The result is a much heightened awareness of the need to change U.S. policy. For Cuba, the immediate concern is that the Cuban Adjustment of Status Act, passed in 1996, should be repealed. This law grants automatic and immediate access to the U.S. for illegal migrants from Cuba who manage to reach U.S. soil. It has led people to take extreme risks, including Elian's mother and many others who have died in the attempt. It has also distorted normal immigration arrangements between the two countries.
More basic discussions are also underway.
A number of resolutions are under consideration by Washington. One would lift the blockade on sales of U.S. food and medicines to Cuba. But this change would be meaningless unless restrictions are also lifted on the financing of such sales, and on the shipping of goods to Cuba. The battle on these issues is far from over, but an increasing number of Americans are questioning the whole issue of the U.S. blockade. They are joining the outcry of millions throughout the world who believe that Cubans have fought hard for their independence and national sovereignty, and for their socialist model, and deserve to retain them without harassment.