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The Cuban rapper Eliécer Márquez Duany, better known as El Funky, may face deportation from the United States, according to the artist himself.
According to their post on social media, they have "30 days to leave the country or be deported".
In his message, he called on the "Cuban brothers who know his anti-communist track record" and American congressmen to offer their support during this critical time.
El Funky, one of the artists who participated in the recording of "Patria y Vida", arrived in the United States three years ago, initially to attend the Latin Grammy Awards 2021 ceremony, where the song, which became an anthem for the freedom of Cuba, was nominated in two categories: Song of the Year and Best Urban Song.
After arriving in Miami, El Funky told local media that State Security accompanied him to the plane and hinted that they might not allow him to return.
"I'm in Miami, yes, and some are asking, 'Were you allowed to leave?'. No, the question is whether you can return! But let it be clear that my goal is named Maykel Castillo Pérez (El Osorbo), my brother, and I will do everything possible and impossible to support his freedom as well as that of all unjustly imprisoned individuals," El Funky wrote on Facebook at that time.
Within Cuba, El Funky was pursued by the regime due to his connections with Osorbo and the opposition Movimiento San Isidro. In March of last year, he released the song “Paro Nacional”, coinciding with the protests that began on Sunday, March 17, in Santiago de Cuba and spread to other locations in the country.
Additionally, in May 2023, he released the song "Warrior", a tribute to political prisoners and the victims of communism, where he reflects on his life experiences in Cuba and remembers his friends Osorbo and Luis Manuel Otero Alcántara. In the song's music video, the artist reaffirms his critical stance against the Cuban regime.
The Cuban activist Amelia Calzadilla reacted to the situation of El Funky, questioning how it is possible that a "proven activist" and "easy target for the dictatorship" is facing this process.
Calzadilla warned that the return of El Funky to Cuba would mean "siege, political persecution, discredit, unemployment, and a real risk of imprisonment for exercising his right to peaceful civic protest". Furthermore, he urged people to share his message in an effort to reverse the process.
Frequently asked questions about the possible deportation of El Funky and the situation of Cuban activists
Why could El Funky be deported from the United States?
El Funky could be deported from the United States as he has received a notice giving him 30 days to leave the country or face deportation. The rapper, known for his anti-communist stance and his involvement in "Patria y Vida," has reached out to his supporters and U.S. congress members for help in preventing his deportation.
What is the impact of the deportation of Cuban activists on the struggle for human rights in Cuba?
The deportation of Cuban activists like El Funky could negatively impact the fight for human rights in Cuba, as these individuals are critical voices against the Cuban regime. The deportation could lead to harassment, political persecution, and imprisonment upon returning to Cuba, as highlighted by activist Amelia Calzadilla.
What risks does El Funky face if he returns to Cuba?
If El Funky returns to Cuba, he faces significant risks such as harassment, political persecution, discredit, unemployment, and the real risk of being incarcerated for exercising his right to peaceful civic protest. His history of opposition to the regime makes him an easy target for the Cuban dictatorship.
What has been El Funky's role in the struggle for freedom in Cuba?
El Funky has been a key figure in the fight for freedom in Cuba, especially through his participation in the song "Patria y Vida", which has become an anthem for Cuba's liberty. He has also released tracks like "Paro Nacional" and "Warrior", which criticize the Cuban regime and support political prisoners.
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