A lot is happening in Latin America. Venezuela remains in an uncertain period of transition. More reforms are being proposed in Mexico. And, the Vatican has its first Latin American Pope!! However, alongside these big headlines the region continues to undergo social transformations that are often more subtle but can be - over time - just as transformative. This week's blog focuses on these social issues, current and historic.
In Effort to Try Dictator, Guatemala Shows New Judicial Might
Question: To what extent does addressing historical wrongs in cases
such as Guatemala’s help solve today and tomorrow’s challenges?
A Transgender Elected Official Reflects an Evolving Cuba
In Brazil, a Mix of Racial Openness and Exclusion
Question: As evidenced by the article on Guatemala, inter-ethnic relations have often been a point of tension in many Latin American countries. The articles on Cuba and Brazil highlight how, despite changes in the treatment of different types of minorities, challenges remain. What factors will determine the breadth and depth of social change in the coming years?
Catholicism in Argentina: Move over
Question: will the choice of a Latin American Pope imply a larger influence for organized religion in the politics of Latin America?
Note: this week's articles and questions deal directly with issues of identity and related policies and views. These are important issues in Latin America and beyond but they also have the potential to lead to divide and provoke. Please remember that, while disagreement and debate are expected and encouraged, each blog participant is expected to avoid name-calling and other forms of unprofessional behavior.
Enjoy!!
Impunity is indeed a constant variable in authoritarian regimes. I believe it is of great importance that countries that have suffered decades of crimes against their people by their own governments are able to prosecute and punish their so-called leaders, and finally expose their real history. In addition, these processes set a precedent that allows other countries to proceed with their own prosecutions of abusive leaders, military excesses and crimes. As Ms. Paz y Paz states, it sends the message “that nobody is above the law.” It is clear that such opportunity is only possible when radical changes in governments occur, when there is independence of powers, respect for human rights, and a strong will to heal the country. There have been dictators whose actions have been denounced and sentenced such as Videla in Argentina. Nevertheless the largest majority has been accused but consequences have only been exile such as Stroessner from Paraguay who moved to Brazil; Perez Jimenez from Venezuela who died in Spain; and Pinochet from Chile who was charged with a long string of crimes while living in London but was never convicted, not even after returning to Chile. I think it is crucial for the citizens of a country to know, really know, what their leaders are or were to avoid idolizations and to learn, so mistakes are not repeated again and again.
ReplyDeleteI agree that it is important for a country that is moving forward to deal with past crimes and prosecute those responsible. While some people might view this as taking a step back or getting stuck in the past, I see this as closure for the victims and their families as well as the country. Understanding that what happened was not okay and knowing that the legal system will follow through with consequences does two things that help the country move forward. The first thing it does is that it helps prevent future regimes or crimes against human rights by signifying that, no matter how powerful someone is, they are not above the law and they will be punished for their actions. The second way that prosecuting people who committed past crimes helps the country progress is that it gives confidence to the people that their government is just and those who have been wronged or may be wronged in the future are not left helpless. When citizens know that they can trust their government to deal with the crimes of any person, even if they are powerful, they feel more security and they are more free to say what they think with out fear. Therefore, it is very important to deal with past crimes in order for a country to begin to or continue to move forward.
DeleteWhat factors will determine the breadth and depth of social change in the coming years?
ReplyDeleteIn response to this question, I think the first step in creating social change is allowing more freedom of expression. Like the article on Cuba mentioned, the internet can provide an open space for members and activists of the LGBT community to share their experiences and create discussion on around issues related to the LGBT community. Social media is increasingly being used by minority groups to connect people with similar experiences, to mobilize people to act in creating change and in raising awareness about these issues. Although many people in Latin American countries do not have access to the internet, I think social media can be used to organize grass roots campaigns that those who don't have internet access can participate in.
Second, I believe education is necessary in creating social change. If more people became informed on issues related to the LGBT community, such as what it means to be transgendered, they could form more educated opinions on these issues instead of relying on commonly-held stereotypes.
Third, I think the media should take an active role in portraying more positive images of minority groups. In regards to the article on Brazil, I think more accurate portrayals of blacks on television shows and in the media in general could help break commonly-held assumptions that all black Brazilians are maids or cooks. Again, I think this will require the Cuban government to allow more freedom of expression and a more free press.
I think that you made some very good points here. The media plays a huge role in social change, as shown in articles on Cuba and Brazil. If more LGTB, blacks, and other commonly discriminated members of society in the region are seen in the media holding higher positions of 'wealth, prestige and power', they will be more accepted in society and less discriminated against. In order for these people to gain a higher status in society, they will need to be more educated. Also, the more educated society is as a whole, the more they will know about the issues regarding these commonly segregated communities. Everyone is entitled to their own opinion, but I think that if these communities are seen more in the media as more positive figures, people will be more accepting of them and there will be less segregation and discrimination.
DeleteI find it interesting that in Cuba, where public media is 'controlled' by the government, a transgender person is an elected official. I guess I am curious as to how much the government controls public media and in particular these social media websites they mention in the article that connected members of the LGBT community. Anyone have any light on this?
