Letter of the Day | Extend a hand to Cuba, a neighbour in need

THE EDITOR, Madam:

We do not need to remember the good we do for others, but we should never forget the good others have done for us.

That thought has been weighing heavily on my heart as I reflect on the unfolding crisis in our Caribbean neighbour, Cuba. Reports indicate that the nation is facing severe humanitarian challenges. Energy shortages have disrupted daily life, workers are unable to complete full work weeks, health services have been scaled down, and the wellbeing of many ordinary citizens is under threat.

At moments like these, we must ask ourselves, how should Jamaica respond to a people who, over the years, have contributed generously to our national development?

Our education and healthcare systems have been strengthened by Cuba’s partnership. Cuban doctors and nurses have served in our communities, including during the COVID-19 pandemic when Cuba sent a total of 140 medical professionals to assist us in our time or crisis. Many of our bright young Jamaicans have been trained in Cuba as doctors and engineers at a fraction of the economic cost elsewhere. These investments continue to bear fruit in our nation.

As we consider the present crisis, perhaps we should remove our political spectacles for a moment and see not ideology, but suffering people. Compassion must not be dampened by political alignment or fear of repercussions. We understand that Caribbean leaders must navigate complex global realities. Diplomacy is necessary. No one is calling for reckless speech or actions that would jeopardise our national interest.

But surely humanitarian support is not recklessness.

Even if formal trade is constrained, is there any moral prohibition against extending gifts of relief to a nation that once sent us healthcare workers in our hour of need? What would be the consequence of responding, within our limitations, with generosity to a neighbour who has walked with us in meaningful ways?

Our response need not be loud, confrontational, or politically charged. It can simply be humane. “Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people…” (Galatians 6:10).

We need not remember the good we do for others, but we should never forget the good they have done for us.

REV ROY NOTICE

A concerned neighbour