"¡No a Esencia!" Echoed With Solidarity and Pride as NY-based Puerto Ricans Join the Call for Civil Resistance
A coalition of diaspora organizations convened a rally that began in El Escambron, Puerto Rico and concluded on the steps of J.P. Morgan’s NYC headquarters last week. “Proycto Esencia” has drawn significant opposition from local organizers in Puerto Rico and the diaspora. What is the “The Esencia Project” you ask? It is a proposed residential-tourist enclave for Boquerón Bay, Cabo Rojo—financed by JP Morgan of New York and developed by Reuben Brothers and Three Rules Capital. The project seeks to take over approximately 2,000 acres of land, encompassing three miles of beaches in Punta Melones, Cabo Rojo—to build more than 900 elite residences, 5 hotels, 2 golf courses, a private airport, and more. Hoping to impact JP Morgan Chase’s funding capabilities, the diaspora appealed to all New Yorkers who hold accounts with the bank to send them a message and take their business elsewhere. Organizers and environmentalists say the region's geology cannot support such large-scale construction, not only would it increase the risk of disasters such as landslides and erosion but it would severely disrupt Cabo Rojo’s wetlands and fragile ecosystem.
MIL GRACIAS!