DeleteAlso, how much of a role do you think cultural context plays in social change? especially when it comes to LGBT community?
I believe that everyone here has really good points about how to improve equality and promote social change in Latin America. I would like to make a point about education and social media type movements in lower social and economic classes. The general quality of life for most of Latin America is very low and there are millions of people who just want to survive. To them education is not important when they are struggling to sell anything just to pay for some food for their own families. I believe that when there are millions just getting by they turn to religion and the religious community for hope and support. With this in mind, perhaps it would be best to target social progress through the religious community. I believe that by doing so, many more people will get a stronger message about the importance of social equality. This is definitely the most difficult route considering the strong opinions the Catholic church has and the importance of the Pope in Latin America, but honestly I do not think that it could be done very effectively in other ways.
DeleteI know for a fact that the upper classes of Latin American society do not take religion as seriously as the lower classes and those people are the ones looking on the internet, going to school, and trying to make the world a better place for their fellow Latin Americans. To them all of these points about social media and education are beneficial, but there is still a huge population that is being ignored here. Nevertheless, I do agree that education is extremely important! But to get everyone who needs education in a class room is still a huge problem in the face of extreme social and economic inequality.
I agree it is very important to keep in mind that the lifestyle of people in lower social and economic classes. These people have no other choice than to disregard any sort of education because they have to spend their time working hard and scraping however they can. Therefore, these people don't have the option to go out and be viewed by the media as "higher position of wealth, prestige and power." The people that need to change are those who hold these "higher" positions to learn to support/respect the LGBT, blacks and people of lower economic and social status rather than discriminate against them.
DeleteRegardless, a great example of change is Jose Hernandez, the first transgender elected official in Cuba shows that "Cubans can overcome their prejudices when it comes to voting for someone". The internet's use of social media really helped make this possible and this sort of example will hopefully help continue to push social change in a positive direction in years to come.
I fully expect the election of an Argentine Pope to have significant ramifications in terms of the Church's political influence in the region. Though the power of the Church has waned in recent years (compared to historical levels), the fact remains that an incredibly high percentage of the population in Latin America identifies as Catholic - even overwhelming majorities in some countries. Consequently, the Church has the potential ability to influence the opinions of a great number of individuals and, more importantly, a great number of voters. As the Economist article demonstrates, the new Pope, former Cardinal Bergoglio, has shown that he is more than willing to challenge governments on a wide range of issues and, in light of his ascendency and newfound access to the papal "Bully Pulpit," we can only surmise that he will continue to do so and with a greater level of public support. After all, as the Economist article concludes, "You can't question the authority of the pope."
ReplyDeleteIt will be interesting to see what the Pope's response will be to the Falklands Islands dispute. The link I posted at the bottom of the page details the aftermath of a lunch with Pope Francis and Cristina Fernandez. A main tenant o the talk was to mediate relations between the Argentine and UK government about the island's proper sovereignty. While I personally do not think Francis will have much of a sway in domestic or international politics, he has the capability to manipulate a large Latin American voter block. I agree with you in that the papacy will challenge political issues. However, in the case of the UK, the country has made it clear that the catholic church has no place in territorial disputes.
Deletehttp://www.usatoday.com/story/news/world/2013/03/18/pope-falkland-islands/1997421/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+usatoday-NewsTopStories+%28News+-+Top+Stories%29
As Pope Francis I’s position as pope removes him some degree from direct advocacy concerning the particular government of Argentina, it is likely he will take action in formally addressing the policies of President Fernandez de Kirchner. However, this does not discredit his impact on the Argentine political sphere at large. While Kirchner may not receive personally addressed letters from the former Archbishop of Buenos Aires, her political action may be influenced by the cultural shifts instigated by the election of a Latin American Pope. The pope’s close ties to Latin America may potentially spark a simultaneous influx in both nationalism and Catholicism (and therefore may revitalize a notion that the Argentine identity is primarily a Catholic one). As 77% of Argentine people associate themselves with the Catholic Church, this shift in culture would significantly influence political policy in Argentina. Thus, while Pope Francis’s influence may not be “de-jure”, he could potentially have significant “aposteriori” impact on Latin American Politics.
ReplyDeleteCardinal Bergoglio’s election as the new pope has created different opinions about the implications for Argentina’s future. Some firmly believe the advanced rank of who is now referred to as Pope Francis will put political pressure on Argentina, more specifically President Kirchner, to refrain from adopting more progressive laws. The support that he receives from the Argentine people may pressure political conformity to the doctrinal conservatism that Pope Francis has so staunchly supported while in his position of archbishop of Buenos Aires. This includes opposition to the legalization of gay marriage, more liberal theology, and abortion, just to name a few examples. The idea that Argentina’s political culture could change because of the election is certainly not without merit, particularly considering the fact that the vast majority of Argentina is Catholic, despite the country being more “socially liberal and less pious than many of its Latin American peers.” However, while Catholicism is widespread within the country, it is most likely that the significance of Cardinal Bergoglio’s election will not directly lead to more organized religion because of his withdrawal from active involvement in the country’s affairs.
