Author to speak on Cuban democracy

Author to speak on Cuban democracy
October 1999

Author Arnold August will be in Gainesville at the Civic Media Center on Wednesday evening, October 27th at 8:00 pm to discuss his new book, Democracy in Cuba and the 1997-98 Elections. A holder of a Maser's degree in Political Science from McGill University in Montreal, Canada, August's book gives a detailed account of the evolution of democratic processes in Cuba from the mid 1800's to today. Most Americans have no idea of the electoral process as practiced in Cuba, let alone its vitality. August's presentation will shed light on both past and present, and take a look at the future. Here are some comments on August's book:

"This is a timely and much needed study. The author has provided an insightful and empirical work based on direct research that challenges the deeply rooted assumptions on Cuban politics existing everywhere in the world, and particularly in the United States. It is a must for students of contemporary Cuba." -- Dr. Max Azicri, Professor of Political Science, Edinboro University of Pennsylvania.

"There is no other comparable source on the Cuban political process. August's book is invaluable for anyone interested in political representation in general, and the Cuban political process in particular." -- Ken Cole, Professor of Economics, University of East Anglia, United Kingdom.

"The Cuban electoral system is very complex, even more so because it is completely unknown to us. I was able to better understand it by reading the work." -- Jacques Hebert, Retired Senator from the Canadian Parliament.

"This book should be required reading for anyone interested in politics or the democratic process... I was fascinated by the description of both the recall procedure and the prescribed accountability sessions of the elected representatives.... The details of this complex, yet highly sophisticated system are clearly explained in what is truly a remarkable book! The title is not only a first for a non-Cuban, but scholarly as well as entertaining and enlightening. It was truly a delight to read!" -- David Warner, Member, Ontario Legislature.

The event is co-sponsored by the Civic Media Center and the Gainesville-Cuba Friendship Network.