The Cuban embargo?

Joe Cerroni — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 12:32:04 GMT

The devil is in the details- because Cuba has such a poor record of paying foreign debts all sales from the US are required to be in cash.

The Cuban embargo?

Victor O Silva, Miami, Fl — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 12:35:23 GMT

Please visit the Ladies in White, they are the true representatives of the Cuban strugle for freedom.

The Cuban embargo?

Steve, Farmington Hills,Michigan — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 12:59:08 GMT

I think it is rediculious that there are still travel restrictions after this long.The cold war is over, and Cuba is not the enemy,There are far worse countries.

The Cuban embargo?

Mike, Fort Myers, Florida — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 13:00:46 GMT

This emargo and travel restrictions are a relic of the cold war, Kennedy and Johnson administrations. Its tiem to move into the next century and quit worry about hurting the feelings of small political groups on south Florida.

The Cuban embargo?

Gary Walters, Hamburg, New York — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 13:05:43 GMT

I feel that the "Embargo on Cuba" should be terminated. As the examples cited in Kerry Sanders blog, individuals have ways around the red tape to provide goods, services, and for those Americans willing to put a 'white lie' out to our own State Department, a vacation in Cuba. The Global Economy makes the regular Cuban people on the island able to obtain albeit by rationing, what they need. The United States government embargo was placed to punish those countries under Communism is a late 50's early 60's policy. Since then, the US has made economic deals with China, with the Eastern European Bloc nations, and are now so intertwined with Russia, (the former Communist USSR country that was the #1 supporter of Castros' Cuba) that we have the International Space Station as a shining example of cooperation with our former enemies. Look what a success that is! Cease the Embargo with Cuba. Bring them into the 21st Century, as its about time.

The Cuban embargo?

Christi, South Carolina — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 13:06:34 GMT

Someone needs to explain why we can trade with China, which is a communist country with a long history of documented human rights violations, but we can't trade with or visit Cuba. Fidel Castro may not be Mother Teresa, but he's hardly the tyrant he's been portrayed as. Prior to the communist takeover, Cuba was the playground of the American upper crust. The poor were no better off than they are now. It's time to base our policy with Cuba on reality, not Cold War rhetoric.

The Cuban embargo?

Patty, St. Louis, MO — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 13:18:15 GMT

"Other Americans come here posing as humanitarians. They apply to the U.S. Treasury Department for a religious exemption, and then fly off to Cuba for a vacation." And, then there are true humanitarians. I have been there every year since 1996. A trip to Cuba is a LOT of work for me. I need a vacation when I get back. I think that the Super Glue anecdote is the most representative of the Cuban life that I've experienced it. Yes, they do occassionally get American brands on their shelves - but it is few and far between. Once can never predict when/where they might find a specific item. When I come into the country, I bring with me personal hygiene items as well as over-the-counter medicines. Often, even if you are one of the lucky ones who has euros or CUCs, there isn't anything to purchase. This article sounds as though the Cuban people are not suffering from want of anything. That just isn't the case.

The Cuban embargo?

JIm fl — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 13:26:26 GMT

My country tis of thee. Thee being the crooked politicians who ban trade with our closest neighbor. While the worlds biggest communist nation is our largest trading partner. While we waste lives in a lost war that should never have been. We could easily kill communism just off our shores by merely opening it up to the influence of capitalism. But the fat cat right wing Cubans control our government to the extent that we cant legislate laws to clean up our lakes and lands in florida because the Cuban sugar nabobs from their sanctuary in the Bahamas buy the votes to prevent it. What else is new welcome ,to the home of the brave. We spend millions for a television progrqam that cant reach Cuba. Brave people like Cheny and Bush neither of whom has ever served our country, but both of them have plundered through illegal means the fruits of our nation. Timber, Oil, public lands and more. Great friends and associates of corporations like Enron ect. Happily wasting money and lives on a war that makes don quijote look like a sane rational real life character. The right wing cubans in Miami preventing any raprochment for fear that they wont be able to reestablish a Batista type regime in Cuba. ad nauseum

The Cuban embargo?

Roberto Alvarez — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 13:29:19 GMT

Republicans, Democrats, and Communists created this crazy little thing called the Cold War

The Cuban embargo?

Maurice Kronenbach — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 13:31:16 GMT

I am a ex pat from the UK, and last christmas i was suprised to learn that some of my freinds frequently return to Cuba each year on vacation, they say they prefer Cuba to the USA or a cruise !!. Let's be human and offer our hands to the people of Cuba, and lift our stupid embargo, this is a political war that was lost, saving face does not make anyone a winner.

The Cuban embargo?

Tom Varhol, Overland Park, Kansas — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 13:31:35 GMT

We give Communist China "Most Favored Trading Status", import their cheaply made products, allow our airlines to fly there, and permit them to hold much of our national debt. We establish diplomatic and business ties with Communist Vietnam. We are helping them build their infrastructure. Yet we can't go to Communist Cuba, all because of a bunch of illegal immigrants in south Florida who have been given the right to vote. Human rights violations are much worse and more numerous in Communist China than they are in Communist Cuba. It's time to drop the double standard, officially open up Cuba to Americans and recognize them as a neighbor. That will lead to regime change quicker than the so called embargo that is apparently not working. If the third-world folks in south Florida don't like it, they can always go home! It's only 90 miles away, and it will clearly improve things in south Florida.

The Cuban embargo?

L Rodriguez — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 13:35:45 GMT

The embargo has been a brutal show of force by the US which only hurts the poor in Cuba and cutails the right of movement of US citizens who may want to visit Cuba. It also affects US business who is interst in the Cuban market. It only helps the Cuban exiled elite of corrupt politicians and the old oligarchy who once ruled Cuba before the revolution. But of course, these are the ones who provide campaign funds in exchange for the continuation of the embargo.

The Cuban embargo?

Ihor — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 13:40:28 GMT

It's time to remove the embargo. Castro won't be around atht long and the best way to take advantage of that vacuum after his demise is to strengthen the Cuban people through trade relations. The Bush administration, which is generally pro-free trade disappointed me on this issue and I hope to see an about-face before the end of its tenure. Even conservative journalists have suggested taht it's in Cuban and American interest to remove the embaro and do business with them as we do with China.

The Cuban embargo?

Mara Rodriguez — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 13:42:51 GMT

Castro it is, indeed, the tyrant that is been portrayed, I know because I'm a cuban born and raised during "revolution". I'm not part of any "little political group of Florida" and I don't agree with the partially pretend embargo because I've seen how is been the perfect excuse for Castro's manipulations of cuban people and the whole world. How my old grandma always says:.... when the real cuban history goes public..... you'll know how Fidel Castro and his circle of friends have harmed millions of people. I don't think that cuban people want to become US "playground" again but we certainly want the opportunity to live e better life in our country.

The Cuban embargo?

John Doe, Seattle, Wash — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 13:43:03 GMT

End The Embargo

The Cuban embargo?

Dr. JC Wandemberg Ph.D. — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 13:47:29 GMT

Taking advantage of the Cuban embargo and DOUBLE STANDARDS all the way to the Bank! It is obvious that the Cuban embargo has generated a windfall for those with good political connections. Ironically, though, the embargo has achieved just the opposite of what it was supposedly designed to accomplish, it has kept the dictator (who plays victim) in place by amalgamating the support of citizens who do not know better. Shame on all those involved!

The Cuban embargo?

Jorge Quiroga, South Florida — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 13:47:53 GMT

From A Native Born Cuban and U.S. Citizen, An embargo doesn't work if there is only one player participating in a world economy. I never quite understood the personal egos that continue to fester the embargo mentality against Cuba but do not embargo a country like Vietnam. Such hypocrisy. We lost over 50,000 AMERICAN soldiers fighting in Vietnam but the U.S. has never fought a war against Castro's Cuba (the U.S. even wiped their hands off the Bay Of Pigs fiasco). Today the U.S. supports, trades with, and allows travel to Vietnam. My solution, flood Cuba with capitalism and that will cause them to change from within. Look how succesful capitalism has infiltrated into and changed China. I think that Cuba is especially ripe for change with the impending transition after Fidel. The difficulty will be managing the corruption and the unknown is how the communist power base will deal with the chaos that is sure to ensue. But the Cuban people have the experience of adaptability and resilience and I think they will prevail in lifting their standard of living and ultimately will be better off.

The Cuban embargo?

kenny weeks — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 13:51:00 GMT

if castro had his way we would have been in a nuclear war, FACT.He needs to die and then they need to change and then drop the embargo.This goverment is our enemy with out a doubt.We need to wake up people!

The Cuban embargo?

M. Rodriguez, Perth Amboy, NJ — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 13:56:35 GMT

The person more interested in keep the embargo is...FIDEL CASTRO. If not what is it going to be his excuse to not pay, to defeat and lie? He simply do not have any credibility with banks anywhere in the world, he never pays.

The Cuban embargo?

John Doe, USA — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 13:57:06 GMT

This will continue because this is the year of Hispanic Bashing. Like Lou Dobbs stated once, can't remember the exact statement, we must also secure the northern borders so that the mexicans don't get in. Why name a particular group? In Cuba the poor suffered then, and the poor suffer now. The haves, in Cuba had then and the haves who now mostly live in the US have now. The embargo hurts the poor and keep Hispanic bashing alive. Another cable guy mention if we wanted to answer to Hispanics. Folks, Hispanics are not the enemy. Hispanics and Native Americans were here long before Leaf, Christopher and the rest of gangs arrived from far far sway to take take take and haven't stop taking.

The Cuban embargo?

Thomas Tracy, Boston, MA — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 14:04:32 GMT

I am from the U.S. I go to Cuba sometimes twice a year. It's amazingly inexpensive as a vacation choice. Great food, humble yet clean accomodations, and fun and wonderful people. What embargo??!!?? Anyone who want to go to Cuba can manage the trip without State Department "allowance." Although I must say, I sadly fear the lifting of the "ban" on travel, because once it's lifted, the island will be flooded and commercialized by U.S. companies and tourists, who will destroy the scape of the island. You know, it would not be long before ground would break for "Trump Havana" I urge people to go now, before it is ruined forever.

The Cuban embargo?

Milagros Orraca, NJ — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 14:07:56 GMT

End the embargo, cubans are ready to embrace capitalism and Americans have the right to get to know VARADERO,one of the most beautiful beach in the world.... Bush administration do finally something good and clean up a little bit!!! it's the right time to do some good to cuban people in the island.

The Cuban embargo?

Bernardo, New York — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 14:13:57 GMT

the Cold War is over and the only reason the appearance of an embargo must be kept is so powerful politicians such as presidents and presidential candidates can court the important swing votes of the Miami Cuban rabblerousers

The Cuban embargo?

CARY PHILBECK, TULSA,OK — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 14:15:27 GMT

WHY IS EVRERY PROBLEM IN THE WORLD AMERICAS FAULT CASTRO IS A TYRANT IF LIFE IS SO GREAT IN CUBA WHY ARE THERE SO MANY WANTING TO GET OUT OF CUBA IF FIDEL WOULD OPEN UP THE COUNTRY.AND LET FREE ENTERPRISE IN HIS COUNTRY LIFE WOULD BE BETTER FOR THE POOR IT NOT ALL AMERICAS FAULT. IF YOU PEOPLE WHO COMPLAIN ABOUT AMERICA DO NOT LIKE IT HERE THEN LEAVE

The Cuban embargo?

Cruz A Rodriguez, Gainesville, GA — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 14:20:56 GMT

The Embargo was put in place to strangulate Cuba and the Castro regime economically. But the Castro regime is still in power after more than four decades. It does not take a genius to figure that the Embargo does not work. While we trade with China and Vietnam, we are not even allowed to travel to Cuba. It is just ridiculous that the Cubans in South Florida have the power to control US foreign policy. There is not a politician with the guts to end the Embargo. The opening will allow the Cuban people to improve their lives. And also, will mean business to US companies. While the rest of the world is trading with Cuba, only a few US companies are allowed to do business there. We could be doing next day ocean shipments to Cuba of all sorts of merchandise. Let’s do away with the double standards and normalize commercial relations with Cuba. We do business in a preferred way with a more than a billion people communist country. Why not do it with an 11 million people communist country that is just in our backyard? The Cuban government is ready to buy here and many of us are ready to sell there. Payment in advance is a best payment term!

