Here is an invitation for readers and for you. I have written President Bush asking him to end, at least temporarily, the restrictions on Cuban travel and remittances. U.S. citizens who wish to travel to Cuba to assist in re-building from the damage caused by Hurricanes Gustav and Ike should be able to do so. In addition, Cuban-Americans should be able to send as much money to family members in Cuba as they are able to. The $100 per month limit should be lifted.
I am aware through my research that Gustav caused up to $5 billion in damage, and the United Nations estimates that Ike piled on between $3 billion and $4 billion more in losses. Some 500,000 houses have been damaged, of which 63,000 are totally destroyed. Infrastructure and agriculture have also sustained significant damage.
The Cuban travel ban is unwise and unpopular. The isolationist policy toward Cuba by successive U.S. administrations has failed to accomplish its goals. There was a recent Gallup Poll issued saying that 67 percent of Americans surveyed favor re-establishing diplomatic relations with Cuba (vs. 27 percent who oppose). This view was reflected across political lines.
At this crucial time, a demonstration of true support by the United States for the people of Cuba would serve a humanitarian purpose, as well as improve the relationship between the U.S. and Cuba. This both helps the people of Cuba and serves the long-term interests of the United States. So, I issue this invitation to others to exercise their penmanship.
