FAQ

When is VB52?

The 52nd contingent of the Venceremos Brigade will be from July 18-July 30.

What is the purpose of VB52? Is it a vacation?

No, this is not a vacation. Our goal is to bring a brigade of at least 125 people to see Cuba first hand, and to engage in solidarity through learning, voluntary labor, material aid and organizing against the blockade

What kind of voluntary work does the VB do in Cuba?

We do the work that is asked of us. The VB was founded in 1969 as a work project for US Americans to support the largest ever sugar harvest in Cuba. Accordingly, the first brigades worked cutting sugarcane. Subsequent brigades have continued this legacy in other areas of agricultural work as well as in construction and light manufacturing work. Recent brigades have planted and harvested fruits and vegetables in urban gardens, aided in post-hurricane housing reconstruction, painted university buildings, and assembled notebooks in a small factory.

How much does the trip cost and what does the cost cover?

VB52 costs $2400. The trip cost covers the flights between Miami and Cuba, visas, health insurance for travelers, as well as accommodations, meals, and transportation costs in Cuba.

Are there scholarships for the trip for those of us who are low income?

There are scholarships available. To apply, indicate on your application that you require financial assistance. It is also crucial that you fundraise! 

What COVID precautions are there during the trip?

Our covid protocol is developed by our medical team in partnership with ICAP and Cuban doctors.  These aren’t available yet for VB52, but the precautions taken last time were: wearing masks while indoors, testing, health team monitoring, and accessibility to Cuban medical doctors if needed. We want our whole brigade to be healthy the whole time!

Please reach out to venceremosbrigade@protonmail.com with any questions about specific situations.

After I submit my application, am I automatically accepted?

No. You must interview and be offered a spot on VB52. Your spot is secured when we receive your first payment/deposit. Start fundraising now.

Are accommodations available for those with mobility and/or other accessibility needs?

Yes! We will work, in partnership with our Cuban partners, to address mobility and/or other accessibility needs to the best we can.  We will be most successful if we plan ahead, so please be prepared to share your access needs both on the application and at the interview. 

The blockade seriously impacts accessibility in Cuba, so not all access needs will be able to be met.

What fundraising tips/resources could I use to help make this trip possible?

1. Host events to fundraise for your trip. These events could be parties, cultural, and/or political events. 
2. Call your friends, family, and organizations that you are a member of and teach them about the US blockade against Cuba and about the Venceremos Brigade. This is a great opportunity to ask them for donations for your trip. 
3. Baked goods and plate sales, design and sell projects like t-shirts or zines or coloring books