Children of Cuba Remember Their Flight To America

Below I have included a link to an interesting interview describing the 1959 flight of Cuban children known as "Pedro Pan." Loving Cuban parents made the ultimate sacrifice as they placed their young children on a plane destined for safety found within the borders of  the US.

Children and parents alike thought they would be shortly reunited only to find out that politics contributed to a permanent separation. Over 14,000 children left Cuba, most facing an unlikely return.

Before leaving for Cuba, I had the privilege to interview a "Pedro Pan" refugee. While living in the US. he has manage to do quite well for himself. He gave credit for his success to the excellent education that he received in Cuba. His story was spellbinding. At a later date, I am hoping to reinterview him in a video recording. My written words cannot convey the emotions heard in his words and seen on his face. Hopefully, he will be comfortable with a web interview. I sensed that there is still a "looking over your shoulder" skepticism in his actions..

Upon landing in Cuba, a fellow delegate noticed certain individuals who were kissing the ground moments after deplaning. One cannot help but wonder, were these "Pedro Pan" children returning to "Neverland?" Returning to Cuba to visit family is a recent allowance.

Another future interview in the making is with some of the "lotto ticket" refugees. These Cubans left Cuba after winning a "lotto ticket" or "free pass" out of the country.

How has past experiences by Cuban parents and grandparents affected their American born child? How does living in a Cuban influenced Miami (500,000 Cuban Americans) affect the child who has grown up, in an environment where the mention of Cuba, carries a different message depending on whose doing the talking? Does heritage and upbringing play a role in who the child becomes?

And as usual... I cannot help but wonder, how does this trickle down, into the art experience? Do these children have unique needs? How can art teachers acknowledge the past, maintain integrity and celebrate diversity? By understanding our students, I feel we can create an environment which encourages meaningful and reflective art.

Check out the link below for the audio or text version of an interview with a "Pedro Pan"survivor. I have also included a number of books for those who are interested.
http://www.npr.org/2011/11/19/142534943/pedro-pan-childrens-life-altering-flight-from-cuba

Books on the "Pedro Pan" experience.