As the the United States’ relationship with Cuba gets cozier, the Hispanic National Bar Association is ready to help.

HNBA is launching a task force directed at the revitalized relationship between Cuba and the U.S. The members of the organization’s “Cuba Task Force” will present themselves as a resource for the renewed U.S.-Cuba partnership.

“We must ensure that the policy changes that are advanced not only improve business and economic opportunities between our nations, but also promote the civil and human rights of all Cubans on the island,” HNBA National President Robert Maldonado said in a statement.

Joining other industry groups and associations, HNBA wants to be a helping hand in business, economic, and legal connections between the United States and Cuba.

Marking History

While the five-decade-old embargo on Cuba remains in effect in most cases, the U.S. began renewing diplomatic ties last year, opening the door for business connections beyond the current allowed exceptions, along with more travel freedoms.

The diplomatic shift is pivotal in enabling two geographically adjacent countries to build new relationships, and HNBA is in a position to help make those relationships happen.

“The historic changes in our nation’s diplomatic relations with Cuba are already having immediate and long-term effects on the families, organizations, and economies of each nation,” Maldonado said.

Association Teamwork

HNBA joins other industry groups and associations—including those in education, travel, tourism, and business—with its new initiative. The task force will provide legal analysis and policy recommendations.

“Working with key HNBA members and other stakeholders, the newly formed Cuba Task Force will amplify these priorities and communicate directly with those policymakers in Washington, D.C.,” Maldonado said.

HNBA and its task force members will help their American cohorts connect to its community in Cuba, standing up for business development from the U.S. and humanitarian issues in Cuba.

Annie Hernandez, president of the Cuban American Bar Association, is among individuals from law firms, businesses, and related groups who will take part.

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