The Cuban embargo?

Jose Paz, La Crescenta, CA — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 14:27:52 GMT

When you get to the point where a telephone pole is deemed an agricultural product, I think you have to admit that the embargo is an impediment. At the very least, you have to entertain the prosepct. When religious "exemptions" are doled out as cover for sightseeing trips, the embargo is honored in the breach. Lift the embargo and allow American products, and the culture that travels in their wake, to flow freely into the island. This will also expand the scope of humanitarian benefits imparted to the long suffering Cuban people. And it would ease the monopoly which our government controls vis-a-vis who is "licensed" to do business there. As Richard Nixon said, it's time to change American foreign policy toward Cuba from one based on punishing Castro to one based on helping the Cuban people. Castro, after all, is not suffering.

The Cuban embargo?

Ellis Blevins ...Casstown, Ohio — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 14:27:57 GMT

Dealing with Cuba, the way the US does, is like a factory firing an employee and then sending him checks each month, to help him pay his bills.

The Cuban embargo?

Kelly Queenstown, Md — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 14:31:10 GMT

I lived at Guatanamo Bay as a military wife in the late '90's. I had and have not since seen the level of poverty as I did looking through the scope at Guatanamo City. The Embargo hurts the Cuban people and the Cuban people only. There are very real concerns with lifting this embargo. What of Castro's mine fields and tourism? Was there any method to his madness as he laid those mines? Once again, we must look at the details of rebuilding and not just lifting embargo, bombing contries, we must as Americans look to "Okay, what next" What can we do to lend a hand?- to ease the transition. It's more than ports for cruise lines. It's a country. It is someone's home.

The Cuban embargo?

Patrick Judd, Austin, Texas — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 14:32:46 GMT

Fidel hasn't held an election since 1959. Anyone with a free thought or expression gets locked in a dungeon for expressing it. Yes Cuba is beautiful and has an amazing history. But today Cuba is stuck under a tyranny..PERIOD!!! Anybody who fosters that tryanny through trade, tourism, or looking the other way so they can make a few dollars ought to be made to handwrite out the Bill of Rights..just another something the Cuban people don't have. You don't reward tyrants whether their practicing aparthied, communism, narcoterrorism, etc. Until then, the embargo makes sense enough in an imperfect world.

The Cuban embargo?

Lonnie Ray Fenton — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 14:34:51 GMT

I WANT TO GO TO CUBA!!!

The Cuban embargo?

Bill T, Vincentown, New Jersey — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 14:38:26 GMT

The US should admit the embargo was a mistake and normalize relations with Cuba. It has prevented US oil companies from exploring the oil rich north coast of Cuba, and left the door wide open for China to take it all. It makes no sense that we get our oil from the other side of the planet. Come on Uncle Sam. Swallow your pride already!

The Cuban embargo?

Marcos Garcia — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 14:41:44 GMT

I was persecuted, put in prision and ived part of my life in Cuba and I am amazed as to why they keep the embargo.I am also amazed that they do not say that you can easily goto Cuba if you go to Cancun, you don't need no permission and you just board a Cuban plane and they take you there, do not mark your passport, just ask: Have dollars????and then you go and do as you please. They also don't say that you can also go to Cozumel [Grand Cayman Island] and they also take you there and do the same. It's all a lie and Americans are going there to visit relatives if they have any or just as tourist. My name is Marcos Garcia and I leave with my family in Olathe, Kansas. Proud to be an American citizen.

The Cuban embargo?

Jim St louis Mo — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 14:42:42 GMT

When Castro is gone you will see the embargo lifted. Put a smile on the lips of an old man do it now

The Cuban embargo?

Adam, Plattsburgh, New York — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 14:42:58 GMT

Tom, you may have your facts mixed up. First of all, those who make it to the US mainland from Cuba are legal immigrants, and are allowed to stay in the US. Secondly, one does not have the right to vote until they because US citizens.

The Cuban embargo?

Ray Otero, Germantown, MD — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 14:43:10 GMT

END THE EMBARGO OR BLOCKADE NOW!!!

The Cuban embargo?

Carlos Ancona, Merida, Mexico — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 14:47:05 GMT

The famous embargo that actually the United States have helped Castro to stay in power as long as he wanted, by isolating the country. We could have used the best weapon most everyone agrees Democracy, by ending the embargo and open up to Cuba we could have done away with Castro long time ago, without firing a single bullet. We critize Castro for human rights violations when the United States is the worst violator, just take a good look at Guantanamo, take a look at the way we treat the inmigrants, at our own people in our own country, so what is the big deal, we look at China, Vietnam, Irak, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, United Arab Emirates´, human right violations and these are the countries that we have good relations and lots of trade, but we don´´t care, since 1960 we have isolated an island state with 11 milion people. If we look at the medical advances that Cuba has made, the medical care that the Cubans get which is far better than of the Americans, its education system, a system that we can only dream about for all our children, and we call this a comunist country. Comunism doesn´t exist anymore, yes, it is a dictarorship but so what, we have ignored for so long the African and Arabs dictatorships, and yet we do bussiness with them and have accepted them as trading partners, why can´t we ignore Cuba´s? The embargo has never worked we only have kidded ourselves for so many years, Cubans have adapted themselves from everything that the U.S. government has thrown at them. I guess the only reason we can´t forgive the Cubans is that they took away the great playground that the rich had in that country, how stupid and ignorant of our part. Let´s lift the embargo and let the Cuban live their lives the way the choose.

The Cuban embargo?

Karen Benitez, Milwaukee, Wisconsin — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 14:49:24 GMT

For Cuba to move forward into the 21st Century, the dictator Castro, who still spouts unfavorable rhetoric of the United States to this day, needs to be gone. If he had the power that he still wants, he would still hurt the United States along with Hugo Chavez. The embargo should stay until Castro has departed from this earth. After that happens new policies could start anew with fresh ideas. We always have a change in Presidents, that is why we have democracy, Thank God. China and Vietnam have changing leaderships and are kinder to United States in recent years than the one leadership of Cuba's dictator Castro, who for many years is not kind at all to the United States. It is hard to move forward with the same dictator, Castro, who is stubborn and for many years always has the same ideas and who will not budge or change, not even for his own people. It is hard to move forward and deal with someone like that. There will be an abundance of hope once Castro is out of the picture. At least the Cuban people are getting a little taste of how good our American products are and what they are like. Even if it is through a third country for now.

The Cuban embargo?

Nikki — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 14:57:27 GMT

Okay, that embargo should be gone by now. Really it should have never been implemented. And being African American I have to say that I really like Castro. Castro and Guevara have treatly African people very well in Africa and the US.

The Cuban embargo?

Greg Newberry, Twin Falls, Idaho — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 14:58:28 GMT

Congratulations Today! I have traveled on business to Cuba for the past four years. US politics in regards to Cuba and Latin america are so far out of touch with reality that we are giving away out political viability in the region. Your reporting was acurate to actual Cuba. Attorney General Gonzales comments then showed how far behind reality the Bush administration operates at. Today, Thank you for the truth.

The Cuban embargo?

Kirby Thompson — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 15:01:09 GMT

If the rest of the island is as beautiful as the US base, I'd love to go back! It was the only stop on the tour I actually enjoyed. Mid 70s

The Cuban embargo?

John Doe, Seattle, Wash — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 15:03:26 GMT

Alright, yes we have an embargo on Cuba. Lets create embargo's for all communist nations and quit sending our precious supplies to china and japan! Our politicians need to realize what they are doing to our middle class while they are phatening their wallets by accepting money from big box corporations from poorley manufacturing nations like China!!

The Cuban embargo?

ALFREDO GONZALEZ, MIAMI, FLORIDA — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 15:04:21 GMT

FACT: THE EMBARGO HASN'T DAMAGE THE CASTRO REGIME, BUT CUBANS STANDARTS OF LIVING. AND CASTRO HAS MANAGED TO CONVINCE CUBANS THAT IT'S BECAUSE THE AMERICANS EMBARGO THAT THEY LIVE LIKE THAT MISERABLE. END THE EMBARGO AND GIVE CUBANS AN OPPORTUNITY TO HAVE A BETTER LIVE. AT THE END, CASTRO EATS WELL AND WHATEVER HE WANTS WHENEVER HE WANTS IT. DO GOOD FOR THE CUBAN PEOPLE.

The Cuban embargo?

Henry Rodriguez, Dallas, TX — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 15:08:44 GMT

End the embargo and the travel restrictions already! Forget the past. Lets all love each other. I want to go to Cuba and smoke a real cuban cigar in the island.

The Cuban embargo?

Jame Bond, London — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 15:09:08 GMT

Americans are not the brightest people in the world are they? Can anyone respond to that? How can they be so dumb to chear bush when he talks of freedom, democracy and all the other crap that comes out his mouth, and yet they are told that they cannot go to Cuba. Americans seem to think that everybody wants to go to the U.S, this is also an ignorant way of thinking on the part of americans. My veiw is that there should be a world wide travel ban on anyone going to the U.S. Yep cancel all flights to america. And as for bush, in case no one noticed, he is not really welcomed in Europe (esp the UK)let alone Cuba. In ending; I'll go to Cuba any day, over the U.S, while the dumb americans don't know what they are missing. (next world cup to be held in Cuba, yeh!! no americans will be there!!!)

The Cuban embargo?

gus, san antonio, Texas — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 15:10:34 GMT

The embargo is just another example of our fine hypocritical American foreign policy. Our same government, which continually clamors that it'll never relax the embargo on a repressive government like Castro's, long ago showed it'll shove aside ties to democratic Taiwan to further strengthen our links and committments to repressive Communist China. That the congressman interviewed this morning on the Today Show should answer to this double standard (i.e China & Vietnam) with something along the lines of "well we have to take different approaches to different situations" is laughable as it just goes to, again, show the hypocritical double-standard and the monetary influence of certain well-heeled lobbyists & Cuban emigres on congressmen who have influence on whether the embargo stays or goes. And given some of the "goods" which are making their way into Cuba to benefit a few well-connected Americans? Ah well, to paraphrase from "The Godfather" (which was used as a reference point in the Today Show story, altho pre-Castro Cuba was in "The Godfather, Part II"): "Its not personal. Its $trictly busine$$" There's no denying that Castro's Cuba is repressive, but the embargo only continually strengthens him in the eyes of the Cuban people who feel its effects and receive repeated messages that its all the US's fault.

The Cuban embargo?

Scott, Louisville, KY — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 15:15:29 GMT

End the embargo, it's such a stupid thing to have. Instead of some other companies/countries taking advantage of the opportunity in Cuba, why not let ours. And it is such a old/useless policy. I guess that the majority of Americans couldn't care less about the embargo in this day and age.

The Cuban embargo?

Dennis Cough, Napoleon, Michigan — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 15:15:56 GMT

Prior to Castro there were poor people in Cuba. There are still poor people in Cuba. Poor people know only poverty. They will never be the people who get attention. In the USA the poor get treated equally during the election season, then ignored. In Cuba they are ignored perannually. What is the difference? There are far more reasons to end the embargo than political ones. The poor in Cuba need to be able to see that there is another life available to them. If there is an election, at least they can get the attention the poor of the USA get. Then they can be ignored after the election along with the rest of the worlds poor. It isn't Castros fault there are poor. I don't imagine that there are less poor than before the Revolution. The poor have always existed and probably always will. They might be different people, but they will always exist. If we can learn to export our love of Democracy for EVERYONE and not CocaCola and Shampoo, we can more creatively demonstrate a reason to believe in our way of life.

The Cuban embargo?

Neil — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 15:17:13 GMT

This Embargo now is ridiculous. It has been nearly 50 years and as always only the poor suffered. While we sat back and said let them suffer the rest of the world was doing business with them. We need to wake up and allow Cuba to enter our 21st century so families can be united and hardships can be avoided. We are so busy helping countries throughout the world but how about one that is right off of our coast. Shame on us for allowing this to happen. Straighten it our quickly and forget Castro and think of lives. We do business with Chavez right? What more needs to be said.

