Statement of the Jamaica-Cuba Friendship Association on the ocassion of the 26th of July

The Jamaica Cuba Friendship Association joins with the rest of progressive humanity in the commemoration of the 66th anniversary of the 26th of July Movement’s attack on the Moncada and Carlos Manuel de Cespedes garrisons in Cuba, an action that changed the course of history, especially for the down-trodden peoples of this world.

In the words of the historic leader of the revolution Fidel, who was the leader of the 26th of July Movement 66 years ago ‘within a few hours you may win or be defeated but in any event, listen carefully, companeros, in any event, the movement will triumph. If we win tomorrow, that to which Marti aspired will be done sooner. If the opposite occurs, the effort will serve as an example to the people of Cuba, to take up the banner and continue forward’.

The setback which the movement suffered in this initial encounter and the unspeakable barbaric terror and death which was unleashed on the captured combatants and its supporters by the despotic US-backed puppet and dictatorial regime of Fulgencio Batista, provided the spark which ignited the national movement that led to the triumph of the Cuban revolution 6 years later on January 1, 1959.

Our sister country’s practical example of triumph and struggle in showing us that ‘another and better world is indeed possible’ by its achievements in health, education and the general well-being of its people, in addition to extending its modest resources to the most needy in the world, is the main reason why the US empire and allies have done everything to turn-back this beacon of hope for those who strive to be masters of their own destinies.

We should all stand as oppressed peoples of this world to defend our sister country Cuba, against any and all  attempts to asphyxiate this best example for peace, sovereignty, independence and the biblical tenets of being your ‘brothers keeper’.

One love and one struggle.

Trevor G. Brown, President
26 July 2019