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The Cuban Workers' Central (CTC) has called upon all Cubans to participate in large-scale parades for May Day, International Workers' Day, amidst a dire economic and energy crisis.
The central event will take place at the Plaza de la Revolución José Martí in Havana, and will be replicated throughout the country, according to the victorious announcement from the CTC.
Under the slogan "For Cuba, Together We Create," the call aims to "reaffirm the unity of the Cuban people" and their resilience in the face of what the regime considers "the growing hostility of an increasingly aggressive empire."
With the regime's usual bellicose rhetoric, the text noted that the mobilization will be a "resounding demonstration" that Cubans continue to "fight," despite signs of discontent with the government's management on the Island.
The parade will also serve as a platform for the regime to blame the United States government for the issues afflicting the Cuban people.
"We will continue to demand the lifting of the economic, commercial, and financial blockade imposed by the US government against Cuba, which has intensified with new coercive measures in these early days of its new administration, including the absurd re-inclusion of our country on the spurious list of state sponsors of terrorism, all of which significantly affect the well-being of the people, workers, and their families," the text read.
The CTC called for maximizing productive reserves and strengthening the "socialist state enterprise," aiming for self-sufficiency and improving working conditions.
"With the contributions of everyone, especially the workers, we will advance in the programs that support the socio-economic transformation and development of the country, focused on meeting the needs of the people and improving working and salary conditions," the speech argued, in a context where salaries and pensions do not even suffice to purchase basic goods.
Despite the severe national crisis, with endless blackouts, shortages of food and essential products, and the collapse of basic services such as Health and Education, the regime continues to invest in mass rallies that serve to bolster the government.
Last year, the government boasted a strong popular support and claimed that about four million Cubans had attended the parade, despite the small number of people visibly present there.
Frequently Asked Questions about the May Day Parades in Cuba and the Economic Situation
Why does the Cuban regime hold massive parades for May Day?
The Cuban regime calls for massive parades on May Day as a demonstration of unity and resistance of the Cuban people against what they consider the hostility of the United States. Additionally, the government uses these events to blame the U.S. blockade for internal problems and to reaffirm its authority amid a severe economic and social crisis.
What criticisms does the Cuban government face regarding the organization of these parades?
The Cuban government is facing criticism for allocating significant resources to propaganda events such as the May Day parades, while the population suffers from food shortages, blackouts, and a collapse of basic services. This disconnect between the regime's priorities and the people's needs is causing frustration and outrage among citizens.
How does the economic crisis affect Cuban workers?
The economic crisis in Cuba has resulted in salaries and pensions not being sufficient to cover basic needs, and workers are facing prolonged blackouts, shortages of food, and essential products. Furthermore, the government continues to avoid implementing structural reforms that could alleviate the situation, prioritizing political propaganda over effective solutions.
What is the role of the Central de Trabajadores de Cuba (CTC) in the current labor situation on the island?
The Central Workers' Union of Cuba (CTC) is the only legal union in the country and is controlled by the Communist Party of Cuba. Its role is more focused on supporting the regime's narrative and blaming the U.S. blockade for economic difficulties than on truly representing workers and defending their labor rights.
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