If we knew that these friendly, helpful people would in time be granted permanent residency by the federal government, setting in pace the eventual weakening of indigenous control of these islands, it never would have happened. If we knew that these people would disrespect us on our own native soil, state remarks in the media that they “welcome” an indigenous rally, endorse something that was never ever contemplated when they signed a contract to work temporarily in these islands, we never would have allowed such a massive influx of aliens into our islands.
It is completely unfair that the Interior Department would recommend granting these foreigners residency or citizenship and somehow fail to keep in mind that the indigenous people have a fundamental stake in maintaining control of their own native islands. What were they thinking? The interests of the native inhabitants should take precedence over the interests of foreigners. Period.
The indigenous people of the Northern Marianas must realize that allowing some 20,000 foreigners to remain here permanently and eventually gain U.S. citizenship will spell disaster for our people. We will be overrun by aliens in our own homeland. We must not allow this! Rise up and protect our heritage, our islands from being hijacked. We must keep it in indigenous hands.
The guest workers that came here under CNMI immigration should not be allowed to remain permanently — unless they have gained residency or citizenship through marriage or some other legal channels. It was never proposed when they signed their employment contracts. It is not fair to the indigenous people.
This issue is bigger than any single individual. This issue is about the maintenance of indigenous control of the Northern Marianas — political control through elected office and economic control through Article 12. If we go the way of Interior’s recommendations, we can kiss our islands goodbye.
CHRISTOPHER ATTAO
CONCEPCION
Chalan Piao, Saipan
