    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1997, Book II)]
    [December 23, 1997]
    [Page 1822]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on the Death of Sebastian Arcos Bergnes
    December 23, 1997

        Hillary and I were saddened to learn of the death of Sebastian Arcos
    Bergnes, a courageous and tireless activist for human rights, democracy,
    and freedom in Cuba.
        Mr. Arcos dedicated his life to peaceful change in his beloved
    homeland. He was a man of honor and dignity who commanded enormous
    respect around the world for the sacrifices he made and the good work he
    did for the people of Cuba. As one of the founders of the human rights
    movement in Cuba, he blazed a trail which has inspired many others who
    cherish individual liberties. He was an example to us all and will be
    missed.
        Our thoughts and prayers are with his son and daughter and the rest
    of the family who will carry on the effort to secure human rights in
    Cuba.