United Methodist Resolution #317. Call for Free Speech in Cuba

WHEREAS, the Scripture calls us to raise our voice for those who have no voice, judge with justice those who have no voice (Proverbs 31:8-9); and

WHEREAS, the right of free expression is one of the most basic rights recognized in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights; and

WHEREAS, over seventy-five (75) Cuban dissidents, among them independent journalists, economists, and human rights activists, were condemned to sentences up to twenty-eight (28) years in prison, for exercising their freedom of expression, and according to the Cuban government, because they were receiving compensations and expensed reimbursements by the U.S.;

Therefore, be it resolved, that the 2004 General Conference of The United Methodist Church supports the right of all people to express themselves freely, regardless of where they live, and

Be it further resolved, that The United Methodist Church, through the General Board of Church and Society, calls upon the Cuban government to review their sentences and consider their release from prison, seeking reconciliation and understanding among all people in Cuba.

ADOPTED 2004

See Social Principles, ¶ 165A and D.