> Puertoricans are American citizens by name only - they can’t vote, for example.

The veterans who died for the continental US beg to differ.

> If you want to help, becoming a proper, independent country could be a good start.

The US government has the full might of the US military, a reluctant political class and an economic interest in keeping it that way. It's difficult -- whether you're pro-statehood or independence.