ReplyDeleteThe assumption that those pushing for more organized religion could affect Argentina’s political atmosphere is not inevitable. Nor is it imminent. Pope Francis has said himself that he plans to focus on the Vatican, as that is now his responsibility. Granted, he will surely still be involved in Argentina’s affairs, but far less directly. It would be a surprising to see Pope Francis’ involvement in any future Argentinian politics except for the occasional comment or condemnation. The pope will instead be active in the Vatican church, bank, and bureaucracy. His responsibilities lie in Rome. As far as the possible increase in organized religion, it could very well be an opportunity for citizens to implement their convictions into political legislation through gathering support from others who also firmly support the Pope. But I would not expect a mass movement to ensue simply because the of Pope Francis’ election, unless the people were previously unwavering in their faith. There may be a shift seen in the amount of organized religion, but not enough to drastically affect political outcomes that, before the election, a large percentage of Argentinians supported.
While I am not one to say that more structured religion could arise in the near future, I do think it is more likely that Argentina will continue pushing ahead as it has been, in its support for gay marriage and the like. Unless Pope Francis continues his direct involvement in Argentina in the coming years in influencing the country’s political culture, Argentina may continue to progress.
With the election of the new Pope I feel this added power to the region is great for the country of Argentina. As stated in the article; “Cristina is used to being the only power” I feel that the having the new Pope in power could work as a check and balances system in a country like Argentina. Although there are negatives that come from both extremes, I feel it is never good to give one person too much power. It will be very interesting to see how the Popes influence will effect progressive changes in the region and because the Pope is from Argentina will this attract new followers in Latin America within the up and coming generations.
DeleteQuestion: As evidenced by the article on Guatemala, inter-ethnic relations have often been a point of tension in many Latin American countries. The articles on Cuba and Brazil highlight how, despite changes in the treatment of different types of minorities, challenges remain. What factors will determine the breadth and depth of social change in the coming years?
ReplyDeleteI believe that many factors are going to come into play in order to help countries like Cuba and Brazil to really embrace the social change that we see starting to take place. The article about the first transgender elected official in Cuba really is an achievement and shows that even countries that have a history of being strongly homophobic can create social change, which is an especially huge deal for a Latin American country, where homophobia is not uncommon and idea of being "macho” is prominent.
As the article further mentions, 'Times have changed' and it’s exactly that, times really have changed. I believe that to further broaden these changes, the Internet and social media are going to play a major role. The article mentions that the Internet has created "new connections among LGBT people." This is definitely a good sign for the future. However, I feel that many people, especially in Latin American regions where homophobia is common, and Catholicism is practiced by many, there needs to be more education about the LGBT community. I feel that many people do not understand the issues faced by the LGBT community, or what it even means to be "transgendered," so I think that through more social media and education about this community can really open peoples' minds and help to put the stereotypes aside.
I believe that if people were more educated about the LGBT community—learning what it means to be “LGBT,” and seeing that they are no different from anyone else, it will really have an impact on social change in Cuba, Brazil, and other Latin American countries. Also, starting social media groups using the Internet will help to also create an LGBT community where people can feel open to discuss their issues/struggles, as well as help others become more educated. Social media is an important factor in this day-and-age, and I feel like it is something that can be used effectively to help spread the word and open many more doors to social change in Latin America. Like quote by Ms. Castro states in the article, 'HER election proves that Cubans can overcome their prejudices when it comes to voting for someone.' She has opened the door to social change and hopefully this will spark social change in other Latin American countries as well. Cuba is turning over a new leaf of social change that I feel will only continue to grow and broaden through the use of education and social media.
I agree that social media will and is playing a large roll in joining groups such as these together into more of a community and that this is important for people with common beliefs/interests/lifestyles to join together, because the more people backing something the more likely it is too succeed. However I do think it is important to consider that many countries in Latin America are predominantly Catholic(or some other form of christianity) and that such a shift in acceptance of LBGT communities will be much more challenging to take place in such Latin American countries because of their religious beliefs.
ReplyDeleteI would also add that the appointment of a Latin American Pope may further these challenges for LBGT communities in Latin America because the Catholic Church may now focus more on Latin America due to the Popets home is there. Because of these challenges within the Church I dont believe that the appointment in Cuba will start a trend of LBGT acceptance in government any time soon. In a perfect world there would be separation of church and state and there would be less challenges towards these minority communities.
