Cuba: What I Saw. What I Didn’t See.

Back view of a statue, adult and child.

Cuba is labelled by the U.S. as a state sponsor of terrorism, and has endured a crippling blockade for over 60 years. This is what I saw during my visit. And what I didn’t see.

Turquoise house with mural in tropical setting.

Although it’s clearly a poor country, I didn’t see a single homeless person or beggar.

Bronze couple sculpture in outdoor plaza setting.

I saw beautiful sculptures that capture small human moments. The streets were not littered with advertising billboards.

People marching with Cuban flags and banner.

I joined a rally for May Day in Vinales, where the whole community turned out. No police, no guns on display. No one was arrested, or killed.

Group of students in uniforms gathered outside.

I witnessed a country with different priorities to us. Education is free, from preschool to university. Healthcare too is free. Not just for the wealthy.

Two elderly men talking on rocking chairs.

I watched people talking and doing business together, negotiating and sharing the profits. I didn’t see a single security guard protecting the haves from the have nots. No need.

Man playing guitar on a rock outdoors.

Today I look around and see capitalist countries imploding everywhere. I hope that Cuba can manage to survive.