Political Reform in Cuba, An Internal Matter
Cuba will hold an unprecedented conference this weekend of its political leadership, immersed in a deep economic reform program. Though generally viewed with skepticism and indifference, the meeting is also generating certain hopes for political reforms on the island.
Cuba Trip: A Strange Map and Rusted Shackles on a Desk
While a good friend was here, we spent some time 60 km southwest of Havana, in a country town called Artemisa. Just getting out to the Cafetal Angerona (the remains of a 19th century plantation) was an adventure.
Reporting on a Death from Cuba, No Easy Task
The Death of Cuban prisoner Wilman Villar put us reporters in a dilemma that, while not new, is more dramatic: that of finding out where the truth lies in the midst of a web of political statements coming from both sides.
Shopping in Cuba and My Sense of Guilt
I have to say that this might sound unbelievable, but I assure you that it’s 100 percent true. Some time ago, I started experiencing a strange anxiety every time I had to go to a store (one that sells goods in hard currency).
More Production in Cuba Won’t Lead Directly to Lower Prices
The problem is not simply to produce more, but how to achieve this and for whose benefit. Producing more, regardless of the way this is done, could result in returning land to those who have the money, skills and resources to expand production: US companies and property owners of the past.
The Legacy of My College Professors
Given the constant degeneration of moral values that we’re presently confronting, the university is a place that has become a valuable spiritual refuge. Although many issues exist affecting higher education in Cuba, at the university one can find a pathway, an escape valve.
State of Shock in Today’s Cuba
In “The Shock Doctrine: The Rise of Disaster Capitalism”, Naomi Klein notes that in the middle of the 20th century, the CIA funded psychological research aimed at deconstructing and infantilizing human minds using electroshock treatment, drugs, sensory isolation, the monotonous repetition of signs and other techniques.
Hazardous Made in China Sandals
Two days ago I received by forwarded e-mail a message that read: “VERY IMPORTANT! Health care professionals recommend that consumers beware of anything that is “Made in China,” especially products containing yellow, red or orange dye.
Plumbing Issues in Cuba
Sometimes a problem that’s very simple to solve problem can turn into a persistent nuisance. This is the case of water hoses, the ones that connect supply lines to sinks and toilet tanks.
Are You Familiar with this Photo of Fidel Castro?
Last week I came across a rare photo of Fidel that I found amazing. I’m providing it here for the readers of Havana Times so you can tell me if you think the same.
Cuba’s Blind Bloggers
Writing for a site that you can hardly access is something normal here in Cuba. Cyberspace is filled with Cuban blogs whose authors only rarely are able check their entries, much less interact with their readers.
A Concert of Dogs and Cats
Dogs have always been considered “man’s best friend.” They’re loyal to the grave, at least according to Angela, my neighbor from across the street. She has 16 of them!
The Death of a Young Cuban
The death in Santiago de Cuba of young Wilman Villar Mendoza, 31, after nearly two months on a hunger strike, forces one to choose whether to turn their head or to raise their voice against the incompatibility of what has happened with the most elementary sense of humanity.
