The Cuban writer and activist Guillermo Rodríguez Sánchez embarked on a migratory journey that has taken him across the jungles of Nicaragua.
Through several posts on Facebook, Rodríguez is documenting his journey. He shared a message stating that his moment has arrived and he is in Nicaragua.
"Later I will write the post for them to cry, and about my emotions upon leaving from José Martí Airport. For now, here's this little update, all in size. I brought the sandals just so you know. And of course, we will continue to assist many people from this account, now even more than before," he said.
A striking moment from his journey
"Of all the mental images from the first day of my journey through Nicaragua, one stood out above all others and was engraved in my memory with fire. I could write endless praises to that Cuban girl who carries her baby, protected, through the unknown jungle—countless sublime dedications, verbal tributes filled with embellishments and everything in between... But no, what needs to be said here is a vibrant and resounding 'Cuban women are the backbone of their country.' I don’t know about you, but I kneel before any mother capable of overcoming so many fears and uncertainties and venturing into the world with her child in her arms, convinced that she is a lioness roaring for her future," she expressed.
Despite having left Cuba, Rodríguez Sánchez continues to organize donations from his Facebook profile, with the support of his friends on the island.
"Ahh no, of course from this profile we will continue to assist cases of people with disabilities whenever possible. My absence from Cuba is no obstacle for Verona Bonce to keep distributing what empathetic people who follow us generously donate," she recently published.
A journey in a complicated migratory context
The activist's departure comes at a particularly difficult time for Cuban emigrants. A few weeks ago, the Cuban government received the first deportation flight from the United States under the new administration of Donald Trump.
On February 27, the repatriation of 104 Cuban migrants (84 men, 19 women, and one minor) to the island was finalized. This repatriation flight is part of the bilateral migration agreements between the two countries and is a response to the U.S. president's promise to intensify mass deportations.
So far in 2025, there have been 11 repatriation flights from various countries, bringing a total of 296 people back to Cuba. This situation is causing uncertainty among Cuban migrants who are looking to reach the United States or other safe destinations to rebuild their lives.
Guillermo Rodríguez Sánchez is now facing the challenges of a journey through the jungle. He has not disclosed his final destination, but he is on a route that typically passes through Mexico in search of reaching the U.S. border.
The activist's followers are closely monitoring his social media and are waiting for stories from the jungle, while continuing to assist the vulnerable individuals in Ciego de Ávila.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Journey and Activism of Guillermo Rodríguez Sánchez
Who is Guillermo Rodríguez Sánchez and why did he leave Cuba?
Guillermo Rodríguez Sánchez is a Cuban writer and activist known for his solidarity actions and criticisms of the Cuban regime. He left Cuba to embark on a migration journey through the jungles of Nicaragua, in search of new opportunities and to continue his activism from abroad. Despite his departure, he continues to organize donations for those in need on the island.
What solidarity actions has Guillermo Rodríguez Sánchez taken in Cuba?
Guillermo Rodríguez Sánchez has led several humanitarian initiatives, such as donating a wheelchair to a girl with cerebral palsy and raising funds to provide housing and assistance to families in extreme poverty in Ciego de Ávila. His activism aims to alleviate the living conditions of the most vulnerable in Cuba, often without government support.
How has the migration crisis impacted Cubans fleeing the island?
The migration crisis has driven many Cubans to undertake dangerous journeys through Central America in search of a better future. The intensification of deportations by the United States and the immigration restrictions imposed by countries allied with the Cuban regime, such as Nicaragua, further complicate their attempts to escape. This situation creates uncertainty and significant risks for Cuban migrants.
What challenges do Cuban activists face when trying to leave the country?
Cuban activists face numerous challenges, including persecution by the regime and denial of entry to other countries allied with Cuba. Many find themselves stranded in situations of migratory limbo, such as in the case of Leandro René Hernández Ibarra, who was rejected by Nicaragua and became trapped in Peru. The influence of the Cuban regime in the region complicates their attempts to seek asylum in other countries.
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