One of my three interests was the education system in Cuba. I was able
to find a couple of teachers who had recently taken a trip to Cuba (through
the Center for Latin American Studies at the University of Pittsburgh)
to learn more about Cuban schools and to also learn about Cuban education.
I found two teachers who genuinely offered to assist me with this project
by agreeing to an interview by e-mail.
Mya
While doing research on Cuban family life and teen and dating traditions,
I came across the idea that dating in Latin countries is taken seriously
among many families whether they are religious or not. Teenage girls who
consider dating, are taken on dates with the supervision of parents, or
a multitude of other older family members. Sometimes they are not allowed
to date at all. Is this equivalent to how dating is viewed in Cuba?
Nancy
Yes, I believe so from what we heard and observed. Chaperones, asking
permission, formal "courting" etc. seem to be deeply embedded
into the culture. The extended family all seem to have important roles
in the lives of the young adults. However, they still seem to have teen
pregnancy and other issues like we do in the U.S.
Loraine
We didn't have the chance to live with families while we were in Cuba,
so I don't have much firsthand knowledge of many of your questions. In
reference to question 1, I don't know that dating in Cuba is such a supervised
activity, I have read in more than one source that within the closed Cuban
society, and with prices geared to the tourists, many young people can't
afford enjoying themselves at bars or clubs. Ana Menendez, a journalist
whose writings are included in Cuba on the Verge, writes that,
"That leaves dating--and its corollary,sex--as the one great national
pastime. At night, the young people line the Malecon singing, dancing,
drinking, and making out: a joyful exuberance that belies the fact that
there is little else to do."
Mya
How are men viewed in Cuban society? Are dating circumstances the same?
Did these values apply to the males in your host family growing up in
Cuba?
Nancy
Men seem to be viewed as having more rights by birth (the mere fact that
they are males). Double standards, especially regarding dating, seem to
apply. Both males and females seem to have equal access to education and
careers. So in that aspect, equality seems to prevail.
Mya
What would you say are the recognizable differences between Cuba's school
system and the school systems in the United States?
Nancy
The biggest difference seems to be in the "education ethic",
the culture and family's value of education. It is deemed of great importance.
Educators are respected and almost revered (contrary to the US today).
Discipline therefore seems to virtually be a non-issue in their schools.
Loraine
There are vast differences, mainly because in contrast to our many local
districts and school boards, there is one, unified system. There aren't
discipline problems as we know them here--no drugs or violence; there
is parental involvement with the majority of parents cooperating with
the school; attendance is above 95%; most schools are neighborhood schools
with students walking, though there are boarding schools also. Cubans
pride themselves that equality exists in all schools regarding facilities.
There are no standardized tests, but there is an entrance exam for the
university. There is educational TV with programs made by selected teachers.
In short, education is valued and teachers are respected.
Mya
Can you name at least three traditional family customs that are popular
in many Cuban families?
Nancy
Sharing family meals, Sunday walks or leisure activities together, and
dating protocol.
Mya
What would you say is the most popular music in Cuba?
Nancy
The dance music. I can't think of the terms right now sans, salsa etc.
There is
a popular music group currently in Miami that they listen to (American
Cubans).
Loraine
In the same book, Cuba on the Verge, timba is reported to be
one of the
most popular forms of music today. There are several rap groups--the
Orishas is one of the most famous.
Mya
What do you think will happen when Fidel Castro dies?
Nancy
I think that perhaps some of his ways and control will die with him. Cubans
are very loyal and committed to "the revolution." I think that
someone may try and step up to his former position, but I think given
the economic situation, things need to change. The reality of the economic
situation will necessitate and initiate change.
Loraine
It is hard to imagine Cuba without Fidel. I wonder if there will
be temporary chaos after his death. In a closed society that has become
two-tiered due to acceptance of the dollar economy, one can only guess
how many Cubans have become disenchanted with their leader. I don't know
what will happen.
Mya
What would you say are the similarities between the American family and
the Cuban family?
Nancy
Love of family seems to be universal. The extended family in some cases
seems to be more directly linked in Cuba than much of the culture in the
US.
Mya
What is your most memorable experience you have had in Cuba?
Nancy
The entire experience was very memorable and enjoyable. The enjoyment
and love of life and each other was pervasive...music, dance, walks at
night and good times stood out. Material items somehow seemed less important
(perhaps because they are less available).