embassy events

"Havana Spring: When Will Democracy Take Root in Cuba?" A Panel Discussion and Movie Screening

Democracy in Cuba

The American Information Center invites you to a panel discussion on democratic transition in Cuba. The event will take place at the Woodrow Wilson Center (Tržiště 13, approx. 50m below the Embassy) on Monday, April 10, 2006 at 3:30-5:00 P.M. A reception will follow the discussion.

The event will begin with the screening of a 30-minute documentary called "Kubánské jaro" ("Cuban Spring"). 
The film will be followed by a lively panel discussion on Czech, EU and U.S. policy on Cuba, humanitarian assistance, and democracy promotion. Panelists include Caleb McCarry (Cuba Transition Coordinator, U.S. Department of State), Jakub Skalník (Director of the Americas Department, Czech Ministry of Foreign Affairs) and Igor Blaževi�? (Director of Human Rights, People In Need Foundation).

We warmly welcome those with professional or scholarly interest in Cuba to attend and participate in the discussion.

The discussion will be held in English and Czech (simultaneous translation provided). Due to limited space, please RSVP at 257 530 640 or aic@usembassy.cz 
We look forward to seeing you there!

related links:

Department of State

Americas Department (Czech Ministry of Foreign Affairs)

Člověk v tísni

documentary:
Kubánské jaro
(Pablo Rodríguez, Carlos Gonzáles / ČR, Rakousko / 2003 / 28 min.)
A look at life in Cuba behind the veil of the political propaganda of Fidel Castro´s regime. The main hero of the Cuban Spring is the leading figure of the opposition, Oswaldo Payá Sardiňas, who describes the efforts of the dissidents for non-violent transformation on the island of freedom. They continue their efforts despite the new wave of repression carried out by the regime in March 2003, in which over 70 independent journalists and members of the opposition were imprisoned for up to 28 years. The Cuban Spring describes not only the prevailing fear in Cuba, but also the hopes of average Cubans yearning for change, just like the members of the constantly growing opposition, who believe that one day their efforts will bear fruit.