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CURRENT EVENT | January 4, 2015

Cuba US Relations

December 17, 2014 marked a dramatic shift in United States relations with Cuba. After over 50 years of a complete embargo, President Obama announced plans to normalize relations with the nearby island. Miami, Florida is the hub of the Cuban American community. From those who fled the revolution five decades years ago to those who have come recently - reaction to the president’s decision has been split. Listen to learn more about these reactions.

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Mixed Reactions In Miami On Diplomatic Overtures To Cuba

SOURCE:

12/18/2014

Listening Link (share with students)

Copy this link and distribute for students to listen from their own device.

https://app.listenwise.com/students/events/288-cuba-us-relations

Listening Comprehension Questions

Who did President Obama talk with on the phone? Why is this a big change?
Are all Cuban Americans in Miami responding to this decision in the same way?
Describe the split in reactions between the older generation and younger generation of Cubans in America.
Why is the daughter of the man whose plane was shot down by the Cuban Air Force so upset?
How do new Cuban arrivals feel about the decision to normalize relations?

Classroom Discussion Themes

Should politicians look to the past or the future when creating foreign policy?
How should countries treat their neighbors?

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