November 20, 2018

Dear John,

I want to personally invite you to travel with me to Cuba from December 14-21 (or December 14-18 if you can’t stay that long). We at CODEPINK set these dates to commemorate better times, when President Obama restored diplomatic relations on December 17, 2014, and to call for a change in policy. You can find all the details of the trip here <[link removed]>.

With the thaw in relations in 2014, the people of Cuba were elated, thinking that the embargo would be lifted and their economy would thrive. Instead, Trump came in and imposed brutal sanctions. He wants to push back on any achievements of the Obama administration, and he thinks that a policy of maximum pressure on Cuba and Venezuela will help him win Florida in the presidential election. Trump’s inhumane policies, which are creating shortages of oil, food and medicines, are punishing 10 million Cubans. Now is the time to show our solidarity with the Cuban people. 

Is it still legal to travel to Cuba, you might ask? While Trump has tightened the travel restrictions, it is legal to go through our Cuba partners, Proximity Cuba, who have organized a program designed to fit the legal category of “supporting the Cuban people.” They have planned a terrific schedule that allows us to participate in community programs and cultural activities, stay in private bed and breakfasts with Cuban families, and explore humanitarian projects related to health and the environment. And of course, you can’t go to Cuba without hearing great music, dancing and enjoying the gregarious, fun-loving spirit of the Cuban people—even in these times of adversity. Oh, one added benefit: As winter approaches here at home, there is no better antidote than being bathed by the Caribbean sun. 

We have made the trip as inexpensive as possible to make it accessible to a more diverse group. You can see the prices, a detailed itinerary and how tosign up here <[link removed]>. Please sign up now, as space is limited. If you have more questions, you can contact Teri Mattson <mailto:[email protected]>.

I have a long personal history with the island, having lived there in the early 1980s, returned every few years since then and written three books on Cuba. When I lived there, the Soviet Union still existed and its vigorous trade with Cuba allowed the island to provide for the basic needs of all and develop a health-care system that was the envy of nations all over the world. Many of the gains have faded over the years, but Cuba remains one of the most fascinating places on earth—a country still desperately trying to create an alternative to the rapacious capitalism that is destroying our planet. For that alone, it deserves our support. 

So please considering joining me on this unique delegation in December to see the effects of Trump’s sanctions and to call for the restoration of diplomatic relations with our island neighbors. 

Abrazos,
Medea





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