AFT's letter to Fidel Castro

April 11, 2003
H.E. Fidel Castro Ruiz
President Republic of Cuba
Plaza de la Revolución
Havana, CUBA

Dear President Castro:

A few weeks ago, I wrote to you to strongly protest the deliberate violation of labor rights in Cuba. The continued harsh persecution of some 80 trade union leaders and human rights activists clearly demonstrates that your government is ignoring that protest and the many other appeals that you have received from around the world.

This letter is to condemn the recent arrest of Roberto Miranda, President of the Association of Independent Teachers and his union colleagues. Your government is well aware that there is absolutely no justification for Mr. Miranda's arrest, his trial and sentence to 20 years in prison. These actions clearly demonstrate the political repression and complete denial of basic human and trade union rights in Cuba.

The 1.3 million members of the American Federation of Teachers demand the immediate release of Roberto Miranda and the other trade union and human rights leaders who have been unjustly arrested, tried and sentenced. We are urging our trade union brothers and sisters throughout the world to join with us in condemning these outrageous attacks on freedom of association, freedom of assembly and freedom of expression.

Sincerely,

Sandra Feldman
President
American Federation of Teachers

cc: Education International
Public Services International
International Confederation of Free Trade Unions

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