DeleteIt is nice to see the Guatemalan government taking a hard stand against the war criminals who did this and I believe it is a positive step forward for their justice system, however realistically it is most likely too little too late. Charging an 86 year old man in what will likely be a very lengthy trial just isn't going to have as much effect as it would have if it had been done in the decade or so following the civil war. I completely understand why it took this long, speaking out against the government like this and acquiring evidence would have been extremely difficult. It is sad that it took this long for the families to get justice for what the government did to their relatives. The Guatemalan civil war was one of the most ruthless and bloody moments in Latin American history and is sadly not as well known as it should be. This can most likely be attributed to the Cold War and the extremes the U.S. government was willing to take to avoid a communist government in the Latin America, even if the alternative was a brutal military government. While I hope that they will get a conviction, I wouldn't be surprised if this man died from old age before the trial finally finishes up, I expect this to take several years.
ReplyDeleteI am honestly quite surprised at the article about Cuba electing a transgender official. It really wasn't that long ago that something like that was completely unimaginable and that the gay community was heavily oppressed in Cuba. If something like this where to happen in the U.S. I'd be legitimately surprised which is why it's an even bigger surprise for this to happen in Cuba.
In Brazil I believe that slowly overtime there will be more equality among the races, unfortunately this isn't something that will happen over night. The U.S. went through something similar and in many ways still is going through a transition of racial equality. However, the longer people push for equal rights and the more interracial couples there are the more these walls will slowly come down. Unfortunately it is difficult for old prejudices to die over night and is something that takes several generations to get over.
For Argentina I actually find this extremely interesting. The Catholic Church has always had a large amount of power within Latin America and now that the new Pope is Argentinian I can't help but wonder what this will mean for Argentina. It is not a secret that the current President and the Pope are not allies. However it is worth noting that during the most recent meeting between the two the Pope kissed the President on the cheek. Whether his new position of power will force the two to reconcile (more from the President than the Pope) remains to be seen. The Catholic Church and the Pope are too powerful even for the President of a Latin American country to go against. The President is going to have no choice but to publicly be more friendly with him, despite what ever allegations have come up against him during the military government period. Perhaps having a Latin American Pople in the world will help bring this continent more into the center stage of the world. Sooner or later people are going to have to realize that Latin America is going to be taking a more active role in the world soon. Brazil is continuing to push for a seat on the UN Security Council and many Latin American countries are beginning to improve their economies. It would not surprise me if in the future Brazil became similar to China in terms of being an economic powerhouse.
Where I do agree that charging an 86 year old man with mass homicide will not allow him to see a just amount of punishment in the time he has left alive, I would like to point out that this trial can and will stand for much more than just a form of punishment. As stated in the reading, "...the trial was politically motivated and influenced by international public opinion." Finally, public opinion is actually becoming public, and can stand as a precedent for other cases like this, past, present and future. In the Inter-American Dialogue, it is pointed out that the topic of human rights is an area that Latin America and the Caribbean are slowly beginning to improve on. This case is first-hand proof that human rights are being recognized, which is a big step in progression towards an improved Latin America. Where victims were at first scared to speak out, they are now stepping forward. I believe that this will be memorable triumph for Guatemala's judicial system and for Guatemala as a country should the trial proceed as planned.
DeleteI found the article "In Effort to Try Dictator, Guatemala Shows New Judicial Might" to be really amazing - I would argue that it truly shows the progression this country has taken in terms of the increasing strength of rule of law. This story is not only relevant in respect to the rest of the region, but also on a global scale - "The proceedings will be one of the few times that any credible national court is trying a former leader on charges of genocide." This truly is an amazing feat. However, I'm weary to say that this one case will help to address current and future problems. The reality is that the sitting attorney general, Claudia Paz y Paz, has played a large role in bringing this former dictator and his military to justice. While she may do great things in her four year term, the reality is that her influence cannot last forever. Who knows who will replace her. Of course, one can only hope that she leaves a legacy of strong rule of law for years to come in Guatemala, but the reality is that it is simply too early to tell what affects this one case will have on current and future problems. However this is certainly not to discount the great work of bringing these men to justice for their crimes against humanity.
ReplyDeleteI am so happy about the progress in Cuba. I think that the more they progress in social movements like this, the more progressive it will become. Although there is still homophobia, I am thrilled to see that the new generation of Cuban's are taking a stance for what they believe in. As far as Brazil and race distribution is concerned, it honestly shocks me that that many pure white European's are still inhabiting Brazil. I can't believe that it has taken this long for the country to surpass this demographic.
ReplyDeleteAll of these articles, really, were very eye opening and a little shocking. For example, how has it taken the Guatemalan government so extraordinarily long to press charges against a former dictator?! That blows my mind!
In addition to educating the public and all factions within a country as has been stated by previous bloggers, and is in my opinion a very important factor in determining the depth of social change in the coming years. I believe that it is in the hands of the government, institutions and people that hold positions of power as to how much social change can actually be transformed. In my opinion it is hopeless to believe that miracle success stories such as the one told in the cuba article can arise anywhere out of thin air. "Minority" groups are almost always at a disadvantage from the time that they are born in comparison to the straight white human being, whether it is financially, geographically or hierarchically. Thus the country as a whole has to level the playing field by providing services that improve the chances that these individuals as a group can obtain a level of higher status; by way of laws, subsidizing education, offering better resources etc...
