UNISONActive is an unofficial blog produced by UNISON activists for UNISON activists. Bringing news, briefings and events from a progressive left perspective.

Sunday, 10 January 2010

Latin America/US relations - Obama fails to meet expectations‏

Just eight months ago, President Obama was calling Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva "my man" and suggesting that this Latin American country could become a leading U.S. partner in the region.
http://www.latimes.com/news/nation-and-world/la-fg-obama-latin3-2010jan03,0,2760671.story

Now as we approach the anniversary of his inauguration all hopes that he would bring fundamental changes to US relations with the continent have faded badly. His failure to oppose vigorously the illegal military coup in Honduras, adding provocative military bases in Colombia, not dealing with terrorism and the Miami Five honestly and his recent declaration as Cuba as one of the 14 terrorist states has done absolutely nothing to distance him from the failed policies of Bush.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/sarah-stephens/why-latin-america-is-disa_b_415341.html

Although he has restored some Cuban American travel to Cuba, granted visas to some artists, and restarted the migration talks, he is still in his heart the cold war warrior that every US president since Eisenhower has been. To date he has absolutely nothing to show for his promises and failed policies. Even Time magazine is asking why his substantial policy positions have proven to be remarkably similar to those of George W. Bush.
http://www.time.com/time/printout/0,8816,1950827,00.html

As UNISON activists we must not forget we still have an enormous amount to do in building solidarity with those fighting for a better world.