In 1975, more than 80 percent of the people of Saipan, Tinian, and Rota voted to approve a Commonwealth Covenant with the United States, shunning any attempt at independence.
On March 24, 1976 – 47 years ago today – President Ford signed the covenant into law, giving birth to the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.
In this half century, the Commonwealth has struggled, endured, boomed, grown, and all the while stayed true to the ancient values of the Chamorro and Carolinian peoples.
In these modern times, as the Commonwealth resolves from a dark hour of plunder, there is great hope for the future of the people precisely because of this Covenant.
This unique relationship gives the people, through their government, the tools they need to surpass the economies of the region.
To overcome adversity.
To prosper families.
To build a future of hope and happiness.
Here is to the great people of the magnificent Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.
Happy Covenant Day!
