Salsa for Cuba

Salsa for Cuba

By Lynda Hansen

BRISBANE — More than 120 supporters attended the Committee in Solidarity with Latin America and the Caribbean (CISLAC) annual fundraiser here on July 19, supported by the Australia Cuba Friendship Society (ACFS). The energetic crowd danced the night away to the unique Afro-Caribbean sounds of La Gran Salsa.

Slide projections of struggles in Guatemala and Mexico, presented by the Zocalo Fair Trade Shop, added a visual backdrop. CISLAC activist Roberto Jorquera told the crowd that international solidarity remains vital. Jorquera also spoke of the lasting legacy of Argentinean revolutionary Che Guevara.

Bill Dawson from ACFS spoke of the importance of the campaign to end the US economic blockade of Cuba. Dawson reminded the audience that ACFS is organising its next work brigade to Cuba in December.

All funds raised from the evening will fund CISLAC's aid project in Cuba, administered by the Federation of Cuban Women, to research and cultivate the rare briofrita plant. The ancient species, which has many medicinal properties, faces extinction. The project will eventually benefit more than 50,000 people.

CISLAC has also launched a campaign to demand an end to the torture of Mexican prisoners, and the immediate release of all political prisoners. CISLAC supports the land rights, education and free speech of indigenous Mexicans. To get involved in the Mexican human rights campaign, contact your local CISLAC committee (see pages 29-31).

From GLW issue 283