His sister may have not gotten an audience at the White House, but Cuban human rights activist Jorge Luis García "Antúnez" said President Barack Obama's words of support for him and other recipients of the National Endowment for Democracy's Democracy Awards make a big difference for those fighting for Cuban liberty.
"It is positive because he is the president of the United States, and after only a few months in the White House, his tribute shows a serious commitment to the democratic forces in Cuba," Antúnez said.
Unfortunately, words alone don't always deliver the intended message, and I think Antúnez, who really didn't have a choice but to thank Obama for his graciousness, knows that.
Obama should of, and could of, done more to honor the Democracy Award nominees. After instituting policy changes, i.e. lifting family travel restrictions, and diplomatic initiatives, i.e. inviting Cuba back into the OAS, that raise questions from some about his commitment to a free Cuba, Obama would have made some serious strides if he had welcomed Antúnez's sister and other representatives to the White House.
Instead, Obama just provided more fodder for the doubters.
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