US-Cuba Deal To Help Music Exchange

A lifting of restrictions on US-Cuban relations was announced by the White House March 15, which included an expansion of reasons for which American citizens can travel to Cuba and the removal of a regulation that made it difficult for Cubans to work in the States.

Tourism is still not technically allowed because of the U.S. trade embargo, but educational activities like musical performances and sports are now viewed as cultural appreciation, and are acceptable reasons for travel.

Travelers may be asked to show an itinerary to prove that they are visiting for approved purposes and are technically required to keep records of their activities in Cuba for five years, but the administration indicated in its announcement that these regulations might not be strictly enforced.

Cubans living in the U.S. will now be allowed to earn a normal salary. It was illegal for employers to pay Cuban citizens more than their cost of living expenses unless they defected. Now employment for many Cubans, including musicians and artisans, could be much more feasible.

The Cuban government is also now allowed to use the U.S. Dollar in its international transactions, something that it was previously not allowed to do, which discouraged many Cubans from coming to America where they would be paid in dollars.

Western artists are already returning to the island, as Major Lazer held what most consider to be Cuba’s first major EDM concert in Havana March 6, and The Rolling Stones will play at Ciudad Deportiva de la Habana March 25.