The Cuban embargo?

victor vancouver bc — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 15:17:46 GMT

Having just recently returned from Cuba, I have to say... they have a thriving black market economy. They don't want for much. Besides, in all fairness... wherever I've travelled Americans are not well liked and it was a pleasure to be in a country not "dominated" by loud, obnoxious, overbearing Yanks! Of course Remember recent history, after the Spanish American War, Cuba became a horrific playground for the Mob servicing whom... wealthy L&O&O Americanos and attracting those that wanted to become that or preyed upon that. Hence the revolution in the first place! They don't want you, and perhaps are better off without you! Cheers!

The Cuban embargo?

BB, Louisiana — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 15:19:38 GMT

Kelly Queenstown, Md....Help rebuild? Why should we "USA" help to rebuild a country we had not part in destroying. It isn't our fault this country is poorer than dirt. I don't see any other country racing the USA to help rebuild Cuba.

The Cuban embargo?

Manny — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 15:21:44 GMT

ITs very easy to blame a foreign policy on a Failed Economic system... where the MILIRARY regime calls the shots! Does anyone remember the economic failures of the SOviet Block? Cuba is poor becuase the economy is run by military crooks. IT is a military dictatorship.. There is no other private ownership of any business on the Island. That Clown Matt Lauder Interviewed who claims he purcahses "tokens" of american goods at Cuban Grocery Stores should visit the stores that are'nt "Dollarized" where the gallon on milk cost is equivilant to a doctors monthly salary. My family in Cuba hasn't eaten chicken in 2 years and they still have to think twice before speaking outloud against their Dictator.

The Cuban embargo?

Manny — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 15:30:49 GMT

Dose anyone know how many people Che Guevara Single handly murdered himself? Or perhaps how many people he sentened without a trial.. Does anyone remember Stalin or the blood baths of the Soviets? What makes these non cubans so funny is that they are repeating slogans us cubans have to hear on a non stop basis in Cuba. Does anyone realize that I could be put in Jail if they I was wrritgn to you from Cuba? Its very sweet to have electricity and to bash anyone you like from the confort of your own home..without threat of the government literlly knocking on your door. WHAT is wrong with you PEOPLE.. its been 50 years of a tyrannt who refuses to make change. What other plans do you have?

The Cuban embargo?

Michael Sobieski, Cleveland, OH — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 15:36:48 GMT

Well this Embargo crap is just ridiculous. 40 or so years ago russia gave these people some weapons and a belief in a system called communism and helped put Fidel into power. That warrants us to continue to hate them even though we now trade with Russia? Not to mention China and Vietnam. Its almost like we're afraid to lift the embargo because we think the second we do, we are going to get downpoured with illegal immigrants from this country. Well I'm more worried about once we open the gates that our american companies will move in and try to use them for cheap labor, and make it another Hawaii for rich people to sip martinis and talk trash about the locals and get drunk and ruin some of the locals favorite places to relax and enjoy themselves at. Our nation used to be a great nation, we used to listen to everyones opinion not just the people who blindly agree to what the government says. We used to be a nation that fought for the rights of its people and united together against enemies. Now we go attack random countries to make more money for corrupt corporations, and refuse to recognize things like marijuana for things other than its drug uses. Hemp rope is still used on ships and considered some of the strongest rope you can make. The Cuba embargo is just one the many ways we screw other people and screw ourselves, albiet a small problem compared to our recent fiasco with Iraq, it is still a serious problem that many peple seem to think is a joke.

The Cuban embargo?

john florida — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 15:38:37 GMT

before anything can be done in cuba fidel has to die, there is no way he will let any money get into his people's hands. this animal controls the very air they need to stay alive. as far as oil we do not need cuba to drill because we can drill on our side of the water and get it. But the tree huggers wont let us yet with money from venezuela they will be able to drill the same waters we are denied.i live in south florida and the idea that the cubans here support an embargo is just stupid the want to help the families they left behind but they know that as long as he is around there will be no benefit to the people. hell he even took the american dollar out of circulation by making all the people that get american money unable to use it. he takes the us money and forces a reduced amount of cuc on the people . he is the only person to set a value on the money.and you think he is going to let these people benefit? he has been robbing them blind forever. yet he claims poverty, what a crock he is said by the cubans here to be one of the richest men in latin america. he sure does not spend it on clothes and cigars.i just don't know how so many americans became experts on cuba with little or no info. this is one i will leave to the cubans in florida i think they know what has and is happening in their homeland.from what i read today it seems that the only real reasons for the embargo being dropped is we need a new place to go on vacation and people want to make money selling their goods and helping the people is the cover story being used.

The Cuban embargo?

G.F. Sabol — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 15:38:38 GMT

I think that it is important to note the primary reason for the Cuban "embargo". The embargo has more to do with the "nationalization" of American companies, without compensation, which were located in Cuba. Businessmen and investors in the 1950's-60's lost huge sums of money because of the business seizures. (Plus, the missile deal didn't help.) SO, do we really care in 2007 what people lost in the 1960's? That is the question we as Americans need to answer.

The Cuban embargo?

Richard Rodriguez, New York, NY — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 15:40:56 GMT

It's interesting that a sizable portion of the 800 million in remittances sent to family members originate from South Florida. That would seem to suggest the so called "hard liners" are in the minority there. How about waking up and stop electing people such as the Diaz Balarts whose sole talent is perpetuating cold war status with a nation of 11,000,000 people?

The Cuban embargo?

Kristin, Tampa, Florida — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 15:43:01 GMT

If you wish to influence the U.S. embargo of Cuba, individuals must support the campaigns of U.S. Congressmen and Senators opposed to the embargo, both financially and with your votes. It is the way the U.S. Congress votes that keeps the embargo in place. It is not an issue divided by party lines. There is an organized minority actively participating in the political process on the federal level.

The Cuban embargo?

Thomas, Ludlow, MA — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 15:45:44 GMT

I have never been to Cuba but have had a long distance love affair with that island country for many years. I, like many became familiar with Cuba through Cuban music. Since first hearing the Buena Vista Social Club and the Afro Cuban all Stars I have fanatically collected the music of Ruben Gonzalez, Omara Portuondo, Eliades Ochoa, Compay Segundo and my favorite Ibrahim Ferrer. If it wasn't for the efforts of Juan de Marcos González and Ry Cooder many of us would never had heard this inspired music or sought to understand this beautiful and fascinating land. What other treasures await to be discovered? I hope that I see the day when I can freely travel to Cuba and experience it for myself.

The Cuban embargo?

Nadia Sacci, toronto ,canada — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 15:47:12 GMT

Dont lift the embargo .....cuba is so beautiful once americans are able to go in it will lose its culture....everything will be americanized and everything wil be about MONEY MONEY MONEY dontlift the embargo!!!!!!!!

The Cuban embargo?

Neil David,Chicago,Illinois. — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 15:47:32 GMT

The time has come to finally come to our senses and Lift the EMBARGO on Cuba.We seem to deal and give favored Nation status to all the other comunist countries especially turning a blind eye towards China who i think will in the next decade cause havoc with our economy and way of life.I think it is time for us Americans to lobby our politicans to finally lift the embargo on one of our closest neighbors to the south.The poor people of Cuba deserve much better.

The Cuban embargo?

Miriam F, New York, NY — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 15:48:56 GMT

How long before we realize that the embargo has done nothing but hurt the innocent people of Cuba? I am a Cuban-born American citizen who came to this country as a child. I still have family there - and they are suffering for lack of basic supplies, such as medication. The Cubans in Florida who are so vocal and pressure the government to keep the status quo are the same ones who are making plans (and they have a plan) to "take over" the island once Castro is gone. Talk about arrogance. There is a silent majority of Cubans here in the US who would welcome the end of the embargo and normalizing relations with the island nation who poses no threat to the US.

The Cuban embargo?

Luis Moro, Los Angeles — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 15:51:14 GMT

Since Cuba’s majority population is Black. And Cuban leaders in Cuba and the U.S. are white. One has to ask; If Cuba was a white Country, would there be an embargo? Luis Moro, EveryThingCuba-com

The Cuban embargo?

c, chicago — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 15:51:22 GMT

the embargo should be lifted. cuba is a beautiful and culturally rich country - i'm sure many americans would love to experience it.

The Cuban embargo?

John Doe II — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 15:52:40 GMT

I have read most of the opinions here. Regardless if I agree or not it would be an amazing thing if people who profess an opinion could spell or use anything close to proper grammer. I am not an English teacher. Please people, if you are not educated well enough to express a decent thought via spelling or grammer then where is your credibility? Cuba is one of the most "literate" countries in the Western Hemisphere. Try to live up to their standards.

The Cuban embargo?

Martin, Dallas, TX — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 15:57:25 GMT

I think the Cuban economy is better off without us. Yes, much of what they have is "vintage" by any standard, they are almost a time capsule. They should revel in their alternate economy and culture. When trade opens up, hopefully it will lessen hardships for many people, however, I hope they are able to retain their unique culture which is what attracts and will continue to attract visitors when the embargoes and travel restrictions are finally lifted.

The Cuban embargo?

James, Lake city, Florida — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 16:02:33 GMT

Think about this people. We have an embargo on Cuba because their communist, what about China? Aren't they communist also, why dooes every thing practicaly come from china then?

The Cuban embargo?

Ken Jensen Mchenry Illinois — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 16:06:21 GMT

Fidel Castro and his partner Che Guevera have and always will be murderers and thugs that killed innocent men women and children yet you always have there nieve people saying how nice they are and were. This is not the case and when Fidel dies the world will be a better place tighten the embargo do not ease it!

The Cuban embargo?

Jon, FL — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 16:07:16 GMT

You are all fools. Is it our fault Cuba is so bad? Please, Europe has no embargo. Why don't you blame them for not helping more. Oh right, only the rich go cheaply from Europe and really don't help anyone. The leader of Cuba put America through one of it's most tense times. The leaders of China are not 90 miles away, and have never been that close with nukes. Call Europe, tell them to help, and STOP blaming America for everything...or just leave.

The Cuban embargo?

Fred Alexander, Vancouver, Canada — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 16:09:35 GMT

I'm from Canada and look upon Castro as the Cuban Lincoln - the man that freed the Bacardi slaves. Loosen up America and let these people develop.

The Cuban embargo?

Angie, Weston - Fl — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 16:12:36 GMT

Here’s a CUBAN born, US citizen who arrived during the Mariel boatflift, US MBA educated and forever GRATEFUL to this country for opening the doors to my family and I - but folks WHO ARE WE KIDDING HERE? Embargo or NOT that COMMUNIST regime will NOT allow democracy in Cuba. Fidel & his people prefer to die than risk their wealthy lifestyle. Do Americans truly believe all the rice, chicken, wheat, being sold to the Govt. actually makes it to the Cuban people? WAKE UP folks, because that is NOT the case. Not to mention the daily REPRESSION these people continue to endure. The only way to a free Cuba is getting rid of the Barbarics who are running it. I believe opening up Cuba to US travel will only further enrich the Communist regime. It’s unfortunate that the world continues to ignore (despite all the testimonies) & turns away at the real root of the problem, NOT the embargo folks- it’s the Regime we need to get rid off.

The Cuban embargo?

Dennis Villman, Houston, Texas — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 16:25:08 GMT

Want to get back at Castro? The answer is simple: End the embargo immediately, allow all travel and commerce to flow unimpeded, from our side, sit back and watch communism crumble.

The Cuban embargo?

Jose, Orlando, Florida — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 16:26:31 GMT

Having been born in Cuba I thank the United States for opening its arms and allowing me the privilidge for being able to live and prosper in this great nation. The ability of self expression by way of this forum speaks volumes. Let Fidel Castro and his thugs restore freedom of speech, fredom of religion, the freedom to assemble, the freedom to bear arms and all of those things which many of us here take for grant it. There is no doubt in my mind that once this happens this "embargo" will end.

The Cuban embargo?

Kelvin Hall, Clover, SC — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 16:27:15 GMT

It does not make any sense, what is the difference, we trade with China. ALL of our jobs are now going the China we need to drop this embargo. Those who want to be president need to bring it to the floor.

The Cuban embargo?

