Armando BetancourtOne of the frustrations that comes with blogging about Cuba's imprisoned journalists and other dissidents is not knowing for sure whether it makes a difference. Often, writing about these brave men and women is an act of faith.
So it was rejuvenating to read an open letter from Armando Betancourt, who on May 23 became the latest independent journalist to be arrested in Cuba — simply for doing his job.
"Since I have never before been incarcerated, I confess that I have experienced pain and delight simultaneously," Bettancourt wrote in the letter from jail, dated June 9. "Pain for having to submit to the injustice of my arbitrary detention and abominable and sly manipulation on the part of State Security. And joy, because at no moment have I felt alone. I do not feel important, I just feel protected by those who have raised their voices in condemnation of my arrest and have been heard throughout the world."
You are not alone, Mr. Betancourt. We share your pain and your joy. You are an inspiration, and you are a hero.
There are thousands of us around the world standing with you in your jail cell, doing whatever we know how to do to win freedom for you, and for all of Cuba.
Cuban Democracy Directorate has the whole letter.
To read more about Betancourt, see my previous post.
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