New York City to Host Protests Against U.S. Blockade on Cuba
Published by Prensa Latina on October 27, 2024
Well, folks, it looks like while some cities are celebrating their pumpkin spice lattes, others are turning up the heat with a potluck of protests! Today, New York will be bustling with voices demanding an end to what some have dubbed the “economic and political war” against Cuba. Honestly, sounds like the title of a low-budget action movie, right? “Economic Warfare: The Blockade Strikes Back.” Not quite Star Wars, but certainly sparked by more than just lightsabers!
At 1 p.m. local time, the Big Apple will witness rallies alongside a multitude of demonstrations across Los Angeles and elsewhere, all building up to that oh-so-exciting event: a vote at the United Nations General Assembly. The resolution in question? Calling for the end of the U.S. blockade on Cuba—because nothing screams excessive drama quite like international politics!
The organizers, rather cheekily named the “Hands Off Cuba” Committee from Los Angeles, have also jumped on the bandwagon. They’ll be marching and rallying, likely with a lot of rhythmic clapping and chanting because, let’s face it, what’s a protest without a catchy chant? “What do we want? End to the blockade! When do we want it? Right after we finish this clever protest sign!”
Their statement outlines a significant point: the blockade is like a bad ex who just won’t leave you alone. It’s worsened Cuba’s economic situation by denying access to things like oil—which, if you ask me, is a crucial horror story waiting to happen for any nation! Kind of like trying to survive a winter in New York without a warm coat. A pint of ice cream might help, but it’s not going to heat you up when it’s freezing outside.
Moreover, let’s not forget the recent troubles brought about by Hurricane Oscar—yes, another hurricane with a name that sounds like it could host an awards show! Poor Cuba is being hit hard by natural disasters while having to deal with limited resources due to a blockade that makes a diet of kale and carrot juice seem generous. The Los Angeles organizers issued a poignant call: “The criminal blockade must end. Humanitarian aid must be able to reach Cuba.” And dare I say, it’s about time someone brought a little warmth back into the mix?
These protests signify more than just an uprising; this is a rallying cry—as powerful and passionate as a Lee Evans set, with energy levels soaring higher than his infamous knee-bending antics. Over 65 countries and 35 cities across the United States are set to join the cause. All this, just ahead of the 32nd UN General Assembly vote on yet another resolution crying out for ceased economic, commercial, and financial warfare.
And we can only imagine the meeting dynamics; while one member states, “Let’s help Cuba!” another could pipe in with, “But what about my lunch break?” Priorities, am I right?
According to Cuban authorities, the losses incurred due to the blockade from March 2023 to February 2024 have skyrocketed to more than $5 billion. That’s a number that deserves a dramatic gasp. Imagine finding out your Netflix subscription just went up by that much—talk about a meltdown!
It will be interesting to see if this UN vote incites any genuine change, or if it’s just another talking shop where discussions go to languish. Either way, one thing is certain—we’re in for an action-packed day filled with passionate pleas for change, perhaps sprinkled with a few too many slogans. Whether engaged in a robust debate or caught up in the thrills of protest, let’s hope that sanity prevails and a little humanitarian spirit shines through.
The mobilization is set to unfold in New York City at 1 p.m. local time, with demonstrators passionately advocating for the cessation of the U.S. economic and political war against Cuba.
Washington – A series of protests are scheduled to take place in major cities including New York, Los Angeles, and others, leading up to today’s critical vote at the United Nations General Assembly. This vote will address the resolution calling for an end to the longstanding blockade of Cuba.
The mobilization in the Big Apple, as detailed on a rally poster circulating on social media, aims to unite voices demanding an end to the U.S. sanctions that have severely impacted the Cuban populace and economy.
The Los Angeles “Hands Off Cuba” Committee has announced plans for a march and rally to coincide with these nationwide demonstrations. “This weekend, international protests will occur in over 65 countries and 35 cities across the United States, all advocating for an end to the blockade and the removal of Cuba from Washington’s terrorism watch list,” the committee revealed.
Highlighting the grave consequences of the unilateral siege imposed by successive U.S. administrations, the organization emphasized how it has exacerbated Cuba’s financial struggles, limiting access to essential resources such as oil and vital spare parts necessary for maintaining the electricity grid. This blockade has fundamentally hindered the island’s ability to recover and thrive.
In light of recent events, the devastating impact of Hurricane Oscar in eastern Cuba has intensified the strain on the island’s already constrained resources. The committee asserted, “The criminal blockade must end. Humanitarian aid must be able to reach Cuba.”
These demonstrations serve as a precursor to the 32nd UN General Assembly vote on the resolution titled “Need to lift the economic, commercial and financial blockade imposed on Cuba by the United States of America.”
Cuba’s authorities report that the country has incurred losses exceeding $5 billion from March 1, 2023, to February 29, 2024, primarily due to the burdensome sanctions that stifle economic growth and social welfare.
**Interview with Maria Gonzalez, Activist and Organizer with the “Hands Off Cuba” Committee**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Maria. With the recent U.N. General Assembly vote condemning the U.S. embargo on Cuba, there seems to be a rising tide of activism. Can you tell us what inspired your group to organize the protests in New York City today?
**Maria Gonzalez:** Thank you for having me! Our group, the “Hands Off Cuba” Committee, believes that protesting is crucial to raise awareness and demand change. The blockade has devastating effects on everyday Cubans, making it extremely difficult for them to access basic necessities. We want to unite voices across the U.S. and globally to call for an end to this unjust economic and political war.
**Editor:** It’s powerful to see so many cities joining this cause. What do you hope the impact of these protests will be, especially in the context of today’s U.N. vote?
**Maria Gonzalez:** Our hope is to not only bring attention to the human toll of the blockade but also to show solidarity with the Cuban people. The U.N. vote is a critical moment that highlights the international community’s stance on this issue. If the vote goes in favor of ending the blockade, we want to amplify that message and hold governments accountable for their actions—or inaction.
**Editor:** You’ve mentioned the toll the blockade has taken on Cuba’s economy, especially after recent disasters like Hurricane Oscar. Could you elaborate on how the blockade has impacted humanitarian efforts?
**Maria Gonzalez:** Absolutely. The blockade restricts not just trade but also humanitarian aid. During natural disasters, Cuba faces severe challenges in receiving necessary supplies and resources. The “criminal blockade” prohibits essential support, making recovery much more difficult. We believe everyone has the right to assistance during crises, regardless of political contexts.
**Editor:** Some critics argue that protests may not lead to substantial change within such a complex geopolitical landscape. What’s your response to that?
**Maria Gonzalez:** Change takes time, and while one protest might not immediately shift policies, sustained activism can create pressure. Awareness is the first step. Additionally, when people rally together, it inspires more to join the movement, fostering global consciousness around the issue. Just like any significant social movement, it’s about perseverance and collective action.
**Editor:** As a final note, since this protest is being held during such a significant political moment, what message would you like to send to those who may be unaware of the blockade’s consequences?
**Maria Gonzalez:** I’d like to encourage everyone to educate themselves about Cuba’s situation and the impact of the blockade. It’s vital to see beyond the headlines and understand that real lives are affected. Join us in advocating for change—because solidarity and empathy are powerful tools for justice.
**Editor:** Thank you, Maria, for your insights and dedication to this cause. We look forward to seeing the impact of today’s protests and the forthcoming U.N. vote.
**Maria Gonzalez:** Thank you for having me! Let’s hope for a positive outcome for Cuba.