Manuel Maldonado-Denis explores how his categorical imperative can shape national liberation for the peoples of our Americas, particularly emphasizing indigenous and Black individuals.
The Unyielding Spirit of National Liberation: A Call to Action for the Peoples of Our AmericasAs we navigate the complexities of our modern world, it's easy to get lost in the noise of global politics. But amidst the chaos, there exists a beacon of hope – a flame that has been burning bright for centuries, fueled by the unwavering determination of the peoples of Our America. This is the spirit of national liberation, a categorical imperative that demands our attention and action.
In 1981, a gathering of writers, poets, and scholars converged in Havana, Cuba, for the Primero Encuentro de Intelectuales por la Soberanía de los Pueblos de Nuestra América. The conference was a testament to the power of unity in the face of adversity, as participants from across the region came together to confront the threat of Ronald Reagan and the United States. But it was not just about resisting external forces – it was also about recognizing the inherent weaknesses and vulnerabilities of imperialism.
Manuel Maldonado-Denis, a Puerto Rican political scientist, delivered a stirring address at the conference, which would later be published as "National Liberation: Categorical Imperative for the Peoples of Our America." In his essay, Denis reminds us that national liberation is not just a milestone, but a fundamental right – one that has been denied to our people for far too long. He outlines the main tasks of national liberation: the struggle for national independence; the struggle against subtle and overt forms of colonization; the struggle for economic independence; and the socialization of means of production.
But what does this mean in practical terms? Denis is clear – national liberation requires regional unity, a collective defense against the monster of imperialism. It demands that we recognize our mutual interests and come together to fight back against the forces that seek to divide us. This is not just a call to action for governments or leaders; it's a demand from the people themselves.
The history of Our America is replete with examples of resistance and struggle – from Tupac Amaru to Fidel Castro, our ancestors have fought tirelessly for freedom and sovereignty. But we must not forget that national liberation is not just about independence from external forces; it's also about building a new society, one that is based on the principles of socialism.
In an era where division and suspicion are being bred amongst nations and peoples, Denis's words ring truer than ever. We need to recognize our shared struggles and come together in solidarity. We need to understand that national liberation is not just a distant dream; it's a living, breathing reality that demands our attention and action.
So what can we do? First and foremost, we must educate ourselves about the history of Our America – the struggles, the triumphs, and the setbacks. We must recognize the inherent weaknesses and vulnerabilities of imperialism and understand how they are being exploited today. And most importantly, we must come together in regional unity to defend our sovereignty and build a new society based on the principles of socialism.
The peoples of Our America have been denied their fundamental rights for far too long. But it's time to reclaim them. It's time to rise up and demand national liberation – not just as a distant dream, but as a living reality that we can achieve together. The spirit of national liberation is alive and well; let us fan the flames and ignite a new era of resistance and struggle for our people.
In conclusion, Denis's essay serves as a powerful reminder of the categorical imperative of national liberation – a call to action that demands our attention and participation. As we navigate the complexities of our modern world, let us not forget the unwavering determination of our ancestors and the unyielding spirit of national liberation. Let us rise up and demand our fundamental rights; let us come together in regional unity to defend our sovereignty and build a new society based on the principles of socialism.
The time for action is now. The peoples of Our America will no longer be denied their fundamental rights. We will rise up, we will resist, and we will fight for national liberation – together.
