NNOC Statement on first Anniversary of December 17
Today, December 17 is the first anniversary of the events of December 17, 2014. First of all we note with joy and continue to celebrate the return of Gerardo, Ramón, and Antonio to their homeland, families, and communities. Whenever we think of Cuba we recognize the efforts of the 5 Cuban Heroes and continue to be inspired by their dignity and sacrifice. We honor the unwavering support of the Cuban people and the many people in the United States and the international community whose determination resulted in the long overdue freeing of Rene, Fernando, Antonio, Ramon, and Gerardo.
One year ago, on December 17 both President Castro and President Obama announced the decision to begin the process of normalizing relations with President Obama acknowledging the failure of United States policy to destroy the Cuban revolution. Since then embassies have been opened in both countries, Cuba was removed from the list of state sponsors of terrorism, and ongoing dialogue between the two countries has taken place.
Despite the rhetoric of President Obama the economic, commercial and financial blockade continues to be enforced, the right of the U.S. people to travel without restrictions to Cuba continues to be denied, the opportunity of Cuban citizens to travel to the United States in order to participate in conferences, etc. is impeded by the denial or delay of visa requests, regime change programs continue to operate with full funding and support of U. S. Congress, the establishment of bi-lateral trade and commerce has not taken place, the United States has imposed multi-million dollar fines on financial institutions doing business in Cuba, the “wet foot/dry foot” immigration policy continues, and inexplicably, IFCO/Pastors for Peace is again being harassed and threatened by OFAC and Department of Treasury. As clearly demonstrated by the October, 2014 vote in the United Nations, the United States remains isolated from the rest of the world in its policy toward Cuba.
Congress has failed to act and, to date President Obama has not utilized executive authority to lift certain provisions of the blockade. President Obama must honor his commitment to close the prison at Guantanamo and additionally return the illegally occupied territory to Cuba. There is much more that can and must be done. We cannot allow the United States to continue with its 54 year old failed policy to destroy the Cuban Revolution. We use this day, December 17, to again demand that the United States illegal blockade be lifted and that the United States respect the sovereignty and self-determination of the Cuban people. As co-chairs of the National Network on Cuba we call on all U.S. solidarity organizations to continue working firmly and united until the blockade is lifted.
Nalda Vigezzi
Alicia Jrapko
Cheryl LaBash
Banbose Shango
Franklin Curbelo
