The Cuban Research Institute (CRI) of Florida International University (FIU) continues its tradition of convening scholars and other persons interested in the study of Cuba and Cuban Americans by announcing its Fifteenth Conference, dedicated to the memory of the distinguished Cuban American artist Humberto Calzada. Panels will consist on aspects of the main conference theme, mostly relevant to the history, economy, politics, culture, society, and creative expression of Cuba and its diaspora. The conference will consist of over 20 panels and over 80 speakers. Conference will be held in person and will not be available online. 

The Castro regime is experiencing its most severe crisis since taking power in 1959. Rather than a transitory crisis generated by a single event, as was the case during the “Special Period” of the early 1990’s, the current predicament appears to be much more consequential. Today, the regime is confronting manifold emergencies on several different fronts, from multiple economic breakdowns to a collapse of political legitimacy. These compound crises cannot be managed without significant structural reforms, which the regime continues to refuse unambiguously. Unlike previous occasions, there is no foreign partner willing to financially sponsor the regime. One way or another, the long-term survival of the regime in its current form has never appeared more questionable. 

Regardless of what could happen tomorrow in Cuba, this is an auspicious time to contemplate what the island should look like the day after. Considering the pervasive nature of the changes brought by the Castro regime, a regime transition would offer a unique opportunity to re-find the Cuban nation.

Registration fees include two continental breakfasts, coffee breaks, and all conference materials.

For additional details visit cri,fiu.edu or call (305)348-1991 

Registration fees: 

• Onsite Registration: $150 
• Non-FIU Students: $35 
• FIU Students, Faculty, and Staff: free of charge

The registration fee for persons living in Cuba and journalists: will be waived

Should you need an ADA accommodation to participate in a university event, program, or activity or need to request materials in an accessible format, please contact FIU’s Office of Civil Rights Compliance and Accessibility (CRCA) at 305-348-2785 or accomodations@fiu.edu. All requests for ADA accommodation or accessible materials for this event must be submitted to CRCA at least seven (7) business days prior to the event or at the earliest possible opportunity.