On the recordMay 21, 2012
Madam President, today I wish to commemorate the 110th anniversary of Cuba's independence. On May 20, 1902, after a series of rebellions against foreign rule, Cuba finally gained its freedom from the Spanish empire. I am honored to join with Cubans around the world in commemorating this day. At the same time, we must remember that the island nation still remains under the tyranny of an authoritarian regime. We can never forget that the Castro regime continues to jail its political opponents, and it still holds an American hostage. Once again, I rise today to urge the Cuban regime in the strongest possible terms to immediately and unconditionally release Mr. Alan Gross. Today, we reaffirm our solidarity with the people of Cuba. Now more than ever, the United States must continue policies that promote respect for the fundamental principles of political freedom, democracy, and human rights, in a manner consistent with the aspirations of the people of Cuba. ____________________
