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Cuba's Young Exiles: A Graphic Novel's True Story
23 Jun
Summary
- Over 14,000 children fled Cuba between 1960-1962.
- Operation Pedro Pan united Catholic Church and US State Dept.
- Graphic novel 'We Are Pan' shares this historical event.
Between 1960 and 1962, over 14,000 children, aged 4 to 16, were sent from Cuba to the United States by parents fearing the new Communist government. This mass evacuation, known as Operation: Pedro Pan, was facilitated by a partnership between the Catholic Church and the American State Department. The story highlights the geopolitical tensions of the Cold War era.
Andrew Frattino's graphic novel, 'We Are Pan,' co-created with artist Yasmin Flores, delves into this historical event. Frattino was inspired by his wife's Cuban heritage and the experiences of individuals who participated in Pedro Pan. He aimed to respectfully portray the emotional toll and loss of innocence these children endured.
Flores brought the narrative to life with her artwork, capturing the history and culture of Cuba. The graphic novel addresses contemporary issues such as political turmoil, family separation, and immigration. Frattino hopes the story will prompt readers to reflect on parental sacrifice and courage in extreme circumstances.
