Dealing With Cuba, Castro

A case for ignorance and superficiality should have been the title of Purcell’s column. Like so many of her ilk she refuses to understand the problems of our Latin American neighbors (or doesn’t want to), the major problem being the U.S. itself.

It is historically true that we cannot tolerate any country in the Western Hemisphere that is able to think independently from the pressures of Uncle Sam who, viewing himself as the benevolent protector, attempts to cram his own ideas and values down the throats of those unable to defend themselves against the crass tactics of big brother from the north. It should be understood that other nations have the right of self-determination.

Purcell’s article points out the problems of Cuba but conveniently overlooks the social progress made over the past years. Having visited this island country several years ago, I found the people and the country to be far ahead of the rest of Latin America in terms of social reform. New housing and residential areas were in evidence everywhere and health and education received top priority in a nation that had been impoverished under the brutal dictatorship of Fulgencio Batista to whom, incidentally, we gave our wholehearted support.

When Castro came to power, we lost an opportunity to enter into trade and diplomatic relations when we demanded, as a precondition of acceptance, that the policies of the Cuban government meet with our specifications, which of course was a demand that had no chance of success.

Such is the cavalier attitude of the U.S. which has so often alienated us from Latin America. Hopefully, we will be more understanding of Cuba with the new Administration and both countries can come to terms and settle their differences with dignity.

FRANK M. STRICKLIN

Chatsworth