Among the speakers, Bita Amani, an epidemiology professor who takes her students to Cuba every year to learn about the island’s medical system, stated that violence in the form of sanctions, blockades, or any type of economic restriction are tools used to try to undermine the right of peoples to self-determination.

  Cliff Smith, speaking on behalf of Roofers and Waterproofers Local 36, said that he “represents a thousand of the most dedicated construction workers in Southern California” and that they “fully stand in solidarity with the people of Cuba… it is time to put aside our differences. The Cuban struggle is our struggle.”

  While Rachel Bruhnke, a member of CodePink, spoke about the recent “Nuestra America” ​​convoy to Cuba, which she described as an “important, entirely legal journey that delivered medical aid,” she denounced the fact that the U.S. administration now wants to criminalize those who participated in this humanitarian effort.

  Anna Capati spoke on behalf of the National Lawyers Guild, explaining that “Cuba holds a very special place in our hearts and we are fighting against the blockade.”

  Baba Akili of Black Lives Matter-Grassroots spoke on behalf of a segment that has been at the forefront of support for Cuba: African Americans.

  Also, a demonstration was held at Miami International Airport in support of Cuban families and against the blockade.

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