We are a safe destination, with sun, beach, and peace.
Arabel’s words are echoed by workers from the Hotel and Tourism Union in the province of Matanzas, who question the oil blockade against Cuba, which is currently impacting the functioning of this industry and job stability in a region where, during peak tourist season like the current one, some 16,000 men and women hold jobs.
Arabel López, head of security and protection at the Velasco-Louvre hotel complex in Matanzas, is certain that the guests from various countries who have stayed here will not believe this new fallacy from the United States government that Cuba poses an unusual threat to that northern country.
“We are not a threat to that nation, nor to any other. How can a country that defends peace, solidarity, and offers the world a safe destination of beaches, sun, and culture be labeled in this way?” he asks.
“Here we know all too well the damage the blockade inflicts on tourism, the terrorist acts in hotels, and the schemes concocted there to deprive us of visitors and foreign currency. Who are they trying to fool when everyone knows that the victim is our beloved island?” he stated. He maintains that Cuba is being attacked by Yankee imperialism from every angle.
“Now it’s an unconventional war.” In the case of tourism, it’s campaign after campaign to prevent the sector’s recovery and the arrival of more customers. Right now, there’s a complicated situation regarding visitor flows, following the imposition of the oil embargo by the US.
Anyone familiar with this land, she believes, could refute that American rhetoric of threat. “Year after year at the UN, Cuba receives the support of many countries, a clear sign of who they are and who we are.”
Arabel believes the goal remains to suffocate the Revolution, drive the people to despair, and provoke a social explosion.
“We will continue seeking alternatives. We will not be intimidated. We are here, ready for the permanent defense of the homeland.”
Arabel’s words are echoed by workers from the Hotel and Tourism Workers Union in Matanzas province, who question the oil blockade against Cuba, which is currently impacting the functioning of this industry and job stability in a region where, during peak tourist season like the current one, some 16,000 men and women hold jobs.
Photo by the author
Written by Eva Luna Acosta