ReplyDeleteQuestion: What factors will determine the breadth and depth of social change in the coming years?
ReplyDeleteFirst and foremost, reading these articles and seeing that social change is in full motion throughout Latin America,to me was very refreshing. Although I do believe that the social changes in Cuba is much more revolutionary than the social changes occurring in Brazil, the fact that people are attempting to focus on a persons' character rather than their appearance shows maturity seldom seen in the issues of race and sexual orientation.
As for Brazil's case, factors that will determine the breadth and depth of change in racial discrimination, in my opinion, begins with reform in social media. Brazil cannot allow for magazines, television, newspapers, and other types of social media to be dominated by white faces. People of color can't constantly feel that they are inferior to those of lighter skin color or else they will genuinely begin to believe it, if they already don't. Social media has to stop hiding those with darker skin color and celebrate them and acknowledge them so as to reverse this negative image that is prevalent in Brazil still today. Another factor that I believe will influence the breadth and depth of social change in Brazil is the growth of Brazil as an economic power in the future. I believe that if Brazil continues to grow and become a world power, the maturity and social change needed to accompany that will follow.
As for Cuba's case, factors that will influence the breadth and depth of social change throughout the country is the Cuban government's willingness to take this acceptance of gays, bisexuals, lesbians, and transgenders and make it law and truly allow for these individuals to feel accepted and normal. If the government hesitates to take these next steps, the social change won't be complete. Another factor, that I find quite interesting, is the role that the new Pope will play in Latin American politics and not only the Pope but what role religion will play in general, as the issue of sexual orientation has been extremely controversial in society and politics thus far. If religion returns to being a major force in politics in Latin America, this social change may be halted or at least challenged.
The progress and dedication of LGBT in the political realm of Cuba has significantly increased in the last couple of decades. Less than forty years ago, Castro was sending homosexuals and transgender citizens on boats to America since they were not wanted. A transgender filling in a political position is quite a phenomenal success for not only Cuba, but for all Latin American political systems. As discussed in the other article, only one black man is in the Brazilian Senate, exemplifying the prejudice acts that still prominently exist in their political system. Latin America has improved accepting races and different backgrounds of sexuality within the last decade or two, but there is still room for improvement.
ReplyDeleteQuestion: will the choice of a Latin American Pope imply a larger influence for organized religion in the politics of Latin America?
ReplyDeleteThere is little doubt that the election of an Argentinean pope will allow the church to carry more influence in the region, but the extent to how much influence remains dubious. According to Time, as the Archbishop of Buenos Aires, Bergogio had requested a meeting with Argentinean president Cristina Fernández 14 times since 2007, but was rejected each time. She would even make sure to leave Buenos Aires on July 9, Argentina’s Independence Day, just to avoid running into Bergoglio at the ceremony. She has even gone so far as to say that she wished she could run for pope so she could run against him. Although Catholicism remains dominant in Argentina, Cristina Fernández has pushed for more liberal policies such as the legalization of gay marriage in 2010, which Bergoglio fully rejects. Bergogio is also no stranger to scandal, he was alleged to have ties to the kidnapping of two priests during Argentina’s Dirty War. He was also seen as being soft towards the Argentinean dictator Jorge Rafael Videla. Although he was never proven to have involvement in the kidnappings and he has said that he only worked with the dictator to save lives, some might still view the new pope in a critical light. However, Latin America has the world’s largest Catholic population with Brazil and Mexico being the largest. In the new Pope’s first address he made it clear that addressing the issue of poverty is one of his top goals, continuing the work he has done before taking the papacy. As Mexico suffers from a poverty rate of over 40 percent, such attention from the church might prove to be beneficial. Another interesting political play might come from the Pope’s influence in the Falkland islands dispute. The Pope has said that he supports Argentinean control over the islands. I, however do not expect to see a large influence in the policies of Latin America from the Pope. The Pope has made it clear that although he has a great interest in Latin America, his primary focus will be contained within the Vatican. I also don’t see the pope being able to slow down the social change that he is against in Latin America. Already gay couples are allowed to adopt in Brazil, Colombia ruled that gay couples must have the same rights as everyone else, and the list goes on.
I’m impressed by the evolution of Cuban society regarding LGBT issues since the Castro regime took power in 1976. I have always associated Cuba with its discriminatory treatment of gay citizens, and in particular the expulsion of LGBT Cubans as ‘undesirables’ in the Mariel Boatlift of 1980. Now in 2013, Cuba not only has a transgendered elected official but a high-powered LGBT advocate within the Castro regime and family. Cuba is becoming a world leader in the advancement of equality while leadership in other countries, such as the United States, have been slower to advocate for LGBT equality.
ReplyDeleteStill, it is interesting that Cuba has evolved so quickly regarding issues of culture and equality, yet opposing political ideologies are still harshly restricted under the Castro regime. This must be such a strange dichotomy in Cuban culture—that ideas of identity and inclusion are changing, yet citizens are still prohibited their ideological freedom. In the long run, Cuba’s cultural advancements will mean little in a political system with no plurality or diversity of representation. Very little change can actually be implemented, and groups such as LGBT citizens will not be properly represented.
