Perhaps never before has the word ‘families’ been uttered so often in Cuba, or with such passion. The new draft Families Code has attracted attention and generated debate about, as we are taught in school, the fundamental cell of society.
The document, in each of its articles, ensures legal consistency with the Constitution of the Republic, which explicitly establishes that every person has the right to form a family, to be recognized and protected by the state, whatever its form of organization, and the conditions created to make possible the achievement of its purposes.
Much has been said that this is the Code of affection, but it could also be the Code of empathy: that ability to put ourselves in another's shoes. Understanding that if a right is reserved for one portion of the citizenry, an injustice is committed, not only allows us to become better human beings, but also, and consequently, a better country.
The most recent data provided by the National Electoral Commission belies the unfounded rumors that those who oppose the new Code constitute a majority. In fact, 61.96% of the proposals submitted during the popular consultation were favorable.
Although the final objective is, of course, its approval – as one more step in a national project aspiring to become increasingly inclusive, as befits a socialist state of law and social justice – equally important, or more so, is the dialogue needed to build consensus. It is not a question of uncritically believing, as Fidel insisted, but rather of reading.
Martí wrote that families are the roots of peoples. Thus, it is well worth remembering that, as we struggle to protect all families, the strength of the tree we are as a nation is at stake.
