Turmoil in Cuba

I would be remiss in ignoring, and not having some sort of a post about the current situation in Cuba. Many of you are aware, via our national news and social media, that for the first time in many years mass protests broke out on the streets all across the island recently. Let’s be clear about why. I think that we may get a skewed version when we listen to both Cuban-Americans, and our politicians.

Are Cubans wanting more freedom? Of course. But these unprecedented protests have arisen largely because of their current situation due to Covid. The pandemic has hit normal Cubans incredibly hard. Most of you know that the economy of Cuba relies on tourist dollars. With virtually no tourists having visited in the past year, many people are not working, food has become incredibly scarce, and with scarcity and a change of currency, prices have risen dramatically.

Furthermore, although vaccinations are taking place in Cuba right now, they were very slow to come. Why? Good question. The government there blames everything on the blockade still in place by the US. But that rings hollow as it has been used to excuse almost everything, and Cubans are no longer buying it. So, with food almost non-existent and beyond the means of most Cubans due to price, combined with Covid still spreading throughout the island, people finally had it and took to the streets.

From the friends I talk to, the situation there right now is very bad. People are not continuing to protest, because the crack-down by police was so severe. Most are staying in their houses, and hoping that they will see a peaceful resolution to the situation, and that vaccinations will continue and ultimately their economic situation will improve. It is both sad and frustrating to see such good people in such a difficult situation.

I have trips scheduled starting in November of this year. Of course, I will continue to monitor the situation in hopes that Cuba will be ready to have us. In the meantime, think good thoughts for our island neighbors to the south, and if you feel inclined, continue to press your representatives to again start a relationship with Cuba that could facilitate needed changes.