Comparing the two NYTimes articles concerning Brazil's issues of racism and Cuba's progress in the LGBT community, I find it surprising that it is the country of Brazil struggling with citizen equality. As Sydney Morauer said above, Cuba's LGBT population was included in the Mariel Boatlift's removal of the 'undesirables,' though now Cuba is recognizing these citizens in government. I think it's an amazing breakthrough and more countries should recognize the LGBT community as people should be judged by their actions and character, not their sexual orientation.
DeleteBrazil has historically contained a variety of people with various ethnic identities and, as an up and coming economy, is often assumed to have little to no racial tension in the form of wages. However, if Brazil expects to grow as a nation, the country needs to develop a more impartial system that allows for society to move beyond the stereotypes. With this, I believe Brazil could learn from Cuba's recent election of a transgender official, and strive towards a more equal and unbiased society.
One of the discussions we had in class was the softening of the relationship between the United States and Cuba under the Obama administration until 2011 when a United States citizen, Alan Gross, who according to the Council on Foreign Relations, was convicted of “attempting to destabilize the Cuban regime through a U.S. sponsored program” and was sentenced to 15 years in a Cuban prison. That might have stopped the progress that had been made between the two countries but it did not reverse the gains that had been made. Progress that was made includes President Raul Castro lifting the travel ban for Cuban citizens and President Obama allowing Cuban families living in the United States to once again send remittances to non-family members in Cuba. Again, the Council on Foreign Relations state that one of the major obstacles between normalization of relations is abuses to human rights.
ReplyDeleteThe article posted this week titled, A Transgender Elected Official Reflects an Evolving Cuba, goes a long way to show that human rights in Cuba are advancing quickly. Although I could not find an article that predicted U.S.-Cuban relations to do anything but remain cold and virtually non-existent, the fact that the Cuban government has accepted Ms. Hernandez as a legitimate political figure, even if it is only on a local stage, shows that Cuba is making a push for equality. Perhaps best said by Alberto Hernandez, a Cuban farmer quoted in this article, is his comment “times have changed, her sexuality is her business.” While part of the question posted for this article states that more work needs to be done for Cuba to improve their social challenges, change is happening. The challenges that remain in order to reach equality in Cuba are the same as they are in the United States, the prejudices from the citizens of each country.
In each country there is an obvious generation gap between those who agree with equality and those who do not. The woman used in the article as an example of the opposition to a transgendered politician is a sassy seventy two. Equally, in a recent poll conducted in the United States, the overall support for gay marriage is 53 percent while those aged thirty or younger show a whopping 81 percent favorability mark. I believe it is not a coincidence that equality started to transform itself after Raul Castro came to power when 55 percent of the population was thirty or under. I believe that equality will only take further steps forward as the younger generations political views are passed down. Whether it is in a communist country or a democratic one, it takes the will of the people to enact serious social reform. If Cuba continues to promote social equality, it will be a bold statement that they are on the same playing field as a country that uses democracy as a major reason that equality exists. If the Cuban progressive movement continues to progress at such a quick pace, they will soon pass the United States and the American people will call for their government to work with a country that has more equality than their own.
Hanson, Stephanie, and Brianna Lee, eds. “U.S.-Cuba Relations.” Council on Foreign Relations. N.p., 31 Jan 2013. Web. 21 Mar 2013. .
"Cuba." Atlapedia. Latimer Clarke Corporation. Web. 21 Mar 2013. .
It brings me great joy to read that the horrible military dictator Rios Montt might actually have to pay for all of his horrible actions. Not only does this bring a type of peace to the family and friends of the victims knowing that the man that killed their whole family isn’t walking the streets, but it also sets the stage for the future. Genocides should be a thing of the past we are too advanced today to stand for this type of evil and barbaric ways and no matter the reason genocides are never justified. I do feel that it is very important to look at the past and learn from the mistakes made to try to avoid the same mistake made in the future. With that being said it seems that people in different countries all over the world still find a way to justify mass killings. It makes you ask the question about how much learning about history actually helps to prevent these events from reoccurring. I like to believe that the most recent mass killings have been a result of either lack of education and or the fear factor about acting out against the one in power, in fear of being killed. If you look at a country like Germany where I feel proper education has been implemented, I like to believe that these people would never stand for another type of genocide that took place by their people. However, in countries where education hasn’t fully quite reached them or the governmental system doesn’t allow for far and free elections of a honest person, people end up being easily persuaded and controlled, because they have no other grounds to go off of. So, I do feel that looking at the past will protect us from the future and people should realize that education is the way to prevent things like this from happening again. For countries that haven’t been blessed with concrete education systems, it is the job of the surrounding countries and nations to come together to make sure these event will not be excepted, with no exceptions even if you are allies with that leader. Relating back to this article, I do feel that it is important to punish the leaders that allowed these event to happen, however it confusing me to think about whether it is write to punish the men that were just following orders, possibly they were scared that they would have been killed if they had stood out and said something. The reason I bring this up is because everyone likes to think that they would have been that one person, who did the right thing. When if fact looking at a study like the Milgram study (http://nature.berkeley.edu/ucce50/ag-labor/7article/article35.htm) shows that following these orders could just been the norm.
