The Third Space of Puerto Rican Sovereignty: Reimagining Self-Determination Beyond State Sovereignty

Abstract

The relationship between Puerto Rico and the United States has long been a story of empire and colonization. From the island's annexation to today, Puerto Ricans have struggled for their right to self-determination. The fiscal control board, housing crisis, austerity measures, Hurricane Maria, and the recent resignation of former governor Ricardo Rossell6 have revived social, economic, and political debates about Puerto Rico's status. This Note illustrates how struggles for self-determination and sovereignty manifest themselves beyond the legal and political realms, inspiringlocal fights for a just recovery in the country. It argues that the third space of Puerto Rican sovereignty exists outside of dominant expressions of citizenship and state sovereignty.