I recently traveled to Cuba with Pastors for Peace to challenge the US blockade (and other imperialistic practices) of Cuba and continue a tradition of friendship and solidarity.
Last night we gathered at a neighbor's house and spoke about Cuba, and the continuing struggle through which the people protect the environment of their island and care for the people relates to issues we face here in the South Bronx. There are many examples in Cuba of how the land is protected from over-development or misuse in a way that respects and honors what nature has to tell us about life and love, and in a way that recognizes that we need to access the earth and the water as a fundamental part of being human. In contrast, the people of the South Bronx face and uphill battle to defend or reclaim access to land, air and water from the effects of industry, highways, and corporate interests that gridlock our neighborhoods and block our access to natural spaces and waterways. Neighboring communities in Hunt's Point have begun, over the past few years, to see successes in access to the rivers that serve as models of hope and examples for the rest of us, but it is not without struggle. And much of the struggle still lies ahead.
There are amazing, resilient youths, families, workers and activists in this neighborhood with legacies of community care to learn and grow from. I am so grateful to be here.![]()
Last night we gathered at a neighbor's house and spoke about Cuba, and the continuing struggle through which the people protect the environment of their island and care for the people relates to issues we face here in the South Bronx. There are many examples in Cuba of how the land is protected from over-development or misuse in a way that respects and honors what nature has to tell us about life and love, and in a way that recognizes that we need to access the earth and the water as a fundamental part of being human. In contrast, the people of the South Bronx face and uphill battle to defend or reclaim access to land, air and water from the effects of industry, highways, and corporate interests that gridlock our neighborhoods and block our access to natural spaces and waterways. Neighboring communities in Hunt's Point have begun, over the past few years, to see successes in access to the rivers that serve as models of hope and examples for the rest of us, but it is not without struggle. And much of the struggle still lies ahead.
There are amazing, resilient youths, families, workers and activists in this neighborhood with legacies of community care to learn and grow from. I am so grateful to be here.
