WHY TO CUBA?

In 1960-61 the Cuban people achieved national literacy so that by 1972 they were able to fully participate in the democratic development of a new constitution—which for over 31 years since, they have wholeheartedly and with intelligence utilized as the basis of the Cuban legal system.

For nearly half a century Cuba has adhered to a program of domestic social and technological improvement, conducted international relations in an open, honest, cooperative and constructively helpful manner.

The Cuban systems of nomination and election of officials is of all the world’s the most democratic and workable.Through research, free education, environmental restoration and preservation, and full nutritional and medical attention to all citizens, Cubans have steadily improved their country and their well-being.

Cuba cooperates extensively with the UN, is non-aligned, and is socialistic. It is because of Cuban enlightenment and warmth of outlook and climate that APROXIMADA is to sail to Cuban waters.

Radio Habana Cuba shortwave 9.82 MHz
Granma International www.granma.cu

App Applegate at The Bay of Cienfuegos. photo: Rivkah Sweedler

I've been down to Cuba and saw that it's true, they fought for ideals and that's still what they do.

Their children are healthy and learn with great joy. A stick and a ball are the most common toy.

The streets are a pleasure by day or by night. There's safety and calm, a policeman in sight. This uniformed figure does not cause alarm, here there's no danger that he will do harm.

The traffic is mostly by foot, bike or horse, with some motor cars, trucks and buses of course. The motors are fewer; their absence is pleasant. Old cars so well cared for do add quite a presence! Those bicycle taxis, yes, "bicis" are called; with one person's effort, two people are hauled.

The Cubans all have by their own Constitution, a school and a job, and decreasing pollution.

Dental and health care are free to all Cubans, with housing and food seen as rights for all humans. Many are trained now as doctors and nurses. Lack of meds and supplies are their two major curses.

But all is not perfect, some problems severe. This dollar economy causes great fear. It's made even worse by the US blockade designed to destroy what the Cubans have made.

They share what they have, though it may not be much.Elections are free, with that neighborhood touch. Everyone works, though their pay is quite small; but this is the prize: independence for all.

by Rivkah Sweedler with additions from Barbara Dane