There is something to learn from all of the historical events that happened last week.
On Tuesday, March 22, the world faced yet another fatal atrocity committed by the terrorist group known as ISIS. The attacks in Brussels, Belgium, left many dead and many more wounded. Those fatal events have caused the ominous, far-reaching threat of terrorism to loom yet again in the thoughts of many. But there is something to learn from all of the historic events of that week, which included the first visit of a sitting United States president to Cuba in nearly 90 years.
For much of what is considered “remembered history,” Cuba has represented a place of social injustice, political corruption, military strong-arming and economic struggle. Several of those not-so-endearing qualities caused the U.S. to declare and uphold an economic embargo on Cuban goods for the last 54 years. Relations between the two countries, and between Cuba and world organizations such as the United Nations, historically have been bad.
Yet, with his family by his side and a nation to lead, President Obama met with Cuban officials and even witnessed a Major League Baseball exhibition game. Baseball is a sport that has deep roots in Cuba’s culture. It was reported that President Obama and Cuban President Raul Castro discussed the need to end the embargo of Cuba and strengthen economic ties between the two nations.
What there is to learn from last week's events is not that any country or people should try to negotiate or meet the demands of terrorists. What can be learned, however, is that condemning people forever is not only unjust, but also ineffective in creating a better world.
It is also evident — through the hate-filled attacks in Brussels — that by discriminating against any people we are inviting them to be angry and vengeful. It is not at all realistic to say terrorism happens solely because of phobic actions and feelings toward certain groups of people. However, a great deal of hatred can be allowed to fester and grow as a result of segregation and discrimination.
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In light of recent terrorist events, including the attacks in Brussels and Paris, some, especially in the political realm, are suggesting the U.S. close its borders to refugees and launch surveillance on all Muslims in America. Taking that sort of action would be like doing the opposite of what was achieved by trying to mend and rebuild relations with Cuba. By turning away refugees and targeting individuals because of their faith, not only would the U.S. be violating one of the key principles that makes the country great, but it also would allow a space for the darkness or extremism to spread even further.
Anna Ayers is a freshman studying journalism and finance. What do you think about President Obama's visit to Cuba? Email her at aa183414@ohio.edu.