ReplyDeleteI feel that much of the same prejudices still taking place against people not following proper gender roles, stems from the same lack of education that allows genocides to take place. Looking at the Cuba article it shows that with proper education, and the rising of newly educated generations, the evil actions of the past are something that can be eliminated from a country through education of the people over time.
According to the Inter-American Dialogue, Latin America stands at the edge of a major transition point in which its current relationship with the United States will impact the regions economic and social performance in the future. (Remaking the Relationship: The United States and Latin America) Due to the experience that Latin America gained from overcoming the debt crisis of the 80’s-90’s, and its relative ease of dealing with the most recent debt crisis, Latin America now has a unique opportunity to teach something to the developed world. Politically, the region has done relatively well as compared to most of the developing world and with respect to its own history; yet, many limitations on civil and political freedoms still restrict a stronger democracy. (Freedom House) Latin America also remains one of the worst regions in government transparency and corruption worldwide. Hugo Chavez’s death last week demonstrates the significance of authoritarianism’s ever-present grasp on Latin America. Then again, it excels in areas of cultural refinement, racial diversity and progressive movements. Pope Francis I, an Argentine Jesuit priest, has changed the world as the first non-European pope and the most important Latin American Catholic ever. At the same time, former Guatemalan dictator, Efrain Rios Montt, stands trial as the first world leader to have formal charges brought against him. There is no question the prominence that Latin America will play in its century.
ReplyDeleteOver the past two weeks the three most important moments in Latin America have been the death of Venezuelan president Hugo Chavez, the election of Jorge María Bergoglio as an Argentine pope, and the trial of former Guatemalan dictator Efrain Rios Montt, and all will have significant impact on the course of Latin American history.
For the first time in world history a country (Guatemala) will bring a former head of state to trial of crimes against humanity committed during their governments. Efrain Rios Montt is certainly guilty of the atrocities that occurred regardless of his plea that he had little control of his armed forces. (Times, Malkin) Reminiscing the historic case, Attorney General Claudia Paz y Paz, told reporters, "[w]e cannot leave thousands of deaths unpunished. We must deliver justice to the victims." (Huff Post, McDonald) And it seems certain that justice will be served in this case. The only test left is whether he can be found guilty and to what extent the Guatemalan courts will enforce their ruling. Not just for Guatemala but also for all Latin America this case is a demonstration that the rule of law can prevail were it traditionally has failed. The solid base that this case lays will also become a precedent for future action.
Likewise, the death of Hugo Chavez and the subsequent democratic elections, are a time bomb that Venezuela will have to endure or face head on. As Hugo Chavez lies behind the glass window of his coffin and faithful Venezuelan walk by, the country that he has left behind also is behind a glass of uncertainty and the rest of the world is interested to see in. (El Universo, Chavez) Venezuelan acting President Nicolás Maduro has taking the powers of the president now has many people worried if he will relinquish power when elections come. More importantly, what will the United States do if he does not give up power?
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ReplyDeletePope Francis I has become the first American to be elected to the highest office of the Catholic church, whose Latin American population of nearly half a billion believers could be a strong integrating force. Some would say that his position makes him the most important Latin American in history but recent investigation also paint his hands red with allegations of “dirty war” involvement. (Times) Regardless of whether he is just another corrupt religious politician or if he will fulfill his promise to serve the poor and the underprivileged in the world is yet to be seen. (Times, Becker) Never the less, his assenting to the papal throne marks a significant social position for the region and will surely be a part of a new Latin America.
Culturally, Latin America has shown how progressive it can be. Raul Castro’s daughter, Mariela Castro Espín, heads the National Center for Sex Education (CENESEX), which continues to push the boundaries of gender equality and other social issues within Cuban society. In the most recent elections in Cuba, a transgendered candidate won public office. And although elections in Cuba’s one party ticket are not democratic it shows that the most authoritarian and traditional countries in the region can change. In the region in general, civil rights around race, gender and sexuality far outweigh the current efforts in the United States. But for some places in Latin America, race still dominates the social structure. From the present case in Guatemala or the racial tensions that are emerging in Brazil’s poorest favelas, race still engulfs all aspects of society.
Economically, over the last two decades Latin America has emerged from a debt crisis to become one of the most promising economic regions in the world. Brazil has showed such growth and promise that it has become the largest economy in the southern hemisphere and a major global trading nation. (Times, AP) Along with Russia, India, China and South Africa, Brazil has the potential to be one of the next top economies by the year 2050. Other trade agreements like, UNASUR (Union of South American Nations) and CELAC (Community of Latin America and Caribbean Nations), and The Bank of the South, demonstrate the efforts to declare independence from the developed world and to continue to grow economically. This in tandem with the regions rich natural resources and environmental respect will be the answer to many of its future problems.
