WHO WE ARE Puerto Rico is the oldest colony on the planet.  The history of its colonization goes back over 500 years, to the arrival of Columbus in 1493, and its continuance under Spanish rule for 400 years. In 1898 Puerto Rico gained a form of self-autonomy from Spain when the United States invaded Puerto Rico during the Spanish - American War.  Since then Puerto Rico has been a colony of the United States. The SEPTEMBER 23RD ORGANIZATION is dedicated to ending the 500-year cycle of colonialism so that the Puerto Rican people can finally enjoy their natural right to true autonomy, freedom and independence.