Summary
When Jews were being persecuted in Europe before the Second World War, Cuba was among the first countries in the Americas to take them in as refugees, and the Cuban Jewish community initially flourished. Numerous Yiddish newspapers were distributed and anti-Semitism during the war years seems to have been non-existent. But later, the Communist revolution led by Fidel Castro drove out 90% of Cuban Jewry.
The revolution was not directly anti-Semitic, but it frowned on religion in general, making life for practicing believers challenging. By 1989, what had once been a vibrant Jewish community had less than 800 practicing members.
Trip To Jewish Cuba points out just how much the Americans can learn from the Cubans they are ostensibly helping. Seeing the Cubans’ struggles makes their accomplishments seem that much more admirable, and causes the Americans to rethink their own sense of commitment. “The feeling inside the synagogue!” an American woman exclaims, noting, “These are people who are proud to be Jewish.” Unlike American Jews who can afford to take their faith for granted, Cuban Jews have to make a strong effort just to keep their tradition alive. Their enthusiasm to learn and pride in their accomplishments inspires their American visitors.
Read more about this topic: Trip To Jewish Cuba
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