Taken together all of these events have the hallmarks of a new era in Latin America and in the world. For the first time in 600 years, Latin America has the opportunity to set its own path. Socially, politically, and economically, independent of Spain or Europe and free from the cold war intervention of the north. Latin America is now very independent! The next century will truly be the Latin Century.
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Racism and homophobia are the next great social problems in Latin America. The historical inequalities of the past are in large part the focus of today, with many reforms aimed at improving poverty levels and implementing land reform. However, the rampant economic problems have created a larger social gap in many Latin American countries. This can be seen in its extreme in both Brazil and Cuba.
ReplyDeleteThe situations in Brazil and Cuba, it could be argued, are a product of their relatively late abolition of slavery. Lingering tensions are certainly more prevalent as they have had less time to assuage. However, especially in Brazil, Blacks have remained largely marginalized, comprising a substantial portion of the impoverished populations in the favelas. Brazil, in order to address its racial problem, resorted to an innovative concept of "racial democracy", which was intended to promote and celebrate diversity rather than scorn it, as the historical attitude had been. However, it had the opposite effect, serving instead to reinforce differences and promote tension.
Cuba, too, has to come to terms with some historical shortcomings. After the revolution, homophobia became rampant, with many in the LGBT community fleeing to Havana to escape torment. Attitudes are shifting slightly, with even Castro recognizing his failures with regards to LGBT rights. In Guatemala and many other countries, the indigenous have also suffered the colonial legacy.
Almost all of Latin America is afflicted with some sort of systemic prejudice. However, there have been some reasons for optimism. The article here shows that the LGBT has gained some power in Cuba, or are at least in the process of gaining that power. The elections of Lula and Rouseff have seen two previously marginalized demographics empowered. In addition, affirmative action programs for blacks in Brazil have significantly improved their access to more exclusive job markets. The lower classes are experiencing a poiltical revolution and are gaining a strong regional voice, These problems will be addressed in time. It just may take some time. We are certainly still working on it here.
Recently I watched a documentary called Waste Land, which profiles self-designated pickers of recyclable materials, known as “catadores”, who work in the world’s largest garbage dump Jardim Gramacho, located on the outskirts of Rio de Janeiro. Jardim Gramacho is perceived to be the end of the line, a place where all the waste and discarded materials from the Brazilian society was sent. These perceptions also applied to the people who worked in the landfill as well as those who lived in the surrounding favelas. Upon being introduced to the catadores it was very clear that the general perceptions of them were completely false, in fact many of them were extremely intelligent and radiated a great sense of pride for their occupation. The catadores explained the racism of exclusion in Brazilian society in which those who are educated truly believe that they are better than those who are not. Before being introduced to the catadores one is led to believe that they are all criminals or drug addicts when in reality they are very hardworking honest people who designed and created the existing recycling system in Rio with little help from the Brazilian Government. I think one of the most important factors in determining the depth of social change in Brazil in the coming years is trust. When there are higher levels of trust in a society firms are more likely to hire a more diverse group workers, banks will give out more loans, and there will be more cooperation between complete strangers. Once the catadores and the Brazilian elite can trust one another is the point at which we will see this racism of exclusion disappear.
ReplyDeleteI'm stoked about the new pope! Not surprisingly, more conservative catholics are not.
ReplyDeleteI think it's awesome that Nancy Pelosi and Joe Biden were allowed to take communion--regardless of how I feel about the politics of either one of them. I hope this is the path to a more socially liberal church.
I also heard a segment on NPR this morning about the backlash he's getting for being too economically liberal. The way I see it, though, his economic policies are based on more fundamental ideas about social liberalism.
Go Francis!! Now let's get everyone else on the bus (pun intended)!
In my opinion the prejudices against the LGBT community in Cuba as well as the discrimination of Afro- Brazilians will continue to exist. Even though their will be coined officials who will have a place in the authority of the country it wont last long and their will continue to be a bias even against those who are put in place. Because they are either descendants of indigenous people or slaves, or happen to have a different sexual preference their it is more probable they will continue to face more challenges and less opportunity to become as successful as the stereotypical norm. One successful person only reveals the possibilities, however the difficulties and opportunity will be all the same.
ReplyDeleteI think the steps taken regarding the case on Ríos Montt in Guatemala are positive for the country. While the trials that are supposed to be coming in the near future may be a little late, they should still be effective. The acts that this dictator carried out against citizens of the country were cruel and awful. There is evidence of these acts being published every day bringing the issue to the public eye and adding additional heavy grievances towards the former dictator. The killings haven't been a secret all this time, but just have been kept quiet. The move towards a more effective rule of law system will bring justice and order for the future of Guatemala. It will take years in my opinion for it to be effectively established and commonplace among the people. That being said, it is certainly on its way. The trials against the oppressive dictator, Ríos Montt, are a movement in the right direction and will play a large role in changing the face for a newly effective judicial system.
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