Speech #920067141

I have noted the contribution the Cubans have made to American life. I am sure the distinguished Senators from Florida are even more aware of the contribution than any of us. Studies made In the MiamiDade County area have shown that the refugees who arrived virtually penniless have made dramatic economic advances. The total annual income of families of Spanish originnearly 90 percent Cubanrose from $342 million in September 1968. to $588 million by October 1970. During the same period. median family income rose 38 percent from $5.200 to $7.200. Nearly 40 percent of these families own their own homes. Very few refugees have had to receive public assistance. Refugees who do need public assistance apply for welfare in the same manner as other American citizens and are subject to the same eligibility requirements. but unlike normal welfare programs. the Federal Government pays the States 100 percent of the welfare costs for refugees. It is interesting to note that 80 percent of those on welfare are 60 years of age or older. It has not been easy for the once penniless refugees especially because of the language barrier. to join American society. I recall setting up a program in cooperation with the University of Miami Medical School in which the doctors who came from Cuba could be trained to take the medical examination of the State of Florida on a bilingual basis. I cannot imagine that for a million dollars. and that is all it amounts to. the United States would break its diplomatic and moral agreements. The entire world has watched this situation. There was great skepticism as to whether Castro would allow these refugees to come to this country. as to whether he would keep his agreement. The thought was that he would just send the poorest and the sickest. But he allowed these people to come.