Cuba had a long history of segregation and racism before 1959. The revolutionary government ended the old system of segregation but racism remains a problem in Cuba. On this, the 50th anniversary of the Cuba Revolution, we look at how Cuba brought about equality for symphony musicians. We'll also look at Cuba's efforts to feed itself through the world's largest organic farming experiment. This program was written and produced by Reese Erlich. His recent book is Dateline Havana: The Real Story of U.S. Policy and the Future of Cuba.
Featuring:
Louis Aragu, son of the founder of The National Symphony Orchestra of Cuba; Yvonne Fernandez, The National Symphony Orchestra of Cuba bassoon player; Esteban Morales, University of Havana sociologist and professor; Dr. Devyn Spence, Cuban race relations author; Lester Benavides, violin and viola player; Eliades Ochoa, Buena Vista Social Club guitar player; "Rochy" Rosa Maria Amemeiro, singer, guitarist and composer; Bill Martinez, Cuban musicians' attorney; Lázaro Valdés, Bamboleo founder and leader; Humberto Hernandez, Havana fruit vendor; Raul Ruiz, Cuban Ministry of Agriculture official; Santiago Yanez, Agricultural Ministry official; Jose Casimiro, Cuban farmer; Fernando Funes, Government agronomist promoting organic techniques.