As a state, we would also be able to vote for the U.S. president and have a stronger voice in the government. We could help create laws that benefit the people of Guam. We would also have better access to government and funds that could help improve our lives.

Being fully part of the United States could also bring more attention to our island and help others learn about our culture. While some may worry that our identity might change, I believe we can still keep our traditions and way of life while also growing and improving as a state.

As someone living in Guam, I want a better future for our island and our people. I think statehood would bring more opportunities and benefits that could help us while still honoring our culture and who we are.

To add, this choice can also help us protect our CHamoru culture. If we did become a state, we may lose more of our traditions over time. Also if we become independent, there is a high chance that we will struggle financially. Free Association can give us more freedom without cutting ties completely.

As someone who lives in Guam, I care about our people, culture, and future. Free Association seems like the best way to move forward with more freedom, while still staying strong and supported.

Free association would let Guam be more independent. Which means the people and government could make more decisions for themselves. Guam would still get help from the U.S.

like money, protection, and other support So we wouldn’t be completely on our own.

I think this is better than statehood because if we became a state we could lose some of our culture and have to follow all of the U.S. rules. As someone who lives in Guam I think it’s important that we have more freedom to be ourselves but also still have a strong connection with the U.S. Free association gives us the best of both through support and freedom.

Gaining full independence may seem ideal in terms of preserving Guam’s culture and traditions, but it raises serious concerns about financial stability. Without consistent support or new sources, our economy could suffer dramatically. There’s little point in gaining independence if we can’t sustain ourselves.

Then there is statehood, which would make Guam practically American. While that may bring many benefits, it risks our local identity. U.S citizenship for all and national policies would reshape Guam into a reflection of the mainland. It’s hard to preserve a distinct culture when the influence dominates every aspect of our future lives. At that point, would Guam still feel like Guam? It may begin to feel like we’re trading our identity while still relying on the U.S for everything.

 As someone who was raised on Guam my whole life, I want what is best for the place I recognize the most. It may not be my cultural origin, but I still cherish the island’s beauty. Right now, I don’t believe Guam is at its best. From the way I see it, free association feels like the best path. It’s a big step, but one that could protect the essential parts of the island’s identity.