Puerto Rico is the oldest colony in the western hemisphere. 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 November of 1897 after many years of struggle against Spanish colonial rule, Spain granted Puerto Rico autonomy. This autonomy was short lived, however, because in July of 1898 the U.S. Army landed at Guánica, beginning the invasion of Puerto Rico. In December of 1898, in violation of the Constitution of 1897 established by Puerto Ricans, Spain ceded Puerto Rico to the United States, and Puerto Rico became a colony once more.

SEPTEMBER23.ORG 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.