True Independence For Cuba

Martinez Calls for Independence of Cuba on Nation's Anniversary

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Mel Martinez (R-FL) today spoke on the Senate Floor in recognition of the 107th anniversary of Cuba's independence from Spain. Martinez underscored the current continuing repression of basic human rights of the Cuban people and the ongoing struggle by peaceful activists to gain the country's freedom from a repressive a dictatorial regime.
 
Martinez said:
 
"For Americans, Independence Day is the day we celebrate our freedom and the ideals on which our nation was founded. For Cubans, who won their formal independence 107 years ago today, Independence Day serves as a reminder that there are those still struggling to exercise their fundamental rights, having spent the past 50 years under the repressive rule of a one-family regime.
 
"While I appreciate the President's willingness to address some of the challenges facing the Cuban people, I also ask that he consider implementing policies that will empower the Cuban people, not embolden the regime. Wholesale change in Cuba won't come from Washington. Change for Havana can only come from Havana."
 
May 20th, 1902 the Republic of Cuba was born when the country gained independence from Spain.