We condemn in the strongest terms the recent racist identification of Puerto Rico as a “floating island of garbage.” The Sisters of Divine Providence have proudly served alongside the people of Puerto Rico since 1932. We are privileged to count native Puerto Rican women among our membership, and we are so grateful that they make God’s providence visible as they daily serve in health care, education, pastoral care, social work and social justice concerns.
We have accompanied our sisters, their families and those they minister to and among through many challenges on the island, most recently the ongoing devastation caused by Hurricane Maria and the subsequent earthquakes.
The people of Puerto Rico have profoundly enriched our community through their strong sense of social justice, deep family values and vibrant cultural traditions. Their resilience, leadership and generosity of spirit continue to inspire us. We celebrate our Puerto Rican sisters for their courage, perseverance and humor. We are honored to call Puerto Rico our home and its people our family.
Nosotras somos Puerto Rico!
Sister Michele Bisbey
McCandless