When it comes to Cuba, nothing is assumed. It can still be a sovereign square peg for certain American officials with allegiance issues. To wit: Tampa. Still.
Recently the Cuban ambassador to the U.S. issued an invitation to Tampa City Council to visit as a delegation. José Ramón Cabañas Rodríguez specifically mentioned issues of mutual interest, including drug interdiction, illegal immigration, marine biology and tourism.
It just makes sense. We’re neighbors with a lot in common–from heritage to trade to security. But this is Cuba, and this is Tampa. And what makes good sense, especially of the self-serving sort for Tampa, is still not a good enough rationale for all concerned principals.
So, some council members will be going–but they won’t actually represent the city, the one that is a historic soul mate of Havana. Just the council. Only the mayor can officially represent the city, and Bob Buckhorn, as we know, would sooner visit Trump Tower than Raúl’s realm. As long as the embargo remains, as long as human rights, however cherry-picked, remains an issue. Yada, yada. Otra vez, otra vez.
“It’s not about helping Cuba, it’s about helping us,” underscored City Council Chairwoman Yolie Capín.
Ay, Dios. Dick Greco, please call your old office.