Asked and Answered: Sending Direct Mail to Cuba for the First Time in 50 Years Yesterday, President Obama sent a letter to a 76-year-old Cuban letter writer via direct mail. Read the first letter an American President has sent to Cuba in 50 years. (Official White House Photo)

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View Ileana’s letter and the President’s response here:

Mr President,

I heard last night by telesur — not the Cuban broadcast news — that you will visit Havana in March. I could not be happier to hear this.

An American president finally taking this so much needed step, the second best one after your open admittance that the over half a century cruel embargo on this lovely, enduring and resilient little island just did not work. We Cubans believe it’s a black page on American history and geopolitics. Very sorry to say this…

Dear President Obama: I’ve followed your political career since you were running for office the first time. Then I drank to your victory at/with the CNBC Havana office that glorious night. I also celebrated your second term election with friends at home. I wish there would be a third, perhaps one day…

I’ve written you many times introducing myself. Also I have invited you to a cup of Cuban coffee at my place in Vedado, if and when you would finally come.

Please, please, do visit me. Give this 76 year old Cuban lady the gift of meeting you personally. I think there are not many Cubans so eager as I to meet you in person not as an important American personality but as a charming president whose open smile wins hearts.

Please understand I very much look forward to it.

I would also love for you to come with your wonderful, lovely wife.

God bless you son, also bless your family.

Ileana R. Yarza

And check out President Obama’s response:

Dear Ileana:

Thank you for your kind words. I appreciate your support over the years, and I hope this note — which will reach you by way of the first direct mail flight between the United States and Cuba in over 50 years — serves as a reminder of a bright new chapter in the relationship between our two nations.

I am looking forward to visiting Havana to foster this relationship and highlight our shared values — and, hopefully, I will have time to enjoy a cup of Cuban coffee.

Sincerely,

Barack Obama

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