Key Takeaways:
- Karen Bass, now Los Angeles mayor, was once a leader of the Venceremos Brigade, linked to Cuban intelligence.
- The group aimed to recruit future U.S. officials for espionage.
- Bass maintained ties with Cuban figures, including spies, long after her involvement.
Who Was Karen Bass in the 1970s?
Karen Bass, now Mayor of Los Angeles, was a young organizer in the 1970s for the Venceremos Brigade, a group sending Americans to Cuba. At 22, she was a leader, visiting Cuba every six months, which was illegal at the time.
What Were the Venceremos Brigades?
The Venceremos Brigades attracted college students to support Cuban socialism by cutting sugar cane. Beyond farming, their real mission was to recruit future spies within the U.S. government.
Cuba’s Connection to Soviet Intelligence
Cuba’s DGI, controlled by the KGB, backed the Venceremos Brigades. Declassified FBI reports reveal their goal: placing spies in U.S. government roles for intelligence access.
Karen Bass’s Continued Involvement
Bass didn’t end her Cuban ties in the 70s. She continued visiting, associating with figures like Josefina Vidal, a KGB-trained spy involved in high-profile espionage cases.
Implications for U.S. Security
The Venceremos Brigades were more than idealistic trips. They were pipelines for spies. Karen Bass’s involvement raises concerns about potential infiltration.
What This Means Today
Karen Bass’s past links to Cuban intelligence highlight vulnerabilities in U.S. security. It questions the vetting of officials and the legacy of Cold War espionage.
Conclusion
Karen Bass’s journey from a brigade leader to mayor reveals a complex tale of ideology, espionage, and political ambition. It underscores the lasting impacts of Cold War strategies on today’s geopolitics.