Last week, Baby Lores traveled to Cuba; one of his main reasons was to embrace his sick grandmother again after six years of separation.
However, what could have been simply a family trip was first marred by the repressive Cuban authorities, and later by criticism on social media.
The singer shared in an Instagram post: “This is one of the most difficult journeys I have experienced. I returned to Cuba to visit my grandmother, who is ill in the hospital, and took the opportunity to reconnect with my friend of many years, Volty, who was recording an interview at the Hotel Habana Libre. In the midst of our conversation, where I spoke from the heart about freedom, truth, and the injustices we live in our country, the interview was abruptly interrupted by security agents.”
Later, while dropping off his friend at home, he was intercepted by the police on the street: “This experience made it even clearer to me the price one pays for speaking out in a country where censorship and oppression prevail. But they will not stop me. Let us denounce once again the lack of freedom. It is time for change.”
The post by Baby Lores about his trip to Cuba was met with criticism from Alexander Otaola, who openly questioned the artist's version: “If you don’t want to take this risk, my dear Lores, don’t go to Cuba, it’s simple. Everything that happens to people who decide to go to Cuba is because they choose to go to no man's land. I know there’s family reasons, the grandmother, but Claudia Valdés also had family reasons and the grandmother, and ended up dancing with Ana de Armas.”
In an interview with "Destino Tolk", Baby Lores addressed the criticisms regarding his trip to Cuba: “You have two options, either you completely disconnect and forget you have family, don’t send them money because you are doing the same thing; you let your people starve out of conviction or you do what some people like me have decided to do, you have to let go of that ego, let go of that pride, of being what you are supposed to be socially.”
“For me, the hug I gave my grandmother is worth much more than anything anyone could say on social media,” the artist stated.
“I am calm and happy with myself, and if I need to go back to give one more hug, either to my mom or to anyone who needs it, as long as it's in my power, I will do it and I don’t have to ask for anyone's permission. These are my decisions; that is the freedom of a human being,” Baby Lores added.
Frequently Asked Questions about Baby Lores' Trip to Cuba and the Criticism Received
Why did Baby Lores travel to Cuba?
Baby Lores traveled to Cuba primarily to visit her ailing grandmother after six years of being apart. During the trip, she also took the opportunity to reunite with friends and discuss issues of freedom and justice on the island.
How did Baby Lores react to the criticism of his trip to Cuba?
Baby Lores responded to the criticism by stating that he values the embrace of his grandmother more than the opinions on social media. He emphasized that his decisions are personal and that he does not need to ask for anyone's permission to visit his family.
What difficulties did Baby Lores face during his visit to Cuba?
During his visit, Baby Lores faced the interruption of an interview by the Cuban State Security, which highlighted the censorship and oppression in the country. He was also intercepted by the police, reinforcing his critical stance towards the Cuban regime.
Why do some Cubans criticize those who travel to Cuba from abroad?
Critics are often motivated by the perception that these trips could indirectly support the Cuban regime. However, many travelers, like Baby Lores, argue that their visits are focused on supporting and connecting with their families, not on endorsing the prevailing political system.
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