Joe Triplett, Guam USA — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 16:28:20 GMT

It's not about Communism. It's about the fact that a dictator, openly against the United States, nearly attributed to the end of the world during the Cuban missile crisis. Sure, you can blame it on capitalism as well for the Cold War escalation, but I'm sure that if you're next door neighbor had a gun pointed into your yard while your kids were playing on the lawn you would react the same way. I am fully in support of the embargo until Castro dies, or he has a change of heart. To knowingly cooperate with a leader that would like nothing more than our demise would be silly! Even if there are ways around it, the fact of the matter is, that the embargo has weakened Castro's influence and power, and this may well have saved the US from many minor excursions over the years, would Castro have remained an economic and military power.

The Cuban embargo?

JW- Kansas City — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 16:32:35 GMT

Are we really a free society when our government restricts our movement? Do you feel free when you go thru security at the airport? Do you feel free when the FBI uses it's assets to spy on your activities for reasons other than national security? The face of America has changed. Our govenment is now nothing more than domestic and international crowd control. Society's police, world police, if you will. Just like south L.A. ;contain the masses. Control the minds, activities, and yes Virginia, the Travel of our citizery? I think Kennedy himself would have changed Cuban diplomacy over time. He would have realized to ignore an entire nation was mad. As mad as his own murder. We will may never be told what happeed to this young man , because that killing may well have been a crowd control measure itself. War on drugs? War on poverty, War on AIDS? Bull! Thank God for the Free Press to keep the truth flowing. Without it you rights would have been trampled and abolished long ago. JW -KC

The Cuban embargo?

Charles Terrell — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 16:35:06 GMT

WHy do we trade with communist countries like CHina and Vietnam, send our troops to countries like Iraq and Afghanistan which have no love for the U.S., spend billions on rebuilding countries defeated in war like Japan and Germany and the same for countries we didn't defeat like Vietnam and Korea, and then say Cuba is such a threat to the US. It's nothing but political hipocracy. Accomplished nothing. Gains the U.S. nothing. ANd why do we maintain a U.S. Base on such a "dangerous" island. Where is the logic in this situation? Purpose? Reasoning? Americans do not need another vacation spot, but the Cuban people deserve to be treated the same as Chinese or Vietnamese and they deserve the same opportunities as the rest of the "free" world. Lift the embargo and let commerce take it's course. If all 11 million comne to the US we will be no worse off than we are now as there are that many or more illegal aliens here now. We seem to be able to support them ok .. at the expense of our citizens, but that is another story for another time.

The Cuban embargo?

Robert, Commack NY — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 16:39:32 GMT

What a joke. I lived in South Florida for 7 years, and the Cuban communty there hijacks local and state politics, screaming for the embargo to be enforced, all the while they send money to their relatives still in Cuba. They are a bunch of sanctamonious hypocrites who still think, 50 years later, that they will return to the island to rule when Castro dies, as if the people who stayed behind and suffered the hardships the exiles forced upon them would let these phonies in. What a bunch of nonsense.

The Cuban embargo?

Jose Arias (member of CPUSA) Detroit, MI — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 16:39:55 GMT

We're not all that great ourselves... sure we've placed an embargo with cuba... But now Cuba is buying and selling with other latin American Countriesm, that are welcoming Socialism and Communism... And anyways... us Communists aren't so bad. we just look scary because of teh beards

The Cuban embargo?

Charles Terrell, Florence, ALabama — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 16:40:43 GMT

The Cuban embargo?

Wendy King, New Orleans LA — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 16:40:56 GMT

James, China has 1 billion people, and a booming economy. The Bush Administration, and its predecessors, are all too willing to overlook China's dictatorship, if it meant access to a very big market, full of young consumers with lots of disposable income, a lot of equally young entrepreneurs, and a source of money for American businesses. Also, China doesn't have angry expatriates living in the United States, who support a trade embargo against their country, and are waiting until China's "old guard" dies off, and they can return to China and reestablish a democracy or other government. China's government, unlike Cuba's, has embraced market capitalism, but still (like Cuba) keeps an iron grip on its press and other media. Also, Chinese manufacturers pay their employees far less than American manufacturers do in this country. Those "savings" are then passed on to American consumers, who don't worry about Chinese working conditions or low pay.

The Cuban embargo?

victor south florida — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 16:43:08 GMT

leave cuba the way it is, we need a country like that so we americans will feel better about our society, and our freedom of speech,what a joke. we are at war right now because we are supporting the state of Israel. we are spending our people and money for democrasy?, how stupid are we. the reason we are at war is becuase the capitalist system makes powerfull people with lots or resources and they decide accorindingly. we think that by voting we are in a democracy, well think again because this system needs to improve, with all the technology we have we should be able to have referendum whenever needed to decide if we need to halt embargo to cuba, or to stop wars, otherwise keep on believing this is a democrasy...

The Cuban embargo?

Whitman Sears, Great Falls, Montana — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 16:43:51 GMT

It's hard to add much to the many who have voiced reasoned and thoughtful opinions as to why the embargo and travel restrictions are obsolete. Times have changed, and they were never evvective in the first place.

The Cuban embargo?

stewart hanna vernon bc can. — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 16:44:03 GMT

When Cuba gets their oil industry developed and they are drilling off coast,America will change its tune.

The Cuban embargo?

Uncle Sam — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 16:45:23 GMT

Hey James Bond saying Americans cheer for bush is like saying all britts have bad teeth. It is a fun stereotype. But I remember Samantha Fox and she had nice teeth. 67% of americans don't like GWB and 100% of americans can't stand your food. Viva Cuba

The Cuban embargo?

Alicia, Miami FL — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 16:45:42 GMT

I live in So. Florida and the biggest proponents of the "embargo" can be found in the Cuban community here. They are also the biggest hypocrites where the embargo is concerned. It's okay for them to visit Cuba and send money, medicine, eyeglasses, etc. to Tio and Tia, and Abuelo, and Abuela, but they don't want anyone else to have that privilege. Let's be realistic, Havana Norte has proped up the economy of Havana South for decades.

The Cuban embargo?

W. Glade — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 16:45:50 GMT

Cuba has been deemed an enemy of the US for two reasons: its anti-US alliance with the Soviets (1961-1990. That alliance obviously does no exist but the other reason that still exists today is its promotion and support of armed intervention in other countries especially in Latin America the Carribean and including the US. I would urge any one who cares to read Article 12 and 13 of the Cuban Constitution and you will clearly see the reasons why the US cannot make any real diplomatic or economic peace with Cuba until Article's 12 and 13 is abolished or amended. Castro will always be an internationalist who promotes violence and terrorism against legitimate democracies. Read New York Times headline November 22, 1962 about Castro's plot to bomb New York City that was thwarted by the FBI. Here is a sample of Article 12 Sec H: recognizes the legitimacy of the struggle for national liberation, as well as of armed resistance to aggression; and considers that its solidarity with those under attack and with the peoples that struggle for their liberation and self-determination constitutes its internationalist duty;

The Cuban embargo?

Publius, Atlanta, GA — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 16:46:22 GMT

To Patrick Judd of Austin Tx: 171 years ago, a group of men in Texas wanted to keep the mexicans out so badly that roughly 200 of them died in the alamo. Now, we welcome them to our country to work in our farms, construction sites, and hotel cleaning services. Times change. The same goes for Cuba. There is no such thing as a one-fit, unchanging foreign policy. Catch up with the times or seceed.

The Cuban embargo?

M. Rodriguez, NJ — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 16:48:37 GMT

Dear Jonh Doe II, excuse if someone is not using appropiate grammar and please don't jump up because some people are passionate about a close-to-their heart topic. That way is easy to understand why some canadians and brits are againts to see "arrogant, obnoxious yanks" as they said before in Cuba.

The Cuban embargo?

Neal — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 16:49:18 GMT

After reading Kerry's article and many of the responces i can only conclude that the cuban embargo has not strangled the Cuban government, probably has not hurt the poor that much (We have plenty of poor right here in the US). what it seems to have done the most is prevent would be entrapnaurial opportunist from rushing in, building new hotels, opening chain bars, renting loungers and umbrellas, basically everything they have done in Florida, the Bahamas and every other marketable beach front location. Maybe the embargo is the greatest kept secret for those willing to work a little harder to get to a non commercialized, unspoiled tropical paradise. Even American Cubans get to enjoy Cubas natual beauty since they are exempt from the embargo to visit family members there.

The Cuban embargo?

JR Portland, OR — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 16:57:59 GMT

Hey John Doe II, you should learn how to spell "grammar". It is with an "a" not an "e". So before you correct others, look at your own spelling and grammar!

The Cuban embargo?

anonymous — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 17:02:40 GMT

In response to Luis Moro's blog, the majority of people in Cuba are not black, they are mulato...a beautiful mix of black and white. The black population is only 11%. You can't blame this one on race.

The Cuban embargo?

Twilight Travel Destinations — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 17:07:10 GMT

Heard Cuba is a favorite destination for retired terrorists - at the popular retirement resort Gitmo . 3 meals a day with covered health care and 24/7 tropical weather conditions . Paradise with all expense covered .

The Cuban embargo?

Noel, Ames, Iowa — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 17:11:53 GMT

During the last 50 years, all the countries in Latin America have been under the imperial exploitation of the US; that is why those countries are so poor and underdeveloped. On the other hand, Cuba, thanks to the immoral embargo, has not been subjected to such exploitation. No American company has taken a single dollar out of Cuba in the last 50 years. That is why Cuba is so rich, modern, and free. Every day, hundreds of citizens from exploited nations, like the Dominican Republic, take it to the sea hoping to reach the Cuban paradise.

The Cuban embargo?

fair mind BKLYN , NY — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 17:13:05 GMT

Here is CUBA have not done anything to hurt us Here is CHINA SENDING US TOXIC CHEMICAL , MELAMINE which have sickened thousands of pets and killed some in the process same products tainted our live stock feed which in turn our government will feed us with. don't mind human rights abuse is far the worst . maybe CUBA should do the same . and our government will TRADE with them.

The Cuban embargo?

Joe, Washington DC — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 17:17:36 GMT

Keep the embargo! Cuba is living the way they want to. Leave them alone. They chose Castro...who are we to say no? Castro dumped a ton of criminals on the US in years past. Let them stay in Cuba. Americans, KEEP OUT!

The Cuban embargo?

Ken M, Union, New Jersey — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 17:20:44 GMT

Pretty interesting, We lose 58,000 lives in Vietnam and today you buy a pair of Nike's, they are probably made there. By the way, Vietnam is a Communist nation. We haven't lost any lives in Cuba, but we treat them like a mortal enemy. Drop the Embargo, if we still have a need to influence what goes on in Cuba, we can do this with American Tourist money. I would love to visit Havana one day.

The Cuban embargo?

Nick, Alameda, California — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 17:21:00 GMT

China and Viet Nam say they are communist when really they are capitalist dictatorships. We get along with capitalist dictatorships but not socialist ones. Corporate America controls this country and our policies.

The Cuban embargo?

Demetrius — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 17:21:20 GMT

I agree with Luisito, If Cuba wasn't a Black majority island would we even have an embargo. Let's not forget the Spanish American war in which this American government could not stand to see Cuba in control by the Black population. The Verdaderos are planning to take control when Fidel dies but they won't succeed becuase the Afro-Cuban community won't stand for it.

The Cuban embargo?

LM, Charlotte, NC — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 17:24:55 GMT

Unfortunately many citizens of other nations are very sadly misinformed regarding the views of the American citizens. The majority of Americans do not want to see any country, especially Cuba with high poverty, illness etc. As with many countries a few powerful politicians make the policies that many times we as citizens do not agree with. Many countries in Europe would be speaking German if it wasn't for our generosity of money and military support in wars gone by. Castro has sent Doctors and aid to foreign countries to get their support in trade for food and supplies. Anyone that believes he is generous has never experienced having family members arrested, all their personal property taken, etc. The sick old man you see now has allowed atrocities to happen to the individual citizens of "his" country and a nation, and many countries have turned their heads to make money not just the US. Having family in Cuba, many of the comments are extremely ignorant of what is truly going on there. Citizens die of diseases that we in the US and other countries would not worry about because we have easy access to treatment. Americans should be less generous, it is obviously not appreciated. We need to spend our tax dollars in the US and focus on the people that are here and not worry about the rest of the world! England is one step away from Cuba they are "ruled" by a monarchy, which is a veil for a dictatorship in today's world. At least that is how the "dumb" Americans see it!!!!!!

