1. United States
2. Pa.
3. Letter

The reinstatement of Cuba as a State Sponsor of Terrorism and the revival of the "restricted list" severely hamper progress towards democracy and human rights in Cuba. Restricting engagement and financial transactions with Cuban entities beyond what is already mandated by law will only entrench the existing regime. We should be pursuing policies that open channels of communication and support the Cuban people's aspirations for freedom. Maintaining a hardline stance against Cuba has historically been ineffective in catalyzing meaningful change on the island. Instead of doubling down on failed policies of isolation, we need a new approach centered on empowering Cuba's burgeoning civil society through increased engagement. Reversing these punitive actions would demonstrate goodwill, while still allowing for calibrated responses to specific human rights violations. A degree of flexibility is required to make progress. I urge you to reconsider reinstating the State Sponsor of Terrorism designation and reviving restrictions on dealings with Cuban entities. An unwavering hardline approach has done little to improve human rights or advance democracy in Cuba over six decades. It is time to explore alternative policies that provide more effective leverage to help the Cuban people achieve their legitimate goals of reform and self-determination. A degree of constructive engagement is the most viable path forward.