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The renowned Cuban singer Daymé Arocena made impactful statements in an exclusive interview with BBC Mundo from Miami, where she discussed issues such as repression in Cuba, racism, and the challenges faced by exiled artists.
Arocena emphasized the situation of the protesters from July 11, 2021 (11J): “Cuba is a country burdened by repression and dictatorship,” he stated, adding that the majority of those who are still imprisoned are Black individuals, while many White protesters have managed to go into exile.
In this context, he mentioned figures such as the rapper and activist Maykel Osorbo, who is serving an eight-year prison sentence despite having been awarded a Latin Grammy for the song Patria y Vida, and the visual artist Luis Manuel Otero Alcántara, who is also incarcerated.
Regarding his departure from the island, Arocena recounted his shock at the reality of being unable to question or understand the situation in his own country. "I was scared, I felt cornered and I left", he confessed.
The artist compared the experience to a journey through time: "Leaving Cuba is like stepping into a time machine. It's like leaving the 1960s and landing straight in 2024."
Arocena also reflected on the challenges faced by Cuban musicians in exile, emphasizing that success on the island does not guarantee an easy transition to the international industry.
"They lack the humility to leave behind who they were in Cuba and understand that here they are like babies," she stated to emphasize the need for adaptation and learning in a new environment.
Despite the challenges, the artist stated that she has found support in different communities and that, although she no longer feels a sense of belonging to a single place, she continues on a journey of growth and discovery.
Prophet out of his land
In September 2024, a week after learning that she was nominated for a Latin Grammy in the Song of the Year category, Arocena pointed out that in her country she has never received recognition or support.
"In Cuba, I never earned a cent," he stated that time. "A Grammy nomination is a thread of hope. Every Cuban musician who gains visibility in the industry gives hope to those who are striving to succeed."
In May 2023, the singer released a song titled "To Move the Feet", which speaks about exile, freedom, and against repression in Cuba, shortly after the protests in Caimanera, Guantánamo.
Frequently Asked Questions about Daymé Arocena and the Situation in Cuba
Why does Daymé Arocena describe Cuba as a country burdened by repression and dictatorship?
Daymé Arocena describes Cuba in this way due to the repression and lack of freedoms that, according to her, characterize the Cuban regime. In her interview with BBC Mundo, she emphasized that many protesters from July 11, 2021, especially those of African descent, remain imprisoned, reflecting an oppressive system that limits expression and human rights.
What has Daymé Arocena's experience been like as an exiled artist?
Daymé Arocena has undergone a process of adaptation and learning in exile. Although success in Cuba does not guarantee an easy transition to the international industry, she has found support in various communities, allowing her to continue growing and discovering herself in her music career.
What impact does Daymé Arocena's nomination for the Latin Grammy have on her career?
Daymé Arocena's nomination for the Latin Grammy represents a thread of hope and recognition of her talent outside of Cuba. This nomination opens doors for her in the international music industry, providing the visibility and validation she did not receive in her homeland, where she never won awards like Lucas or Cubadisco.
What is the current situation of Maykel Osorbo and Luis Manuel Otero Alcántara in Cuba?
Maykel Osorbo and Luis Manuel Otero Alcántara remain imprisoned in Cuba. Osorbo is serving a nine-year sentence for his activism, while Otero Alcántara is also incarcerated on similar charges. Both are considered political prisoners and have received international support for their fight for freedom of expression and human rights on the island.
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