The Cuban embargo?

V, Austin, TX — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 17:26:33 GMT

To John Doe II: Physician, heal thyself. It's "grammar", not "grammer". If you throw stones....

The Cuban embargo?

Eddy Haynes, Sitka, Alaska — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 17:30:37 GMT

The cold war is over. Someday, when I can afford it, I would love to take a Legal vacation there. Also, the main reason I wrote this was: I would would love to buy cheaper, legal Cuban Cigars!!!

The Cuban embargo?

Mari — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 17:37:56 GMT

To John Doe II - you have perhaps given the most ignorant comment yet... You're correct there have been many mispellings, grammar errors, lost thought process... Do you realize that English is not the native tongue of many of the people who have responded.. and/or the fact that the people commenting are responding/commenting on a subject that they feel passitionate about, perhaps due to being a native of Cuba or still having family there. Get a grip and focus on the subject at hand.

The Cuban embargo?

GEORGE ARAGON ALBURQUERQUE NUEVO MEXICO — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 18:06:08 GMT

LEAVE THE EMBARGO IN PLACE, THE CUBAN PEOPLE CONTINUE TO SUFFER. LIFT THE EMBARGO AND ITS JUST ANOTHER LATIN COMMUNITY OPEN FOR AMERICAN EXPLOITATION!! EITHER WAY ITS LOSE LOSE FOR THE CUBAN PEOPLE.

The Cuban embargo?

Todd, Minneapolis — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 18:07:07 GMT

Tell me this: If Cuba has the entire world to trade with, excepting the US, why still so poor? Why does the US make all the difference, assuming Cuba has their pick of trading partners? I'm not sure the USA can take the entire blame for the condition of the Cuban population. Sure would be nice to get some of those cigars, though.

The Cuban embargo?

GEORGE ARAGON ALBURQUERQUE NUEVO MEXICO — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 18:07:17 GMT

LEAVE THE EMBARGO IN PLACE, THE CUBAN PEOPLE CONTINUE TO SUFFER. LIFT THE EMBARGO AND ITS JUST ANOTHER LATIN COMMUNITY OPEN FOR AMERICAN EXPLOITATION!! EITHER WAY ITS LOSE LOSE FOR THE CUBAN PEOPLE.

The Cuban embargo?

Ramon, San Francisco, CA — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 18:08:40 GMT

I was born in Cuba, being living in the USA for 7 years and I am now an American citizen. Although under current American laws I am allowed to go and visit my family every 3 years, I have not being able to do so because of guess who: The Cuban government, they ban me to visit my own country and see my family. My only “sin”: leaving the country for a training and never returning. Talk about freedom of travel! Wake up people, I lived under that terrible tyranny for 24 years, I DO know what it is like…. It is appalling to see so many "Cuba experts" on this blog defending the indefensible.

The Cuban embargo?

coco, nj — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 18:08:59 GMT

i wonder if anyone realizes that the suffering that the cuban people are STILL going thru all started when castro took over the country. he is the one that took away their right to own cows pigs and chickens to feed their families. the cuban people hide these animals in their dirt floor homes so that the soldiers, informants, spies of the town won't take them away. he also took away all rights to own property or farms. he took away the right to own your own business therefore not allowing the cuban people to make a living for themselves. he also requires young adults to get picked up by an overcrowded bus from their homes and families on a sunday night to be driven to the plantations and fields to work all week bringing them back fri night. he does not allow construction or any type of improvments allowed on homes although they are badly needed. to this day his informants, soldiers, spies around the country are still "ratting" out their fellow neighbors for any talk perceived or otherwise against the establishment. he still has overcrowded jails of innocent people who have doen NOTHING wrong. young girls are forced to prostitute themselves on the streets of havana in order to make a dollar for themselves and their families. he does not allow the cuban people outof the country unless it's for a medical reason. it takes years for cuban americans to be able to claim their families from the cuban govt. for any cuban citizen to be able to leave the country they need to apply for a lotto. your name is picked, you recieve a phone call at the only phone in town, and told to be at the airport at a specific time, there is no chance to say goodbye or pack. AND LET US NOT FORGET THAT CASTRO DOES NOT WANT OUR HELP, MONEY, FOOD, CLOTHES, GAS, WATER, MEDICINES. castro once lived in nj before he led the revolution that ruined that country. check out www.therealcuba.com

The Cuban embargo?

Patrick, Minneapolis — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 18:16:21 GMT

I think most people are missing the big picture here. There's a real anti-U.S. movement that's been growing in Latin America, thanks in large part to Bush. His war has not endeared him to people there, as it hasn't to most world citizens, including the majority of the U.S. population. But Bush's reluctance show even the slightest give to Cuba - in fact, he's tightened the screws even more, having closed many of the doors Clinton had started to open, such as starting to lift travel restrictions - has helped foster the Castro-Chavez bond. This has given Chavez much more power in Latin America and countries in the region are starting to emulate him. Today's Cuban embargo is tomorrow's Venezualan embargo, if we continue Bush's path. Lifting the Cuban embargo would soften the image of the U.S. in Latin America, which we could certainly use. And yes, it would help Cubans work toward a capitalist system on their own, in addition to opening the doors to U.S. businesses and tourists.

The Cuban embargo?

Aixa Lopez, NY, NY — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 18:38:20 GMT

Are the people of China and Vietnam better now after the "open trade”? If the answer is yes; then, we should lift the embargo and welcome the Cuban people into the democratic world; however, if the answer is negative, then we should not keep spreading the "opening policy trade" just because we are doing that in one or two countries, on the contrary, we should reinforce a UN supported embargo against all those countries that still violate all human rights. Humanitarian organizations along with democratic countries should fight and condemn the real embargo, the one Castro impose to the Cuban people!

The Cuban embargo?

James Roos, Littleton, CO — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 18:43:31 GMT

The Cuban embargo is not a policy decision; it was required by US law when Castro seized US assets in Cuba without remuneration. To-date, Cuba has not paid for the assets they seized almost 50 years ago. Sure, we could have forgiven Castro's actions and Cuba's debts, but why should we? Castro has done nothing in the last 48 years to endear his government to us. In fact, quite the opposite. Let's face it, it's politically convenient to keep the embargo in place because to lift it would mean Castro has to at least apologize in some manner, and in the meantime it keeps the blame for Cuba's poor economic condition squarely on his shoulders. Castro can end the embargo anytime he chooses; by paying for what he seized, through debt relief or loan assistance, or by simply negotiating, but until he does, the embargo is still legally binding. Yes, the Cuban people suffer, and I agonize for them, but that is in Castro's hands, not ours.

The Cuban embargo?

I.Ayub, Staten Island, NY — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 19:29:43 GMT

It's been long time since the Cuban Missile crisis and the whole castro thing. Let's not live in the past. Let past be past. Every day is a new day and we need to move on. Castro is a dictator, so what? Democracy might not be the solution for every culture. Look at how so called "DEMOCRACY" has destroyed IRAQ. Some cultures are not mature enough to handle democracy. For example, Pakistan is full of terrorist minded people. Pakistan needs a strong pro-western dictator to keep those Pakistani bast**ds in line. I don't hate pakistanis. But, I do dislike how their religious groups are exporting terrorism to other muslim countries. Not every country is as civilized as the west and we need to keep that in mind before we try to preach democracy to un-educated cultures. Dumn people in a Democratic society would certainly elect bad leaders.

The Cuban embargo?

Bryan Rasmussen Eau Claire Wisconsin — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 19:44:11 GMT

Everyone we all enjoy hearing each others opinions, but after the 5 comment that had misspellings and horrible grammer, not to mention the ones who felt the need to write in all CAPS. We need to act like adults, use our words and voice our opinions, not " END THE BLOCKADE" which by the way the "blockade" is over.... Personally I think the embargo should not be lifted, lest you all want Cuba to turn into "Little America". The number one way to ruin a culture? Let americans run rampant.

The Cuban embargo?

john florida — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 19:45:07 GMT

FRED ALEXANDER: CANADA: "CUBAN LINCOLN ??" i would love to see you say that in public to a Cuban. if you live through that remark i would be amased. you could not possibly mean that or if you do you are probably the most misinformed person i have ever heard of.The idea that you would compare Lincoln to castro is the dumdest thing i have ever read.you are an afront the the education system in canada. i grew up there and do me a favor don't identify yourself as canadian.the shame is they will never print this and you go unanswered.

The Cuban embargo?

Marcy Campbell, Valley Head, AL — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 19:51:56 GMT

Are we afraid? Lift the embargo! We need friends in the Americas and need to work on real friendships arounf the world!

The Cuban embargo?

Jim M, expat originally from Connecticut — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 20:21:04 GMT

I've traveled to Cuba on vacation many times. Before my first trip I was terrified to mention that I was American, but once people found out I never felt so welcome. Cuba is a gem. The embargo is a joke. However, one of the things that makes Cuba so beautiful is the lack of modern American influence - no public advertising or "corporate marketed pollution" and beautiful architectural detail. If the embargo is ever lifted I would hope many restrictions and sanctions be put in place to protect its beauty.

The Cuban embargo?

Fred Alexander, Vancouver — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 20:23:31 GMT

Well John from Florida, what about Barcardi's slaves? What do you know about Cuba before Castro? Revolutions happen for a reason. Let the Cuban's themselves (not those exiles in Florida) decide their future.

The Cuban embargo?

Linda Moore, Boston Ma — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 20:33:52 GMT

I have been to Cuba. In fact I was there when Bush put the extra restrictions on the embargo in 2004. Cuba is a wonderful country. They have free health care and an excellent source of medical doctors. College education is free. Yes, free. They also have a 97% literacy rate. 97%!!! Can we say we have free health care? No. I have never met a more loving and caring community then I did in Cuba. As far as the reason why the embargo is still in place - Condoleezza Rice made it clear while she was reprimanding Spain for supporting Cuba. A "democratic" country should not be supporting Cuba until Cuba becomes a democracy. "Democratic forces must win the day in Cuba," she said in her reprimand in Madrid. It has nothing to do with what is owed in money anymore. It is about power and control. The US has no right to tell another country how they need to be run. We don't seem to have a problem with Communist China. Why Cuba? Could it be because of the literacy rate and health care? Could it be the administration's way of stifling the success that Cuba seems to be having, in spite of the leadership of Castro? How is our own country’s success with our current leadership in control? How is that "No Child left behind" doing? How are the 45 million uninsured Americans doing? Need I say more? By lifting the embargo, the US will not be able to take over and turn Cuba into a commercialized compound. Cuba won't allow that to happen. They do what they need to do to survive and thrive in their education, health care, social and economic levels and still be able to remain Cuba. I heard someone say that the embargo is still in place because of two old men; two ignorant old men who are so proud of their power, control, and countries that they are not willing to give an inch, to change, to discuss, or even be professional in their relations. Hmmm. 97% literacy rate verses

The Cuban embargo?

M. Dean, Amityville, NY — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 20:35:03 GMT

I think like most governments, Castro has done some good things and some bad things during his rule... he is no worse (in my opinion) than the communist Chinese government (Tianamen Square, anyone?) or the Arab dictatorships that the US government supports and befriends... I would like to say that Castro does make a lot of positive contributions to the neighbouring Caribbean countries... for instance, high school graduates from the Caribbean can attend a 4-year university in Cuba [Free Of Charge!!] in any field they wish and learn Spanish at the same time...I'm from The Bahamas, and I know a lot of students who went there to study medicine...(Cuba has a very good educational system-wouldn't it be great if the U.S. government subsidized college education like this?!)... despite this, I believe that the embargo should be lifted as the only ones hurting are the Cuban people and Castro's rule over the country has not weakened...with free trade and travel being restored with the U.S., Cuba will be a stronger/more open country which would lead to social, political, and economic change for its citizens...

The Cuban embargo?

