Cuban Studies 19

Essays in volume 19 approach the provocative issues of religion, freedom of literary expression, and women's health care. The Catholic church in Cuba today is discussed in terms of its historic role, the current detente in its relations with the government, and the influence of national and international pressures. Protestantism in Cuba is represented by the experience of the Baptist church since Independence. The claim that official censorship toward Cuban artists and intellectuals has been relaxed is rebutted by charges that the situation has grown worse and that the mediocrity rules. U.S. opposition to the Cuban Revolution is interpreted as consistent with a century of North American involvement in Cuban affairs rather than a concern for U.S. national security. Finally, a discussion of health education for women argues that while public health has been greatly improved in Cuba, many myths about women and health remain and continue to shape gender attitudes.