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A diverse coalition of elected officials, labor leaders, and solidarity organizations from across the United States has issued a unified call for President Biden to remove Cuba from the State Sponsors of Terrorism (SSOT) list and ease sanctions that exacerbate the island nation’s humanitarian crisis. The letter, signed by over 50 elected officials—collectively representing millions of Americans—alongside major labor organizations, urges the administration to reverse Trump-era policies and provide immediate humanitarian relief.
“The embargo and SSOT designation are relics of a failed foreign policy,” said Vermont State Senator Tanya Vyhovsky. “Sending aid to Cuba is not just an act of goodwill—it’s a moral imperative. This is an opportunity for the U.S. to demonstrate leadership and compassion.”
The coalition highlights the severe consequences of these restrictions, which have cut Cuba off from vital financial resources while deepening economic and humanitarian crises. These challenges have been further compounded by recent natural disasters, including hurricanes and earthquakes, leaving Cubans in urgent need of food, medicine, and medical supplies.
“American workers stand with the Cuban people in their fight for basic human needs,” said Taylor Walker, M.D., President of the Committee of Interns & Residents, SEIU. “The policies of isolation and economic warfare harm working families on both sides of the Florida Straits.”
This call to action comes after the United Nations’ 32nd consecutive vote condemning the U.S. embargo on Cuba and a recent congressional letter to President Biden, led by U.S. Representatives Barbara Lee (CA-12), Jim McGovern (MA-2), Gregory Meeks (NY-5), and Joaquin Castro (TX-20). The letter similarly urges Biden to send humanitarian aid and remove Cuba from the State Sponsors of Terrorism list, highlighting both domestic and global consensus that these policies are outdated and inhumane. The coalition emphasizes that removing Cuba from the SSOT list and facilitating aid are crucial first steps toward justice, diplomacy, and cooperation.
“The embargo and SSOT designation are relics of a failed foreign policy,” said NYC Council Member Alexa Avilés. “It’s time to prioritize diplomacy and compassion over decades of hostility.”
“The time for bold action is now,” said Los Angeles City Council Member Hugo Soto-Martinez. “Removing Cuba from the SSOT list and lifting these sanctions is a step toward justice and mutual respect.”
International.dsausa.org