M Rodriguez, NJ — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 20:40:57 GMT

I would like to respond to those who say that cubans living in US are hypocritical because we send money and medicines to our family in Cuba.... to those who hadn't feet it it's very difficult to know that your mother, your children, people that it's your blood does not have food in their tables, nor the necessary for basic hygiene or medicine..... Plus no need to keep bashing south Florida, the majority of cubans there do not want to go back to Cuba and take away nothing, us, the new generation are very interested in a nice transition that do not represent any trouble to our fellow cubans inside the island, if possible a transition that keep our people's traditions in place. Yes, there are political partys between cubans in US and people that's hurt because they saw their houses, lands taken away, they saw family being killed or incarcerated for the communists. Not everyone of us is actually in the same opinion. Give us a little credit.

The Cuban embargo?

Douglas Saballos — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 21:12:00 GMT

Why the crocadile tears over an embergo that hasnt been one at all. Cuba buys anything it needs in the international markets. If we decided not to do business with a country that has antagonized us over so long,then so be it.

The Cuban embargo?

Carmen Ferreiro, Miami, FL — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 21:51:40 GMT

The real question is why do people financially support a cruel and repressive tyranny? Why democratic people travel to other countries with horrible human rights violations and mistreatment of the people there? Those who plan to go to Cuba as tourists should consider this first—how does it feel to be able to travel anywhere you please freely, when Cubans on the island cannot travel abroad or in their own country in the same manner? That consideration should take precedence over any talk of economic restrictions that as you point out is being circumvented anyway.

The Cuban embargo?

Fred — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 22:48:11 GMT

So we want to sun on the beaches that Cubans are not allowed on. Stay in the hotels that Cubans are forbidden to stay at. Eat the food that Cubans cannot afford to buy. Etc, etc, etc. Political prisoners? who cares? After all its a great vacation spot. Would you have stayed at a concentration camp? Dumb question if your willing to do business with Cuba.

The Cuban embargo?

Alfredo Gomez — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 22:59:47 GMT

We say we live in a country with the best democracy, the model of all democracies, how it can be when we do not allow other to live by the way they want, first of all we do not accept other's living style, second we impose our living style. This is a beautiful country for its people, its history, and its vast culture. Let's be democratics by the fact of accecting and tolearate others, by acting as friend and no being the same like other that we do not like. Lift the embargo and let's show our values to our neighbor of Cuba.

The Cuban embargo?

Manuel A. Tellechea, Union City, N.J. — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 23:14:13 GMT

The only constant in Cuban-American relations over the last 48 years has been Fidel Castro. If the embargo is still in place, it is Fidel Castro who bears the responsibility and the blame. On numerous occasions American presidents have sought a rapprochement with Cuba and been rebuffed by him. Gerald Ford had already agreed in principle to lift the embargo, and all the mechanisms were already in place to do so, when, on the eve of recognition, Castro launched the invasion of Angola. Jimmy Carter was also willing to reach an accommodation with Castro, and, indeed, had opened a U.S. Interests Office in Havana, when Castro unleashed the Mariel crisis. Even Ronald Reagan sent General Vernon Waters to Cuba to negotiate the normalization of relations, when Castro, already in dread fear of glasnost and perestroika, decided that it was wisest to say a "pox on both your houses" and retreat into his bunker to await the implosion of the Revolution. If Fidel genuinely cared about the Cuban people rather than his own survival in power, the embargo would have been liftelong ago. What would that have required of him? Simply that he adhere to the U.N. Declaration of Human Rights to which Cuba is a signatory. But the billionaire plutocrat lives to exploit his people, who are the source of his personal riches; and as he cares nothing about their civil or human rights, he cares even less about their economic rights. For him the Cuban people are mere chattel to be exploited, sold and bartered. Fidel Castro trades with over 130 countries and has amassed the largest per capita public debt in the world (as well as the largest personal fortune in Cuba, estimated by Forbes Magazine at $950 million). Unfortunately, Castro doesn't pay Cuba's creditors (which serves them right for dealing with a thief). Every nation that has ever traded with Cuba has had cause to regret doing so. As for the U.S. trade embargo, it does not in fact exist anymore. The Cuban regime is now allowed to buy foodstuffs, medicines, farm equipment, etc. from the U.S. without restrictions (except, of course, that they pay with cash up front). This seems to me the only sane way to "trade" with a bankrupt nation, which, moreover, owes the U.S. and American citizens billions of dollars for nationalized and confiscated properties. The U.S. trade embargo on Cuba, incidentally, did achieve one very important American policy ojective — it brought down European Communism. The $260 billion that the Soviet Union was compelled to spend to prop-up Castro over 30 years effectively bankrupted it and hastened the collapse of Communism in Europe. Finally, I do not care what the majority of the American people think about Cuba or Fidel Castro (although every poll shows that they detest him, despite the media's best efforts to avuncularize him a la Stalin). Cuba's future is a matter that concerns only the Cuban people, here and on the island.

The Cuban embargo?

Victoria, Sebring, Florida — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 23:26:54 GMT

I've read most of the opinions here and it really is sad to see how utterly miss-informed most Americans and indeed the Canadians and Brits are about Cuba, her people, her history and everything Cuban. Cuba is a Communist dictatorship ruled by the military. What part of that do you people not understand? When Castro came to power in 1959 (almost 49 years ago!!!!) Cuba was among the most advanced nations in the Western Hemisphere. Now Cuba is a 4th world country. The embargo did not do this...Communism did. They have no economy; they produce less sugar today than they did 49 years ago. Cuba is a police state where the government messes with everything you do. Go read “1984” and get an idea of how the people really live. The government wants the people to spend all of their time looking for food and basic necessities so that they don’t have any time or energy left to think or plot against the powers that be. With or without the embargo the people would still be starving. And believe me they are starving. There are so many miss-conceptions that I can’t even address here, but most of what I’ve read is twisted and wrong. Please people, do some research before spewing such stupidity.

The Cuban embargo?

Louis, Austin — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 23:32:27 GMT

My oh my. The ignorance of Cuba's reality and the thinly veiled racism bewilders me! Cuba trades with every nation on earth but the US. The reason the economy is sunk is because of the communist system and Fidel Castro. He abolished any and all personal initiative and free markets. He turned a country with the largest middle class and in Latin America into beggars. Pre-revolutionary Cuba was an economic marvel with an economy stronger than much of Western Europe. There were poor people, but proportionally no more than in most first world countries -- which is what Cuba was before Castro. Blame Fidel Castro for the misery he has caused -- not the USA. Finally, why aren't the Cuban people worthy of freedom and prosperity? Seems like many want to keep them poor so they can visit this "humble" country not "ruined" by American influence. Easy thing to say when you return to your comfortable lives while the average Cuban suffers.

The Cuban embargo?

Miguel, New Jersey — Wed, 06 Jun 2007 01:31:19 GMT

PLEASE TAKE YOUR TIME AND READ: I found it to be funny that everyone who has posted a comment above to lift the embargo, wants to visit Cuba but do not understand the true struggle of the everyday Cuban both living here in exile and those living back in Cuba. NONE of you know or understand the true fidel castro. How he killed and jailed his close highly ranked "friends" who helped him climb to the top of the revolution in the fifties. But once his friends disagreed and found out that fidel had lied to everyone, and no longer wanted an election which was his reason for the revolution and therefore appointed himself as "president", he had them killed and jailed. Example: Camilo Cienfuegos and Huber Matos; Look these names up, get educated. You want to visit a place where their is no due process and where you have to fear what you say and do. I would like to visit where my mother and wife were born, but the reality is, I can't. Are you also aware the Cubans are not allowed to stay at Cuban resorts. Why? Ask fidel. So if I wanted to go to Cuba and invite my family over to sleep at a room at the hotel, they cannot because they are Cubans. Are you also aware that Cubans get paid in their local currency, but all the stores are in dollars. So they have to exchange their pesos to dollars and take a 10 to 15 % hit. Are you also aware that youngs Cuban kids between the ages of 11 and 13 have to work at labor camps. Hard labor picking tobacco, which my mother in the early 70's did and my wife in the early 90's did. You went away for a long period of time to work. I believe that would be against the law here and in many ohter countries around the world. The government forces these kids to work at these camps. A Cuban cannot use the internet or get a cellular phone, its against the law. If Cubans are so happy there, why do so many of them risk their lives in those dangerous waters. One response to that, for freedom. Ladies and gentlemen there is 2 Cubas, one that you, as a tourists see, and then there is the real Cuba. The only embargo here is the inner embargo. Please get educated, visit website such as www.therealcuba.com. I hope one day we will all be able to visit a Free Cuba.

The Cuban embargo?

Ruth — Wed, 06 Jun 2007 01:31:56 GMT

For the record: 1. Cuba trades with the rest of the world. The state of the Cuban economy is the result of failed economic policies. It is arrogant to believe that their deprivation is the result of not trading with the U.S. 2. How do you trade with a government which has seized millions of dollars from American companies and doesn't pay its bills? At least the Chinese made partial restitution. On a more personal level, how would you feel if the government came and took away your house, your car, your business, even the instruction of your children? Would you forget even forty years later, fifty? 3. Castro is that bad. Just ask the families of those who have faced the firing squad. Ask the ladies in white whose family members have been put in jail for disagreeing with the government. Oh, and guess what, Castro doesn't want to be your friend. 4. Look and see if you see any mulatto or black faces among the ruling elite. You won't. But, heck! That's okay. Just have your nice cheap vacation in hotels Cubans can't frequent, on beaches Cuban can't frequent, where the government pockets at least 80% of the worker's salaries. But that's okay. The happy natives don't need freedom. They love oppression. Gimme a break!

The Cuban embargo?

Grenada Munroe — Wed, 06 Jun 2007 01:45:05 GMT

Since Cuba’s majority population is Black. And Cuban leaders in Cuba and the U.S. are white. One has to ask; If Cuba was a white Country, would there be an embargo? Luis Moro, EveryThingCuba-com THIS IS THE MOST PROLIFIC COMMENT POSTED YET!!!!

The Cuban embargo?

Vito, L.A, California — Wed, 06 Jun 2007 02:41:08 GMT

I think it'll be lifted when it MOST benefits corporate America, after all, they are the ones that run the world, not so much the governments.

The Cuban embargo?

Ann, Lithonia, GA — Wed, 06 Jun 2007 05:24:21 GMT

Come on enough already! I want to visit Cuba!!!

The Cuban embargo?

Rafael del Castillo, Seattle, Washington — Wed, 06 Jun 2007 10:13:33 GMT

I was also born in Cuba and have grown up to become a left-leaning US citizen who opposed the embargo for years, but now hesitates to throw away the only bargaining chip left to encourage political change. All others have been wasted by US governments and a blind exile community. Change IS needed because the educational and health systems are not what they appear to be, there are no real life opportunities for the vast majority of youth, and despite their adaptation of political apathy - they deserve more as citizens of our world. Yes, I know that radical change will upset governments on both sides of the 90-mile divide, agri-business, petroleum interests, and - of course - the tourists on Varadero who will have their unspoiled vacation get-away "ruined." Yes, I know that seeking to leverage change there and not in China, for example, is not consistent. I say make a difference where you can and however you can!

The Cuban embargo?

Mary Jenkins — Wed, 06 Jun 2007 10:26:54 GMT

There is probably no need to post this. However, I thought I would underscore the notion that John Doe II may need to revisit his OWN education. What follows is a revised version of his posting. I AM an English teacher, and I give his post a C-. I am grading on only on GRAMMAR, not on the ridiculous topic choice! "I have read most of the opinions here. Regardless of whether I agree or not, it would be an amazing thing if people who profess an opinion could spell or use anything close to proper grammar. I am not an English teacher. Please people, if you are not educated well enough to express a decent thought via spelling or grammar, then where is your credibility? Cuba is one of the most "literate" countries in the Western Hemisphere. Try to live up to their standards."

The Cuban embargo?

Lazaro M. Syracuse NY — Wed, 06 Jun 2007 11:44:30 GMT

Hi Matt and all the group of the today show. I am Cuban and yesterday I saw the program in the morning. To me, that trip was a bad joke. If you guys go to New York City you won't say that midtown Manhattan is representative of the whole of New York City, right? Matt, you were on one block of the cleanest and best part of Havana. Every tourist loves that part of Havana. How about the parts of Havana that no one sees? There are parts of Havana that are nasty, decrepit, dirty, etc. No one seems to know about those parts but they are very close to where you were. The other thing on which we don't agree is about the embargo. Castro really started this embargo in a speech in 1961 he stated that he didn't need ANYTHING from the U.S. He could feed his starving people five times over with the money he has. He chooses not to. Next time that you go to Cuba, please don't criticize the embargo so much. Don't make the American government the enemy. Castro is the enemy. I don't represent any group. I'm a simple Cuban who lived under Castro's regime since I was born. I had 20 years of eating the scraps I was allowed to eat under the regime. Thank you.

