Speech #870087637

The Puerto Rican people have come to occupy a most important role on the mainland as well as on their native island. In New York State alone there are now more than 700.000 persons of Puerto Rican descent. These have by now largely surmounted the early difficulties of adjustment that have met each of the succeeding waves of immigrants. beginning with the first settlers in New England and Virginia. that have arrived on these shores. The Puerto Ricans in New York and in other States are now playing important and respected professional. economic. and political roles. Puerto Ricans spend an estimated $1 billion each year in New York City alone.