In response to John Tirman`s Op-Ed article of Feb. 1: Why should the U.S. change its relations with Cuba? How much has really changed in Cuba? Even in these harsh economic times, political repression has only intensified. How could lifting the embargo help?
Who are the ”knowledgeable observers” that have been allowed into Cuban prisons? And aren`t 100 political prisoners too many? This is not the first time Castro has made overtures to the U.S. It is heartwarming to hear him say that Cuba will no longer export revolution, but let`s not be fooled. He did not leave Angola or Nicaragua to please the U.S. And he did not break with the Soviets, they turned their backs on him.
Castro claims to have given his people education, racial equality and health care, and that ”human rights are broader than political freedom.” Why then do so many people risk their lives to leave? Could it be for basic things like food, soap and free speech? What is it that drives a person to leave their home and family and risk being shot or dying at sea?
