Watson Coleman: “in recognition of Human Rights Day on December 10, I rise to pay tribute to some of the bravest human rights advocates…”

“in recognition of Human Rights Day on December 10, I rise to pay tribute to some of the bravest human rights advocates in this hemisphere Cubans who have dared to raise their voices to protest a regime they rightfully see as antidemocratic and harshly repressive. Cuba is the only country in the Western Hemisphere that has not held democratic elections in recent decades. Fidel Castro has served as dictator for over four decades, and his regime does not permit free speech or free enterprise. What is particularly reprehensible is the treatment Castro doles out to those who desire freedom on the island. This week, the EU will present its Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought to the Ladies in White, the mothers and wives of Cuban political prisoners who hold peaceful demonstrations each Sunday to protest the imprisonment of their husbands and sons, some for more than 20 years, for political reasons. I extend my congratulations to these worthy award recipients and to the Sakharov Prize selection committee for their continuing attention to Cuba. Three years ago, the same prize was awarded to Oswaldo Paya, organizer of the Varela Project, which seeks a referendum on open elections, freedom of speech, freedom for political prisoners, and free enterprise. Despite the imprisonment of more than 50 organizers and continuous government harassment, the Varela Project continues to gather more signatures.…”