October 30, 2007
We can't do enough for this man
Dr. Oscar Elias Biscet
The Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation's highest civilian award, recognizes exceptional meritorious service. The Presidential Medal of Freedom, medal awarded annually by the President of the United States to individuals selected by him or recommended to him by the Distinguished Civilian Service Awards Board. Recipients of the medal are those who have made outstanding contributions to the security or national interest of the United States or to world peace, or those who have made a significant public or private accomplishment. Recipients have included educators, diplomats, authors, scientists, and business executives.
Can we ever forget this video made by Biscet's wife explaining the conditions under which he lives?
The mock-up of the cell was built on the grounds of the US Interests Section in Havana. Imagine having to live like that simply because you want freedom and democracy for your country.
Posted by Henry Louis Gomez at October 30, 2007 01:21 PM
Comments
From The Real Cuba (www.therealcuba.com):
In a phone conversation from Havana, Morejón[Oscar E. Biscet's wife] thanked Bush for the award and called it "a recognition of our political prisoners." "It is important that in this world someone remembers us," she said.
Posted by: Lori ![[TypeKey Profile Page]](http://www.babalublog.com/nav-commenters.gif)
at October 30, 2007 04:07 PM
Lori,
That is a very timely comment. I've seen posts on other blogs where the honor bestowed on Dr. Biscet is disparaged on the basis that it may cause Dr. Biscet to suffer greater harm at the hands of his jailers. While I can understand the concern, the reality is that Castro has never needed an excuse to torture, abuse and vex political prisoners.
Dr. Biscet's wife's sentiments are consistent with the thoughts expressed in the past by political prisoners from Cuba and other countries. What sustains them through their adversity is that knowledge that there are those who support them, admire them and keep them in the public eye.
One might ask why Paya is not subject to the same level of abuse as other less known dissidents. I think it is due to the recognition he has received over the years. The dictatorship does as it pleases, but it is sensitive to bad press.
Posted by: LittleGator at October 30, 2007 04:20 PM
me alegro bastante...Que viva Dr. Oscar Elias Biscet!
Posted by: Felix Ricardo at October 30, 2007 08:30 PM