DeLauro Applauds Release of American Alan Gross from Cuban Prison

NEW HAVEN, CT—Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) released the following statement today on the release of American Alan Gross from a Cuban prison.

“For the first time in five years Alan Gross will be home to hug his wife and celebrate Hanukkah with his family. His unjust arrest and imprisonment was a tragedy that changed their lives, but now they can begin a new chapter together. I was honored to meet Mr. Gross earlier this year and was struck by the declining state of his health. He is back on American soil, receiving much needed medical care, not a moment too soon. I was impressed by his strength in the face of what he has endured over the last five years and wish him the best as he readjusts to normal life. Mr. Gross’ humanitarian release is great news and I applaud President Obama, Secretary of State Kerry, Ambassador Rice and all the members of Congress who worked so hard to make this happen.

“I also want to applaud the President for his historic announcement today to normalize Cuba-U.S. relations. This fundamental shift moves us in a new direction that will benefit both nations. The President has done what he can within his power to reestablish diplomatic relations, increase commerce, and advance shared humanitarian interests on health, migration, drug trafficking and disaster response. These are important steps toward ending the embargo that has not benefitted either nation, but the President cannot act alone in this effort. The Congress can and should lift the embargo so that the Cuban people who have suffered for over 50 years can fully join the international community and 21st Century global economy. This is a bipartisan issue and it has bipartisan support. The direct engagement announced today will allow us to build a healthier, mutually beneficial relationship with Cuba.”

In addition to her meeting with Mr. Gross earlier this year, DeLauro also visited Cuba in 2007 to talk about the economic advantages of easing the relationship between the two countries. She is also a member of the bipartisan Cuban Working Group.


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