Cruising to Cuba

The potential benefits of a study-abroad program in Cuba are many. An unfortunate consequence of the United States’ embargo of Cuba is the restriction of the academic freedom of those interested in Cuba and U.S.-Cuba relations. The proposed Cuban task force would allow Princeton to stand together with several other academic institutions — including Harvard, Brown, UNC and Sarah Lawrence — to help overcome this limitation. While, Katz said, the task force is unlikely to directly focus on a contentious issue such as Cuban democratic transition, it would offer students significant exposure to Cuban government, politics and society.

Many Wilson School students focusing on the challenges facing Latin American countries will likely welcome the opportunity to study abroad in Cuba: The program would allow them to study in the unique political environment of the communist regime. Moreover, it would broaden students’ academic horizons and give them an experience that few other colleges offer.

Cuba’s political climate, while providing these distinct advantages, also presents concerns. Most notably, steps must be taken to protect the academic freedom of participants in the task force. While the material presented in the classroom has the potential to be biased, this is not in itself problematic: A chief benefit of study abroad programs is the opportunity to immerse oneself in the cultural and political environment of the host nation, even if prevailing views are objectionable. In an interview, Katz assured the board that participants would have ample opportunity to debate whatever topics they wished outside the classroom. This must be a key component of the experience, as it will allow students the chance to reflect critically on what they hear in the classroom. Nevertheless, the Wilson School should issue a disclaimer that students should be prepared to hear the regime’s perspective. It should also point out that the program in no way constitutes an endorsement of the Cuban regime.

With the launch of the bridge-year program, Princeton has made a commitment to increasing the international awareness of its students. This should not be limited to countries and political systems with which America maintains close ties. Katz’ proposed task force would provide students with a unique academic, social and cultural experience, and the University should do everything in its power to make the program a success.