The Cuban embargo?

Sandra, Liverpool NY — Wed, 06 Jun 2007 11:56:19 GMT

Do you realize that Cubans aren't permitted to enter and eat in those restaurants? They can't stay in those hotels? It's not that they haven't tried. It's not that they can't afford it. (Of course, they can ONLY afford it when their relatives in America send money to them.) Cubans are second class citizens in their own country. So many people in the U.S. have NO FREAKING IDEA what it is like for a Cuban to live under the dictatorship. That was the REAL story that you missed, Matt. The story you missed is the story of the dissidents, the families that have been torn apart single handedly by a regime that delights in their pain. I'm married to a Cuban. I'm American. You haven't lived until you've sat down to a Cuban's first meal in the U.S. I've seen grown men cry seeing all the food on the table and thinking they've died and gone to heaven. You haven't seen the tremendous gratitude and simultaneous heartbreak in their eyes. Gratitude for the one country that welcomed them with open arms (the U.S.) and heartbreak for the family left behind to continue suffering with hunger, repression and lies. I don't live in Miami. I live in Upstate NY. I'm not immersed in the Cuban exile community. I just know the stories from my husband and his family. I'm so so sorry that I may never have the opportunity to see the country that he grew up in. I could NEVER go to a hotel in Havana and live the "good life" knowing that my husband, 7 short years ago, would have been laughed at had he tried to gain entry. I makes me sick to my stomach. It should make all Americans sick. The sad thing is that Cuba gets painted again and again as the one renegade nation, that one nation that got under America's skin. It's praised as a hero...Castro as brilliant revolutionary. Castro may be brilliant, but he's EVIL. Take that how you want. I'm so blessed to be able to say that here without jail or execution. Think about it.

The Cuban embargo?

Geovannie Diaz, Groton,Connecticut — Wed, 06 Jun 2007 12:46:30 GMT

The embargo will remain because having communism fail in a Latin country is the only thing holding back Latin America from becoming a strictly socialist continent. If the Latin countries start to see progression in Cuba then maybe they'll start taking there governments back from capitalism and start spreading education and resources throughout Latin America.Thats the only way to stop illegal immigration in this country. One thing I can say about the Cuban people is they are the definition of loyality and courage and I'll take 10 CUBANS to war with me before I take any Cuban Americans(traitors) to war.

The Cuban embargo?

Armando Vilaseca, Burlington, Vermont — Wed, 06 Jun 2007 15:13:27 GMT

As a cuban-american who has legally traveled to Cuba on a number of occasions over the past 7 years it is obvious that our embargo only hurts the common folks of Cuna. I have been involved in food trade delegations between the State of Vermont and Cuba and have seen first hand the difficulties my fellow country men face in relation to food shortages. When I speak to regualr Cubans like my family and friends, the common theme from all of these conversations is to lift the embargo and travel restrictions in order to affect real change in Cuba. When Cubans are no longer spening a considerable amount of their time trying to feed themselves, then maybe they will have the energy and time to demand greater freedoms withion the island. I am not naive enough to assume these things will change the system overnight but it will start the process and make the US a player in Cuba's future. If all of the "tough talking" folks actually saw how my Cuban friends and family live(and their families as well) they would rec-consider their positions on trade and travel with Cuba. It's been almost 50 years and nothing has changed, isn't it time to try soemthing new? As president Bush said just 2 days ago, "The Cold War is over". Let's include Cuba in the end of that war.

The Cuban embargo?

victor, NJ — Wed, 06 Jun 2007 15:43:36 GMT

Hey Grenada Munroe, inform yourself before commenting: Cuban Population: 65% White 10% Black 24% Mestizo.

The Cuban embargo?

Manuel A. Tellechea, New Jersey — Wed, 06 Jun 2007 16:37:51 GMT

With Morro Castle as a backdrop, Matt Lauer remarked that the 16th century fortress at the entrance to Havana Harbor had been built to protect the city from pirates, and not skipping a beat, he introduced the subject of the U.S. trade embargo, leaving his viewers to make the implied connection. Because of the embargo (not, of course, the Communist system or the Castros' own venality), wages are low in Cuba (50 cents per day), but that's more than enough for Castro's hapless subjects, because, according to Lauer, there is low unemployment and no homelessness in Cuba, its people pay no taxes but still enjoy the boons of a high literacy rate and free healthcare. Where have we heard that before? Yes, on every U.S. television program ever broadcast from Cuba or documentary filmed there. So much for the expectation that many nourished about more open and less biased coverage of Cuba in the wake of the transition to nowhere. After commercials, interruptions and a running sideshow of (non-Cuban) freaks, there was a brief interview with a 17-year-old guitar player who asserted that the youth of Cuba are interested in music, not politics. But how could it be otherwise? The Castro regime fulfills all their material needs, leaving them all the time in the world to indulge their artistic pursuits. Later, Lauer would assure us that there is indeed "creative freedom" in Cuba at least in the arts. Matt has obviously never heart of the Padilla trial or Castro's injunction to Cuban writers and artists that "everything was possible within the Revolution but nothing outside it." But who would want to be outside the Revolution anyway? Certainly Lauer gives us no reason to justify such a "snobbish" attitude, and so it must naturally follow that dissent doesn't exist in Cuba; and since dissent doesn't exist there, then it follows naturally too that there must be no dissenters, which, explains, of course, their complete absence from the show. Next Matt briefly interviews a very haggard-looking Ricardo Alarcón and asks him, "Who is in charge in Cuba today." Finally, a question worth asking; but not, however, a question that Alarcón thinks worth answering and so he doesn't. Lauer, of course, does not take him to task for his evasion, but accepts Alarcon's assurances that everything is running smoothly in Cuba regardless of whom is in charge. After blaming the trade embargo for Cuba's collapsing infrastructure (as he will for everything negative which he observes on the island), Lauer has a brief interview with Marion Berry. No, not the cocaine sniffing former mayor of Washington DC, but the (white) congressman from Arkansas of the same name. Berry is a rice farmer. His government subsidies are obviously not enough for him. He wants to sell his rice to Cuba, which Lauer noted the U.S. already supplies with 10 percent of its rice imports. That 10 percent covers the needs of Cuba's elite. The other 90 percent consume a rice that has such natural additives as pebbles, talc, dead insects and their excrementa. This rice is imported from Vietnam where it is usually fed to hogs. Still it's good enough for the Cuban people, who before the Revolution imported only China's highest grade rice and consumed more of it than any other people on earth. After a teaser about a certain Rivero family that leads nowhere, Matt next has the most offensive exchange in the show with correspondent Andrea Mitchell, whose hatred for Cuban exiles is at least as rabid as the unlamented Katie Couric's (is that a job requirement for female reporters in the MSM?). She tells us that the U.S. and Cuba "have a shared interest and are working quietly together to make sure that [in the event of any change in Cuba] Miami people don't hit the boats and Cuban people don't hit the boats." And this is true: the U.S. and Cuba cooperate like allies when it comes to maintaining the status quo in Cuba or curbing the exiles' impulse to change it. In the view of the U.S. and Communist Cuba, Cuban exiles are not Cubans anymore; they are just "Miami people." And what do these Miami people want in Cuba? Is it to rescue their relatives as they did in the Mariel exodus? No, silly. The "Miami people" want their property back. Lauer observes that it is this fear of the "Miami people" which may be keeping Castro in power in Cuba, not, of course, the regime's apparatus of repression. The "Miami people," we might observe, though Lauer does not, have sent more in cash remittances to Cuba over the last 25 years than all the island's properties are worth. Matt then proceeded to make what is undoubtedly the most telling remark in all his reportage on Cuba -- he referred to the trade embargo as a "blockade" as in "Cuba has persevered in the face of challenges [including] the blockade." This was no doubt a concession to "balanced reporting." You see, by interchangeably using those terms, you demonstrate your impartiality. No you don't. What you demonstrate is that you don't know the meaning of either a "blockade" or an "embargo." In the bad old days of the Soviet Union, when Stalin made an an unexpected and incredible statement which took everybody's breath away, he usually prefixed it with "As is well-known..." Well, Matt used the same device when he declared with no hint of sarcasm: "We [Americans] know an awful lot about the history of Cuba." He then proceeded to tell us what Americans know (or at least believe they know): "Havana was a playground for tourists and gangsters. It was a period captured in the classic film The Godfather [II]." This was a refreshing admission that Coppola's toxic film is the source for everything that Americans know about pre-Castro Cuba, and, of course, it is a fictional representation which in turn derives its "historical facts" from the Castro regime's own hackneyed propaganda. More Cuban "history" follows: After the fall of the Soviet Union, Castro called for an "organic revolution," and, as if by magic, farmers' markets sprung up all over the island to supply the deficiencies of "The Special Period." So the fall of Communism actually "benefitted" the Cuban people materially just as every other calamity that has befallen them in the 48 years of Castro's rule. King Midas should have been that good. We next learn that Cuban grocery stores are filled with American goods. To prove it, Matt's goofer shows bottles of Hunt's Ketchup and Windex purchased in a Cuban store for an extravagant amount, which seems altogether reasonable to Matt, who obviously doesn't do his own shopping. However, the balding wunderkind failed to make the connection that the average Cuban worker earning 50 cents per day (according to him) would have to labor for more than two weeks to buy that $8.00 bottle of ketchup. And what does he conclude from that $8.00 bottle of ketchup: "A lot of people think that the time has come to end the embargo." Why? So that the Cuban people can buy that $8.00 bottle of ketchup from American capitalists rather than from Fidel? It is wily Fidel who wants the embargo to stay in place, Lauer reasons, supposedly because he gets to sell the people $8.00 bottles of ketchup. So let's thwart Fidel and lift the embargo and Cubans will be introduced to the $7.99 bottle of ketchup. Next came a debate of sorts -- you know, the kind when the debaters can't address each other directly -- between Sen. Bob Menéndez (D-NJ) and Kirby Jones of the U.S./Cuba Trade Association. Needless to say, Menéndez annihilated Kirby even though Lasuer cut him off when he mentioned jailed political dissidents (the only time they were mentioned in the show). Perhaps Lauer thought that because Sen. Menéndez is a Democrat he would be less "volatile" than Ileana or the Díaz-Balarts. He was wrong. Menendez is a cool character. He didn't miss the opportunity to praise Clinton's Cuba policy, but cut no slack to the opponents of the embargo or to the Castro regime. Kirby Jones, sitting beside Matt, surprised us with the most honest answer that any opponent of the embargo has ever given regarding it: "If this were a worldwide embargo, it would be another thing." Yes, indeed. It would most assuredly be "another thing." The "thing" it would be and the result it would produce can be seen in South Africa, where apartheid was flushed out precisely because all the world's nations banded together to repudiate it through a worldwide embargo. Even the Vatican, a constant critic of the embargo on Cuba, supported the embargo on South Africa. And speaking of apartheid, Matt acknowledged that it does exist in Cuba. For Matt, however, "tourism apartheid" did not consist of excluding Cubans from hotels, beaches and other facilities which are reserved for foreigners, but, rather, he defined apartheid not as segregation of the natives, but the preference given to maintaining tourist sites in a better state of repair than the buildings inhabited by Cuba. So, in other words, if Castro only handed out paint and brushes, "apartheid" as defined by Lauer would disappear in Cuba. But even if Castro can't give the Cuban people paint and brushes, he has given them games, that is, baseball, boxing and ballet (of course, Castro introduced all these to Cuba). In fact, "no country in the world has a greater appreciation for the arts than Cuba." This is one of Matt's many elliptical statements. Allow me to complete it: Nor does any country on earth control the arts and the artists as does Communist Cuba; nor does any country exploit artists more, cheat artists more or suppress artistic expression more. Speaking of the Cubans' love for baseball, Matt remarks that as soon as a boy is born in Cuba his parents want to get him a baseball bat and mitt. Another elliptical statement: Matt does not mention that the average Cuban parent will not be able to satisfy that desire unless he has relatives in Miami. Matt next extolls Cuban music with all the usual clichés. While interviewing Juan de Marcus, the Cuban producer of the Buena Vista Social Club, Matt actually declares "There is still creative freedom here [in Cuba] for artists." But most of the artists featured in the BVSC had been buried alive by the regime for 40 years and forced to work as laborers and shoeshine boys before an American record producer rescued them from oblivion and made himself and Castro another fortune (the artists themselves receiving little or nothing) from the vaunted sale of 12 million CDs. Marcus, not to be outdone, delivers himself of ths pearl: "Music is like the food for Cuba." Not just like it, but most of it. There followed a performance by Los Van-Van which was my cue to empty my bladder, so I can't critique it. And, finally, after several plugs, comes Elián, or, rather, he doesn't. He's 13 now and must be going through that teenage "angst" which is best not broadcast. In fact, his angst must out-angst all other adolescent angst. Matt does acknowledge that Elián is a propaganda tool, or, as Matt puts it, "he is being groomed for political office in Cuba." When the host in New York observes that Elián's Miami family has not been allowed to see him since he was returned to Cuba 7 years ago, Matt smirked and actually gobbled, the only word I could find to describe his facial and neck contorsions, which were necessary to prevent him from blurting out what he was really thinking: "The Miami relatives and all Cuban exiles can go to hell." Instead, after he regained his compusure, Matt blamed the distance between Cubans on the island and in exile for this separation. Of course, Fidel, who engineered it, and Juan González, who complied with Castro's orders, are not to blame. Elián's two "fathers" and scary "Uncle" Raúl had nothing to do with it. Matt even told a bold-faced lie when he asserted that Elián's father sued and won custody in U.S. courts. The fact is that the Clinton administration preempted the trial and subverted the justice system by kidnapping Elián at gunpoint and forcibly repatriating him to his "extended family" in Cuba. The program concludes with Matt being presented with a pure Irish linen guayabera, the kind that was last available in Cuba at El Encanto and which no Cuban can afford or wears today except the capos of the regime. He accepts it with very little graciousness, remarking that it is likely to be seized by "the trade embargo people" on his return to the U.S. owing to that bad, bad embargo. http://reviewofcuban-americanblogs.blogspot.com

