Imagine a country where the literacy rate is almost 100 percent, universities are free, and guaranteed healthcare is universal. Well, that country is Cuba. And members of the International Feminist Brigade, the first of its kind, will soon see it for themselves – in order to arm themselves to better protect the embattled island against U.S. aggression.
The Brigade is scheduled for September 20-October 2, 1997. Launched jointly by the Federation of Cuban Women and Radical Women, it will consist of up to 60 women and men committed to broadening the global movement in support of Cuba and to organizing political pressure on the U.S. government to end its long, inhuman economic blockade.
During their stay, Brigadistas will talk with and work alongside Cubanos. They will cap their visit with a two-day Solidarity Conference in Havana to plan actions in defense of Cuba and its right to build toward a socialist society. Once home, Brigadistas will implement the decisions of the conference.
The Brigade is unique in its activist and feminist orientation. Participants will be exposed to and will bring back the heroic story of Cuban women – their struggles, their impressive gains since the 1959 revolution, and their lives under the embargo.
Brigade organizing committees are up and running in seven cities in Australia, Canada, and the U.S. The committees publicize the Brigade far and wide, raise funds and plan activities, and feature educational reports at regular meetings.
International Brigade Coordinator Debra O’Gara points out that as much as Cuba needs its friends, its friends need Cuba. Says O’Gara, “Brigadistas will gain firsthand knowledge of Cuba’s amazing achievements and see directly how wealth can be shared and life can be more egalitarian and beautiful when capitalism isn’t dictating national priorities. Participating in the Brigade is a golden opportunity to learn about Cuba. And this change is something we can work toward in our own countries, as well as defend in Cuba.”
To apply to join the Brigade and/or to help with the organizing effort, contact the Seattle Brigade Committee at 1-206-722-6057. ¡Venceremos!
