The Canadian Association of Solidarity with Cuba in Kinsgton City, province of Ontario, conducted a meeting on the occasion of the 24th Pastors for Peace Caravan.
The solidarity project organized by the IFCO/Pastors for Peace inter-religious group, which is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, began its tour July 8 by more than 50 U.S. cities, with events here and in Mexico City.
Rev. Luis Barrios, a member of the Caravan, attended as a special guest. He shared values and memories with friends, and members of solidarity groups with Cuba, residing in that city.
Father Barrios, a Puerto Rican-born resident in New York, stressed "the courage and passion for the Cubans to fight daily against imperialism, as well as for the whole movement of solidarity with Cuba beyond borders and within the U.S. territory."
He recalled the beginnings of the Pastors for Peace Caravan, and the repeated attempts by the U.S. government to prevent that aid and solidarity reach the Cuban people, especially in the 90's that suffered "the brutal economic effects of the strengthening of the blockade after the collapse of the Socialist Bloc," he said.
Mayor Mark Gerretsen, and member of the Parliament for Kingston and the Islands region, Ted Hsu, expressed the importance Canada has to maintain ties with Cuba.
Typical Cuban and Canadian dishes were tasted during the ceremony, and participants enjoyed the performances of musician from Santiago de Cuba, Mario Franco.
According to the note, an event to collect funds to support the passing of the Pastors for Peace Caravan, which will leave for Cuba soon with donations, love and solidarity, breaking again the barriers imposed by the U.S. blockade, will be held tomorrow in this capital.
The meeting was also attended by Councillor Jim Neil and officials from Cuba's embassy in Canada.
The caravan members will stay on the Caribbean island for two weeks as of July 18, but they will develop a number of activities in its route until July 17.