Solidarity message to Cuba

27.JUL.07

Editor: The St. Vincent & the Grenadines – Cuba Friendship Society would like to extend profound greetings and congratulations to the Government & People of Cuba on the occasion of the commemoration of the 54th Anniversary of the attack on the Moncada Barracks which is celebrated on the 26th July each year.{{more}}

On that historic day 54 years ago, Fidel Castro led a small group of brave, patriotic revolutionaries in an attack on the second largest military barracks in Cuba with the objective of bringing about the demise of a corrupt and dictatorial regime led by Fulgencio Batista. Although the assault failed and the military objectives were not achieved at the time, the event turned out to be an important precursor and dress rehearsal for the epic battles which followed and the triumph of the Revolution which came six years later.

The historic significance of this event is manifesting itself today in very real and practical ways in our society by the growing levels of cooperation and friendship between our two countries. The generous and selfless assistance and support that we are receiving from Cuba, in so many forms and in diverse sectors of our economy, is as a direct result of the historic struggles and achievements of the Cuban people and the revolutionary vision and leadership that evolved out of the 26th July Movement.

On this commemorative occasion we take the opportunity once more to reiterate our call as Friends of Cuba, for an end to the criminal economic blockade imposed on this sovereign nation. We also reiterate our call for the unconditional release of the five Cubans who have been unjustly incarcerated in the United States since September 12th, 1998 as targets of reprisals against the Cuban Revolution, while the notorious terrorist, Posada Carriles, was released a few months ago by the same US authorities rather than being made to stand trial for his implication in the 1976 downing of a Cubana Airline plane.

The lessons of 26th July, 1953 have taught the world that no force on earth could stop the forward march of history and a people determined to achieve their freedom. Unfortunately, there are still those detractors in our midst who continue to distort the truth about Cuba to keep our people in ignorance in order to further their own narrow partisan and personal agendas. But if the truth be told, there could be no denying that Cuba stands today as a beacon of hope for progressive people all over the world, and as Friends of Cuba, we are proud to be part of such a distinguished community.

As the people of Cuba observe another glorious anniversary we would like to convey our best wishes and optimism for a full recovery of the Cuban President, Fidel Castro. We say with all sincerity to Fidel that “Humanity awaits your return”

SVG – CUBA FRIENDSHIP SOCIETY