Say no to U.S blockade of Cuba

We call on to Australian government to use its close relationship with the US Government to help the people of Cuba, who have been devastated by hurricanes Gustav and Ike.  We have heard about the appalling damage affecting Haiti and the US Gulf Coast, but almost nothing about the massive destruction in Cuba.  Seven Cubans have died and almost 1 million homes have been either wholly or partially damaged.

Cuba is not asking for handouts, but for the cruel blockade to be lifted to allow the government to buy food, medicines, construction materials and components to re-establish electricity supplies. 

Writing to President Bush, US Catholic Bishops said:

'At times of crisis, there are simple and basic acts of charity on which people rely.  Churches, as well as governments, urge people to reach out and respond with generosity to those in desperate need.  The United States has a tradition of such ass istance for which it can be rightly proud. At this time, all should be done to facilitate humanitarian assistance...Removing restrictions on remittances and travel to Cuba are a necessary step which I urge you take without delay.'

We therefore call on you to urge the US Government to - at the very least - suspend its blockade of Cuba at this particular time. We also ask you to send relief aid to Cuba as a matter of urgency.  If a poor country like Cuba can manage to send 200 doctors to East Timor in a display of international generosity, then surely relatively wealthy Australia can extend a helping hand to Cuba.

We look forward to a swift and positive response to our request.