A week after Hurricane Maria ravaged Puerto Rico, many Americans struggled to connect with loved ones on the devastated island.
Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor found herself in this dire situation, but thankfully was able to reach most of her family members by Tuesday.
Due to this experience, Sotomayor — who was born and raised in the Bronx by Puerto Rican parents — felt “especially connected to my Puerto Rican brethren” and wanted to let them know that “you are not alone.”
On Tuesday, Sotomayor decided to record a message of hope in Spanish to the residents of the U.S. territory.
Her words were later broadcasted on WKAQ 580, a local radio station in Puerto Rico.
Radio commentator Jay Fonseca posted her message to Facebook, which is translated below by New York Magazine’s writer, Cristian Farias. She said:
This past week I’ve felt especially connected to my Puerto Rican brethren here and those on our beloved island. I’m grateful that I was able to hear from many in my family. But I know that many other people are still going through uncertainty as they await to receive news from their loved ones.
Our hearts are anguished in the face of so much devastation and destruction that [Hurricane] Maria caused. And now we face the great task of reconstruction. But above all, we are united in the firm belief that Puerto Rico will persevere. The incredible spirit and strength of the Puerto Rican people is unbreakable. Our island has faced innumerable challenges throughout the centuries. However, each and every time, Puerto Rico has emerged stronger. And we will do so again.
For the people on the island, I want you to know that you are not alone. Your families and friends, along with private and public organizations, have already begun to mobilize to send help. Through our ability to work hard, the Isla del Encanto will be reborn as a beacon of hope.
Puerto Rico will not only survive this. It will bloom once again. My beloved Puerto Rico, I embrace you with love and hope. I hope to see you in a not-so-distant future.
Hopefully her words will help people on the island and the mainland slowly heal.