The Cuban embargo?

William Richard Pabst Cathey — Wed, 06 Jun 2007 18:10:56 GMT

The embargo against Cuba has been just another, embarassing error of some twisted foreign policy managers. The Cuban Exiles who drifted into Florida need to look to the future to normalize their mindset. Their indoor sport of lamenting over the past accomplishes nothing. Similarly, Cuba's pathetic and mega corrupt Bautista past serves as a model for nothing. Time to wake up and look toward the future.

The Cuban embargo?

Ft Lauderdale Fl — Wed, 06 Jun 2007 18:27:47 GMT

Being Cuban Born and having my dad spend time in a Cuban concentration camp I can say that dealing with Castro and that government is as if we were dealing with Hitler or BinLaden.

The Cuban embargo?

cuban exiled — Wed, 06 Jun 2007 20:15:28 GMT

"Those people" who live in Miami...They are cubans too...The embargo is right...Nothing has change in Cuba...What cuban people needs is FREEDOM.

The Cuban embargo?

cuban — Wed, 06 Jun 2007 20:19:33 GMT

And Ladies in White???? Did you visit The Ladies in White? or the cuban goverment(dictatorship) does not allow this kind of visit????

The Cuban embargo?

john florida — Wed, 06 Jun 2007 21:35:26 GMT

fred alexander: are the people in south florida not cubans? do they forget all they have lived with because they landed here . their families in cuba should mean nothing cause they are here. did landing on american soil make the deaf dumb and blind and forgetful? why would they no longer be cuban ??

The Cuban embargo?

Liza, FL — Wed, 06 Jun 2007 22:34:19 GMT

To LINDA MOORE from BOSTON. I would love to email you a picture of my cousin taken in a Cuban hosptial August 2006 (medicines for him were sent there from here b/c the hospital didn't have any). After you see the conditions, let me know if you think that kind of "free healthcare" is worth it. If so, maybe you should go live in Cuba. Oh, and by the way, about their education, my 20-something year old cousin came to the US from Cuba 3 years ago, and there were a lot of basic things she didn't learn in school that our fifth graders know. And yes, the gov't does provide free school lunches that consist of sugar water and bread. If anyone wants to know the real Cuba, talk to a Cuban immigrant, (like one of the many who have risked their lives on make-shift rafts to come to the US), or go to Cuba and stay with a Cuban family, not in a tourist hotel. And to those of you calling Cuban Americans hypocrites, think about this...you are thrown in jail because you don't agree with the Castro regime; you are finally released (one of the lucky ones not executed) and forced to leave your country and family. Now, your mother, father, or etc. is very ill, but curable. The Cuban hospitals don't have the medicine, but you can easily get it here. Do you send it and save your relative, or say "no, I don't want to be a hypocrite"? Castro really knew what he was doing when he planned his takeover. He knew that Cuban families would try to stick together even if 90 miles apart. He knows the families in the US will not let their relatives in Cuba die if they can help it. So, he has more money and supplies for his people and tourists. Its a double edged sword. So you can't blame people when they choose family over politics. I just hate for people to be misled. There are a lot of people in this world that believe everything they see on tv, and it just isn't so. Please educate yourselves and ask questions. Thanks.

The Cuban embargo?

El Compañero, Florida — Wed, 06 Jun 2007 23:14:27 GMT

Matt Laueer’s coverage of Cuba lacked balance and objectivity. The NBC (either intentionally or unintended) failed to interview Cuban dissidents and the millions of citizens discontent with the regime. The viewer never got a chance to view the ‘Other Embargo’ - the one from the Cuban government to its people. It is this ‘Other Embargo’ the one with the biggest impact on individual lives. Certainly it is not the US embargo the one responsible for the lack of freedoms in Cuba. It is not the US embargo the one responsible for the fact that Cubans cannot organize or express freely. What Cuba really needs is to have ‘The Other Embargo’ ‘The Castro Embargo’ on liberties lifted.

The Cuban embargo?

Cris, Florida — Thu, 07 Jun 2007 02:17:49 GMT

A few words on Fidel Castro for those who idolize him. He is a murderer who is responsible for the deaths of hundreds upon hundreds of innocent Cuban men and women. Through the years, he has killed and imprisoned scores of people just because they dared to speak against him and his regime. He doesn't allow the Cuban people basic privileges, such as freedom of speech, press, and assembly; the right to vote; and the privilege of using the Internet. I say this to those who extol Castro's virtues in the hopes that the next time they sit at their computers in their comfortable homes to write a pro-Castro comment on a blog, they realize that if they lived in Cuba -- whether or not there was a U.S. embargo in place -- they would not be allowed to express their opinions unless they were in line with the Cuban government. Think about that before you trash the U.S. and cheer for Castro's Cuba.

The Cuban embargo?

Abraham C. Costa Mesa C.A. — Thu, 07 Jun 2007 02:19:29 GMT

I think that when Castro goes new solutions should come for the people living in Cuba and a new better positive side of a government for Cuba and its citizens.

The Cuban embargo?

Cris, Florida — Thu, 07 Jun 2007 02:45:25 GMT

Hats off to Manuel Tellechea -- your well-written comment is right on! It was refreshing to read after sifting through so many ignorant, misinformed, nasty and unfortunate comments.

The Cuban embargo?

Elle Carrera Miami Fl — Thu, 07 Jun 2007 03:54:39 GMT

I was born in the US and my parents are cuban. I consider myself an American because I live here the US and this is my country. I have been to Cuba four times in my life. Your article is incorrect when you say that people who visit Cuba from the US go for vacations. Aside from students, religious groups, the media, and medical staff people like myself have family in the island. We are allowed to visit close relatives(parents, grandparents, siblings, children,) every 3 years for a maximum of 21 days. These visits are in no way a vacation for us. When I travel there I stay in my family's 1 bedroom house with no air conditioning, the power is cut off by the government at a certain time, and we all eat the same things and take cold showers due to the lack of plumbing supplying hot water. The money that we would have spent at a hotel has to be given to my family instead to get the necessaties that they need for their home and themselves. When you leave or enter Cuba airport officials check your bags and if they feel that you are not allowed to bring in certain items they will take it away or charge you $200 sometimes if they feel like it. Asimple item would be clothes, and any other personal belongings they think you are leaving behind for your family. You express how the Cubans on the island are allowed to purchase items in the store, but they are only able to do so with the new currency. Most of the items Cubans need are purchased in black markets because the governments ratio card is not enough to feed your family. by the age of 7, children are no longer able to receive milk through the ratio card. You recieve 5 lbs of rice for the month regardless of the size of your family. The Cuban people have no freedom of expression as we do here and are not allowed to talk about the situation in Cuba and what is really going on. Its true that there are a lot of doctors and medical staff i Cuba, but there is a lack of supplies and the conditions in the hospitals are beyond clean and healthy. Its nice that the Today show reported cultural arts in Cuba. What isn't nice is that you failed to report on the opression and suffering of the country as you have reported it in the past with other countries.

The Cuban embargo?

Betty Wyatt, Dallas, Texas — Thu, 07 Jun 2007 15:46:52 GMT

Grow up America. It is sad that a bunch of elected "good ol'boys" are keeping Americans out of Cuban association, marketing and enthusiasm....and yet, they make the Cubans do the boat thing, still. (Let's let those guys experience the joy(?) of riding "that" 90 miles in a row boat... We stopped the VietNam disatorious boat thing. What's wrong with these stodgy ol' men? Many of whom secretly smoke those illegal Cuban Cigars. This looks wrong....doesn't it?

The Cuban embargo?

Karyn, Costa Mesa, CA — Thu, 07 Jun 2007 20:44:45 GMT

Just wait for Castro to die and the embargo will be lifted. I don't understand why the embargo is there in the first place, but if it is just because Cuba is communist, what is our excuse for trading with China? The Cold War is over and we just need to get over the problems we had in the past. Cuba is our neighbor and we don't need to be fighting with them. Obviously our products are getting there whether or not we directly send them there ourselves so lift the embargo and let our tourists visit Cuba.

The Cuban embargo?

Susan Farrington, Seattle WA — Thu, 07 Jun 2007 21:47:03 GMT

I remember watching that young man stand up to that tank and thinking,"Oh my God, they will just run over him, what does human life mean to them!" Reality is that governments don't really care about the people--we are just numbers, worker bees, tax payers. Governments are for the few and the powerful. For us they are just means to keeps us under control, ignorant, and compliant. We as a nation are consuming tainted food, going in debt for decades to finance China's economy, and probably taking drugs that are not effective and cheaply made. I wonder what it is that governments fear-certainly not us little people?

The Cuban embargo?

Kenny Norfolk, VA — Mon, 09 Jul 2007 16:56:29 GMT

The embargo should be lifted, why?? Because it will lead to the end of the communist government in Cuba. Think about it...how many "abnoxious loud yanks" would love to go to Havana?? I would. Think of all the money that would be dumped into the country. The people would hopefully gain the confidence to overthrow the regime and have elections of some sort.
But then I guess the Brits and Canuks would have to find another place to go on vacation...how about Iran? There are no americans there!!!

The Cuban embargo?

Josh, Tampa, FL — Fri, 13 Jul 2007 00:04:25 GMT

BB, Louisiana: While I am not sure I understand Kelly's comments, before you declare that we had no hand in Cuba's current situation you should verify the historical facts. Castro's revolution was motivated by the US's propping-up of the corrupt Batista regime. When Castro came to power he attempted to establish diplomatic relations with the US and only met with the USSR when he was summarily snubbed by US leadership during a visit to New York. I'm not saying we SHOULD help to "rebuild" Cuba, but to disavow any involvement in the events that helped to create the Cuba we know today is disingenuous.

The popular opinion about Cuba has been warped by the powerful South Florida Cuban lobby. As a first-generation US-born Cuban it is clear that this embargo has no basis in today's world.