The National Conference for the Full Normalization of Relations between Cuba and the United States begins today two days of sessions with the participation of dozens of activists of solidarity with the island.
Speaking to Prensa Latina, Ike Nahem, one of the organizers of the forum, said that during the weekend there are discussions, workshops and mobilizations, focused on the goal of ending hostile actions by the US government, which hinder normal relations between the two countries.
'We have registered the presence of people from 24 US states and four Canadian provinces, convened for solidarity with Cuba and for the need to end the economic, commercial and financial sanctions and to obtain the return of the territory occupied by Guantánamo Naval Base and the cessation of regime change programs,' he said.
According to Nahem, from the national conference initiatives and proposals to promote normalization of relations will emerge, a scenario that is not possible with the hostility maintained by successive US administrations since the triumph of the Cuban Revolution in 1959.
'The re-establishment of diplomatic ties was a positive step, but it is not enough, and that is the reason why we are here,' he said.
According to the activist, another reason for the solidarity forum is to reach agreements on actions to dismantle the disinformation campaign against Cuba.
'These days we have heard a lot of the phrase 'fake news' (used by President Donald Trump to qualify many US media), but those two words fit what has been spreading on Cuba in the last 50 years,' he warned.
A solidarity rally will be held tonight at the Malcom X Center in Washington Heigths, Manhattan, one of the main activities of the conference that will end tomorrow.
Yesterday, the Permanent Mission of Cuba to the United Nations hosted a welcome evening for the participants in the New York forum.
In short, Cuban ambassador Anayansi Rodríguez branded the presence of activists from various parts and sectors of US society at the diplomatic headquarters as a huge privilege.
'We want to honor them and share with you, but above all, to thank them very heartily for that solid solidarity with the Cuban people,' she said.
Rodríguez said it generates satisfaction and commitment to know that the small rebel island continues to be a source of inspiration for many people.