Given the history of this nation, I cannot imagine anyone in these hallowed halls, defending colonialism. This great country founded to end colonialism can never justify continued colonial rule over Guam. As events around the world constantly remind us, once a people have tested freedom, there is turning back. For us, it is not a question of whether colonialism will end, it is simply a matter of when, and how it will come to an end. The people of Guam, by virtue of our relationship with the United States over the past 100 years, have been able to witness, but not experience, true democracy.
Democracy has been so close, it is taught, illustrated, and held up as ideal.
Yet, representative democracy does not exist in the Guam-U.S. relationship. We are frustrated, and we are losing patience. Today, we bring our Commonwealth quest to you, because Congress has the plenary authority and responsibility under the constitution, to resolve our status. We can work together now, to forge a democratic partnership worthy of this great nation. But, if we delay, the spirit of cooperation may fade and a collaborative opportunity may be lost.