On the occasion of the 25th anniversary of the Mesa Redonda, Elián González, the once "symbolic child" of Cuban propaganda, delivered a speech full of emotions and praise, both for the television program and for Fidel Castro.
With tears in his eyes, González expressed his heartfelt gratitude, stating that the space transformed him into the person he is today, as can be seen in a video shared by the television program on its official YouTube channel.
"I truly became a person thanks to you," he stated, crediting the program with shaping his character.
According to him, this space not only allowed the people to understand their "cause," but it also served as "the foundation" for him to be able to establish a family today and to become "a grateful, committed, and happy person."
It seems that the miracle of Cuban television not only informs but also shapes human beings to order.
In a solemn tone, González wanted to delve into his relationship with Fidel Castro, lamenting that he had met him at too young an age: "If I have any regret, it's for having known him when I was so young, and for having lost him while still so young."
Those words were spoken while he expressed his wish that he had received a reprimand from the commander in his adulthood to set his life straight, because, in his view, Fidel's corrections had marked a turning point in his life.
In a moment of clarity, Elián acknowledged that it was not he who brought the Mesa Redonda to life, but rather the opposite: “I am convinced that the round tables did not start with her. I am convinced that our commander initiated them.”
Elián's speech made it clear that he remains the perfect symbol of an official narrative that insists on eternal gratitude, devotion to a television program, and the sanctification of a leader.
For him, the Round Table is not only a space for analysis but also the place where grateful, committed souls are shaped, ready to honor the one who should be reprimanding them from beyond.
It's hard not to wonder if this speech moved those who heard it as much as it made them smile ironically.
Because if the Mesa Redonda truly "creates people," one wonders what other hidden abilities this state television program might possess, which, according to Elián, is almost miraculous.
Frequently Asked Questions about Elián González and his relationship with Fidel Castro and the Round Table
What did Elián González express about Fidel Castro in his speech?
Elián González expressed his gratitude towards Fidel Castro, lamenting having known and lost him at a young age. He voiced his wish to have received a reprimand from the commander in his adulthood to set his life straight. Elián highlighted his emotional connection and admiration for Castro, whom he continues to see as a central figure in his life.
Why does Elián González attribute his personal development to the Mesa Redonda?
Elián González expresses his gratitude to Mesa Redonda for shaping him into the person he is today, stating that the program allowed the public to understand his "cause" and served as "the cornerstone" for forming a family. He believes that Mesa Redonda molded his character and made him a grateful, committed, and happy individual.
What was the role of the Mesa Redonda in the Elián González case?
La Mesa Redonda played a crucial role in the official propaganda surrounding the Elián González case, presenting his story to the Cuban people and supporting the narrative of the Cuban government. Elián believes that La Mesa Redonda was essential for his cause and personal development, according to his own words in the speech.
How has the case of Elián González impacted relations between the United States and Cuba?
The case of Elián González was a turning point in relations between the United States and Cuba, triggering a diplomatic crisis between the two countries. The legal and political battle over his custody marked a significant shift in bilateral relations, generating tensions and polarization within the Cuban-American community.
Filed under:
