Fidel Castro

I strongly disagree with your editorial of Oct. 5 calling for an open dialogue with Castro’s Cuba. The premise that the U.S. stands alone in the world against Cuba does not matter when a country stands against oppression and dictatorship; if Congress approves the Burton-Helms bill, that courageous step by our Congress will send a clear message to Fidel Castro, that if he continues to oppress the Cuban people, there is at least one country in the world with enough guts, clout and democratic traditions that will not stand for it.

Castro has chosen not to have a peaceful transition in Cuba by his own policies, and to question how much influence Washington will have in Cuba after Castro is gone is just plain absurdity, taking into consideration both countries’ history and proximity. The time has come to take a dignified step for human rights and freedom in Cuba, once and for all.

PAUL CEPERO, Newhall

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I am Cuban American. Here, as well as the people in Cuba, we support the Burton-Helms bill. We could not care less about your leftist editorials, we vote!

MARIO ABELLEIRA, North Hollywood