"This is Cuba"

The documentary that we have been watching, which shows the "real" Cuba, is simply unbelievable. The documentary truly shows the hardships and struggles that most Cubans experience, and it shows the harsh living conditions of Cuba. In the documentary, an American male journeys to Cuba and takes video accounts of what is actually occurring in Cuba at the time. This we learned was not only dangerous, but also against the law. Within the documentary, one can learn of the cutbacks put in place after the Communist reign in Cuba and the impacts on all the native people. Each Cuban family was given a ration book, which kept track of the supplies they received from the government. These supplies added up to basically nothing, and left the people of Cuba without supplies and necessities. Many Cubans resort to black markets or illegal means of buying and selling goods in order to obtain necessities and/or make money for a living. The signs that are mounted all through out Cuba stating "Socialism or Death" really shows the strength of Communism in Cuba. The video also displays the many different opinions of Cubans towards their leader. Some believe in Castro while others want him out of the government (although they cannot openly state this because it could lead to time in prison). The mass emigration of Cubans from Cuba when Castro "opened the gates" explains how many Cubans disliked their native land. This documentary has really opened my eyes and allowed me to further understand what is occurring outside of my community. The conditions are really inhumane and I feel as though we should do all that we can to help the people of Cuba and other regions which are experiencing similar conditions.