For many years, the issue of poverty and marginalization was taboo in Cuban social sciences. It was a theme that was incompatible with the triumphant political line of a revolution that had supposedly eliminated — forever — the scourge of social exclusion.
Read MoreEverything done for reconciliation, respect for differences, love for one’s neighbor, protecting the helpless, fairness and social justice in Cuba is positive.
Read MoreIt’s no secret that many people’s mouths around the world are watering over the visit of His Holiness Benedict XVI to Cuba. But not all this is the result of delighted anticipation. And frankly, some of it is poisonous and violent slobber, though few mouth’s will cease to water.
Read MoreA few years ago, the statue of Austrian composer Johann Strauss Jr. disappeared from a small park located on the corner between Linea and G streets here in Havana. At that time I naively thought that the sculpture of the “the king of waltz” had been removed for restoration purposes.
Read MoreFor years I’ve worked hard to understand the role of trade unions, at least those here in Cuba. In history classes they taught us that these had emerged as vehicles for workers to stand up against factory owners and companies. I assumed that membership was voluntary here as one of our rights as workers.
Read MoreChurch-state relations in Cuba are now at their best since 1959. They are even better than during the 1998 visit by John Paul II, but the atmosphere isn’t the same.
Read MoreHavana’s public transportation system is in crisis. The official media is pointing the finger at “transportation workers and public negligence.” They advocate more control and repressive measures.
Read MoreA couple of days ago I heard a story in which they criticized the United States for having so many homeless people on the streets. That was something that made me laugh, but at the same time I felt a certain unease. In my view, the author of the story must live in another world, or they drive to work every day, or hasn’t walked the streets of Havana for quite a long time.
Read MoreThe recent occupation of several Catholic church buildings by opposition groups — including one which a dozen protesters maintained in the capital for 48 hours — is putting on the table another sign of how politics in Cuba is beginning to be played.
Read MoreEveryone knows that when it comes to weddings, the bride’s grown always has to be the most beautiful. That is why it is the tradition in many countries for the guests never to wear white dresses or light colors, so as not to overshadow the bride.
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