Amid the discontent among Cuban university students due to the rise in ETECSA rates, which has sparked public protests, statements, and even a strike called by the Faculty of Mathematics at the University of Havana, a symbolic and beloved voice resonates once again: that of the Cuban singer-songwriter Liuba María Hevia.
Liuba shared a video on Facebook in which she performs a segment of "Que vivan los estudiantes," an iconic song by the Chilean artist Violeta Parra.
"Long live the students, garden of our joy. They are birds that are not scared of animals or police, they fear neither bullets nor the barking of the pack," is a verse filled with commitment that the singer chose.
Although he has not made explicit statements about it, his gesture has been interpreted as emotional and cultural support for the Cuban student cause.
"Liuba María Hevia supports Cuban university students with her singing," said the feminist platform Alas Tensas on Facebook, highlighting how the artist "once again stands up for Cuban culture in favor of the most vulnerable."
Hundreds of users praise the gesture of the troubadour in solidarity with the students mobilized against ETECSA's rate hike.
"Thank you, Liuba María. Thank you for standing by the young people who are speaking for all of Cuba today," noted journalist Mario J. Pentón.
"I expected nothing less from you, dear princess! Your voice and your music are the best support," said a man from Guantánamo.
"Thank you for supporting the students! For supporting the voice of your people that they want to silence more each day!" expressed a user.
From Madrid, where she is currently located, the singer-songwriter once again makes her voice heard. This isn't the first time she's done so.
In October 2024, during the severe energy crisis in Cuba, he announced that he would step away from social media until electricity was restored on the Island.
I will not return to social media until at least the power is restored in my country, she wrote then, accompanying her words with an aerial image of Cuba engulfed in darkness.
And in July 2021, following the historic protests of July 11th, Liuba spoke out against the repressive violence of the regime:
“Such pain. I make it clear my total disagreement with the use of force. All Cubans deserve to be heard, violence is not the way to defend any project," she wrote.
Liuba María Hevia, widely recognized for her musical work dedicated to children, has demonstrated through both actions and words her commitment to the most vulnerable sectors of Cuban society.
Its song, in this case, does not require direct proclamations to accompany it: the choice of a song and the moment are sufficient for it to become a symbol.
Today, amidst the tension over ETECSA's tariffs, and as young university students take risks to raise their voices in Cuba, that song by Violeta Parra resonates with renewed strength in the voice of an artist who, from afar, remains connected to her people.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Student Protests in Cuba and Liuba María Hevia's Support
Why are Cuban students protesting against ETECSA?
Cuban students are protesting because ETECSA has increased the rates for telecommunications services, which they consider an "unjustified rate hike." This increase has partially dollarized the service and limited internet access, making it unaffordable for many students and citizens. The measures have been seen as an additional punishment in a country with low wages and a worsening economic crisis.
How has Liuba María Hevia shown her support for Cuban students?
Liuba María Hevia showed her support for Cuban students by sharing a video on Facebook in which she performs a snippet of the song "Que vivan los estudiantes" by Violeta Parra. This gesture has been interpreted as an emotional and cultural endorsement of the Cuban student cause. Although she has not made explicit statements, her choice of song and timing has been symbolic.
What other figures in the arts have supported the student protests in Cuba?
In addition to Liuba María Hevia, other figures such as Haydée Milanés and Amarilys Núñez have publicly expressed their support for the student protests against the ETECSA rate hike. These artists have used their platforms to encourage students and defend the right to protest against social injustices. Their messages have highlighted the importance of freedom of expression and human rights in Cuba.
How has the Cuban government responded to the student protests?
The Cuban government has responded to the student protests with repression and denial. Through its official media, it has attempted to downplay the protests and has delegitimized the students' demands, accusing the demonstrators of being manipulated from abroad. Furthermore, it has reiterated its inflexible position on maintaining the new ETECSA rates.
Filed under:
