Readers' Voices: An American in Cuba

Tom Millington teaches a call on the cultural realities of Cuba each semester.(Photo: Handout)Tom Millington wanted to be a diplomat. Instead, he's an educator in Cuba.But he acts as an ambassador of sorts, coordinating a study abroad program that helps American students learn more about the island nation. And with the historic shift to normalize U.S.-Cuba relations announced Dec. 17, he is eager to see firsthand what happens next.While Millington is concerned about the need for more freedom — in speech and the right to dissent — he feels that progress on that front is being made gradually. In fact, Cuba made good on its promise to release 53 political prisoners Monday. The big concern, he says, is the economy. Many people look to increased tourism to boost businesses. The U.S. easing travel restrictions this week is another step in that direction.What do the U.S. and Cuba have in common? And what do Cuban students teach their American peers? Listen to this installment of Readers' Voices with hosts Eileen Rivers (Web and social media editor for USA TODAY's Editorial Page) and Michelle Poblete (USA TODAY's Your Say editor).Listen to the show here or download it for later: