Introduction:
The purpose of this final class is to investigate another concrete example of a workers’ state and how this has developed over time. We will summarize our study of The State and Revolution by using it to discuss revolutionary organizing in the U.S.
Learning objectives and outcomes:
At the end of class 6, comrades will:
- Have a deeper understanding of the evolution of the Cuban revolution
- Appreciate the role that Cuba has played in the international communist movement, especially after the overthrow and dissolution of the Soviet Union
- Be prepared to begin studying Lenin’s work, The State and Revolution.
Reading:
- Cuba’s State in Revolution,” by Gloria La Riva (pp. 79-90)
Recall activity:
- What do you remember taking away from last class? Write at least three things down.
- Share in pairs or as a whole group.
Discussion questions:
For “Cuba’s State in Revolution:”
- What led to the Cuban revolution?
- During the last class we talked about how the class struggle does not end with the overthrow of the bourgeois state. What additional insights does this chapter offer in this regard?
- What challenges does underdevelopment pose to the construction of socialism in Cuba? What about in other countries?
- What was the significance of the Agrarian Land Reforms and the Literacy Campaign?
- How does Cuba function as a workers’ democracy?
- What role has the Cuban revolution played in the international communist movement?
Music for discussion:
Watch the music video for “Work like Chavez” by Rebel Diaz. How does this song relate to today’s readings?
Engaging activity:
Following Cuba’s example
- This activity can be done individually or in small groups of 2-5.
- Individually or in your small group, think about the ways that the Cuban revolution has been able to wield the state not just to fight imperialism and capitalism, but to build socialism from the grassroots. (5 minutes)
- Now, imagine what we would be able to do with a workers’ state in the U.S. How might we reallocate resources to empower oppressed people? What organizations might we create? What campaigns might we embark on? What populations might we mobilize to conduct these campaigns? (10-15 minutes)
- Reconvene as a class and share what you have imagined.
Supplementary video:
Yohana De Leon: Remembering the Cuban Revolution
