Dorit DaCosta of the St. Ann Solidarity Group, which sympathises with the Cuban cause, chats with Guillermo Hernandez, first secretary in the Cuban embassy, at last Saturday's event.

There was much whooping and hollering at the Cuban embassy on Saturday as it celebrated the 49th anniversary of the Cuban Revolution.

Cuban Ambassador Gisela Garcia lauded the fruits of the revolution, especially education.

"The total coverage of schooling in basic education, the eradication of illiteracy and growth of the budget allocated to education are enough to be proud of the work of the revolution," she said.

The Cubans were joined in celebration by members of the various Solidarity Groups in Jamaica which are supportive of Cuba's policies. The efforts of the 'Jamaica Free The 5 Committee' were also recognised. The committee is helping to lobby for the release of Cuban nationals jailed in the United States. Shirts emblazoned with their faces and that of legendary rebel leader Ché Guevara could be seen all around. Cuban teachers, doctors, nurses and student volunteers were also among the gathering.

Worthwhile

Members of the Westmoreland Solidarity Group, (from left) Matias Brown, Yvonne Baker, Norma Fenton and Capel Findlaytor came to celebrate the anniversary of the Cuban Revolution last Saturday at the Cuban embassy in St. Andrew. Photos by Ian Allen/Staff Photographer

For Matias Brown, member of the Westmoreland Solidarity Group (one of the first), the celebration was worthwhile because so many persons from the parish had benefited from working or studying in the country.

"We realised that a lot of what we're told is propaganda and we must let the people know the truth about Cuba, especially the self-reliant nature of the people," he said. The day was also used to celebrate the birthday of educator and hero José Marti.

After the speeches and chants, guests indulged in a little dancing and some Cuban cuisine, all keeping the revolution in mind.

As part of the revolution's anniversary, the Cubans again lobbied for the release of five Cuban men in the United States who were arrested a decade ago on conspiracy charges. The Cubans have always maintained the innocence of the men.