Statement By Florida Governor Charlie Crist Regarding Cuban Solidarity Day

May 21, 2008 -- “I am honored to join local, state and national leaders, as well as members of the Cuban community in Florida and throughout the nation, as they stand in solidarity with those unjustly imprisoned on the island of Cuba.

“For nearly half a century, the government of Cuba has denied its people access to the most fundamental, God-given liberties, blatantly ignored human rights violations and repressed opposition voices.

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A prisoner at the Bush administration's Guantanamo Bay, Cuba detention facility: Photo by Habacuc (CC)

"I firmly believe that freedom cannot prosper and individual potential cannot be realized without a guarantee of personal rights and freedoms. It is the cornerstone to any successful democracy and the source from which freedom continually renews its strength.

“Today, Americans and Floridians remain united in support of all Cubans laboring under that brutal dictatorship to bring about meaningful political and economic change. Your cause is just and our prayers are with you that you succeed in your efforts.”

Source: Florida Governor

Editor's note: Interestingly, Florida Governor Crist failed to mention the flagrant human rights violations and illegal imprisonment practiced by the Bush Administration at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba