HATUEY: A medical aid project is launched in solidarity with Cuba

Visit the project's website here

A new humanitarian aid campaign, The Hatuey Project, is being launched today with the aim of helping Cuba overcome the harmful effects of the 60-year U.S. economic blockade. Formed by health advocates — doctors, nurses and social justice activists — the Hatuey Project adds to the ranks of organizations in the United States and worldwide that are extending medical solidarity to Cuba.

HATUEY stands for Health Advocates in Truth, Unity and EmpathY, and is in honor of the Taíno man who led the struggle in Cuba against the Spaniard colonizers who brutalized the Indigenous people. He was burned at the stake by the oppressors in 1512. Hatuey is recognized as one of the first resisters against colonialism.

Dr. Nadia Marsh, longtime medical provider currently practicing in Albuquerque, says, “Now more than ever, during the pandemic, the U.S. blockade, which prevents life-saving medicines from reaching the Cuban people, must end. The Hippocratic Oath compels us as healthcare workers to organize against these medical crimes against the Cuban people. The Hatuey Project will deliver much needed medicines to Cuba as a first step in that direction.”

Dr. Simon Ma, MD, MPH, who practices family medicine in Oakland, California, stated that, “The U.S. has much to learn from the public health and scientific innovations of Cuba as well as the ways in which the Cuban government cares for its people. Instead, the U.S. imposes sanctions and an economic blockade that causes immense human suffering. The Hatuey Project provides essential material relief for the Cuban people and supports their healing and wellness in the face of hardships caused by U.S. imperialist policies. I am proud to support the Hatuey Project and highly encourage you to contribute as well!”

As Hatuey member and nuerosciences researcher Sofía Páez explains, “This is an exciting project that I am proud to be part of. As a neurosciences researcher I will do everything I can to help the people of Cuba overcome the blockade. This is our humble effort to reciprocate for all of Cuba’s remarkable medical internationalism.”

Gloria La Riva, coordinator of the Hatuey Project, explains Hatuey’s first medical goal. “There are 133 special homes throughout Cuba that care for pregnant women at risk, due to previous miscarriages or other health issues. In late July, a special delegation will deliver much-needed pre-natal vitamins and other meds to those homes. This is of particular urgency.”

The Hatuey Project is emphasizing the need for monetary donations for an efficient, bulk purchase of those medicines. But in addition, volunteer help is welcome to contact pharmaceuticals and other medical providers to seek material donations. With major medical shipments, we will ship through export licenses. 

Visit the Project's website for more information