to Asia, with direct flights from Japan, South Korea and other countries. That has nothing to do with its status as a U.S. territory, nor does the existence of U.S. military bases.

[@dj_fatlip8493]

It's Chamorro not "Gumanian" bro

[@relsba]

If they moved to mainland USA would they be eligible to vote?

[@sagittariusone2753]

@relsba Yes....Anyone born in Guam that moves to the U.S Mainland can vote in Presidential Elections.

[@vernicejillmagsino9603]

@@sagittariusone2753 it includes Hawaii Hawaii is not part of US mainland but unlike Guam Hawaii residence can vote for President

[@mattnd20]

The way this nation treats Guam is shameful!

[@pad9x]

guam should form bilateral relations with many countries, not just give everything to a fading US empire

[@criscrossoz8004]

gb997 U.S. laws dont let these countries do that.

"we" as in guam? Yes, it is a country, it's called the United States of America. If Guam wants to become its own nation than it can vote on it. It would not be wise though. No more fed. money coming in to bail out govguam.

[@mapache7317]

Not to mentione interviewed by a news source funded by sharia based monarchy wih questionable human right.

[@jeffreyrossman1083]

While Guam is undervalued by the US government and exploited for it's military geography, it should be moving to be more integrated with the US as opposed to become independant from it. The number one economic factor for the island is the military, the number two is tourism(most tourists by an extremely large margin come from US allies Japan and Korea), both of which would cease to exist without the association with the US. From Pieology Pizza, to the world's largest K-Mart, to United's Island Hopper flights to RMI and FSM, ALL would cease to exist without Guam's association with the US and would be a severe determent to the island's economy. If the Chomoro people want money and prosperity, the hard fact is that they're in an amazingly good situation when compared to island neighbors such as those under the Compact of Free Association, which struggle with GDP and tourism. Guam has the highest quality of life compared to pretty much any other island nation in the Pacific and it is no coincidence that it is directly associated with it's ties to the US.

[@miracletutoring2123]

Jeffrey Rossman join the oppressor good one

[@weirdaustin757]

Shame on America. I live in America and I'm so sad to hear all this. Give them the right to vote in they want the. To part of America. We are one and one we all can stand strong.

[@edwinholcombe2741]

I have no idea what you just said

[@TheMcDami]

They voted to stay a territory....

[@leovolont]

Hi Everybody, AJ+ should have given a demographic breakdown of the Population of Guam. Guam over the last century has seen a lot of immigration. The Native Chamorros are barely still a majority, while there are a great number of people from the Philippines, and a large number of People from the surrounding islands (Palau and Chuuk, for instance), and many from Korea, from Japan and a lot of people from the mainland U.S.A. who came to Guam with the Military, liked it and stayed. But, yes, the Politics of the Island is kind of sued up by two parties that are both predominantly Chamorro. Chamorros have a kind of monopoly on Government Jobs (next to tourism, GOV is the biggest Business on Guam, or at least those are the Jobs that pay the best). The Chamorros also own the banks and so Chamorros are the Elites on the island. If there is a great deal of poverty, I would suppose it mostly includes the very poor Islanders that moved to Guam from the Outer Islands (for instance, Palau and Chuuk). If Guam ever became Independent, then what would happen to the Near-Majority of Non-Chamorros? Would they get kicked off the Island? Would they be stripped of civil rights (legally as well as now when it is only de facto)? Would there be a genocide against them? Also, has anybody done a study about the success rate for Colonies that have received Independence. I know they are ALL not doing well. There are problem with Currency and Government Stability. for those former colonies that are now successful, well, how long did that take, and what were the struggles they went through? And is there way we can determine whether Guam would likely succeed at being Independent. Right now in Guam, the way democracy works is people run for office in order to get their hands on Government Hiring and Firing and Government Contracts. Right now Guam, which is the size of a City Municipality, gets the Tax's from each person according to the U.S. Federal Tax Laws, and other business taxes (any Municipality in America could only dream of having so much Tax Revenue per capita), but Guam is continuously in debt, while after each new Election Cycle, more cronies have to be hired in and more contracts given out to buy new police cars, buses, and whatever else the pre-election 'smoky room' deals were made for. Imagine if such Politicians were allowed to open up a printing press for their own Currency... just as GOV Guam can't manage anything else, they would not be able to manage a Currency and there would bound to be a Hyper Inflation, as they would try to keep Government Job Salaries at the same above parity rates that they now are. So, yes, without being propped up by the U.S.A. I can't see how Guam would last two years as an Independent political entity. Also, Tourism could not hold up amidst such chaos. Also, much of the Island's Infrastructure is in the hands of the None Chamorros (the reason there is so much immigration, is that Guam has to bring in its Expertise from Off Island, and if they should all flee, the Chamorros would not be able to jump in and fill all of their shoes. So, no, I don't see Independence as viable, if handed over to a Chamorro Elite. but, still, America is taking more than it is giving back. But perhaps Japan or China could take over from the United States and give Guam a better deal.

[@fernandoesteves6428]

Try Singapore as one of the better examples.

[@jesper3785]

As if there weren't enough reasons to dislike the U.S already. If the U.S. wants to keep an increasing military presence on the island they should give them statehood or hold an independance referendum, those are the moral options.