Throughout June and July, the Connolly Youth Movement has been busy gathering supplies and raising funds for Cuba.
Due to the crises caused by the 65 year imperialist blockade on Cuba, exacerbated by recent sanctions, Cuba’s pharmaceutical industry is struggling to import raw materials needed for crucial medications. Basic supplies for hospitals, such as sutures, gauze, and needles, are now also increasingly difficult to import. Such difficulties are the intended outcome of the US blockade and its attempts to undo the advances of the Cuban revolution.
The United Irishmen once declared that “if we be asked what the French Revolution is to us, we answer, much”. For us in the CYM, we can state proudly that the Cuban Revolution means much to us. The social transformation of Cuban society and their revolutionary advancements in healthcare, education, and its internationalist efforts are a deep inspiration to us. The contribution of the youth of Cuba to their revolution and in defending its gains are a testament to the role of young people in revolutionary change.
Across Ireland, our branches are doing their bit to combat the effects of the imperialist blockade by raising funds and medical supplies to send a shipment directly to Cuba. In Belfast, Cork, Derry, Dublin, and Wexford we have held collection stalls to gather baby food, period products, and other basics which are in high-demand in the hospitals of Cuba. In Belfast, members and supporters walked a symbolic 26.7 kilometres along the Lagan to gather sponsors. In Wexford on 26th July, we will be walking the historic 1798 trail of the Three Rocks – linking the struggle of both Irish and Cuban rebels.
On the 26th July, we will be celebrating the 72nd anniversary of the beginning of the Cuban Revolution. In Belfast we will be screening “Memories of Underdevelopment” at 14:00 in Conway Mill, followed by a social evening at 18:30. In Dublin, we will be hosting a fundraiser pub quiz in Peadar Browns at 19:00. In Cork we will also be holding a demonstration on Grand Parade at 14:00 followed by a quiz in the Trade Union Centre on North Main Street. If you want to get involved, get in touch with your local branch!
Our efforts are only part of the global response to Cuba’s request for practical solidarity, but every box of baby formula, every bandage, and every butterfly needle is vital in the defence of Cuba’s healthcare system. As young Irish communists, we recognise that our struggle for liberation is not only to be waged in Ireland, but on an international scale.
We thank everyone who has taken part in our events or donated, and encourage you to get involved in your local branch’s solidarity work! If you are able to arrange wholesale purchases or are able to donate supplies, please get in touch!
Viva Cuba Libre!