The Cuban singer-songwriter Raúl Torres, known for his compositions dedicated to Fidel Castro and the Revolution, was responsible for entertaining the VI General Assembly of the National Association of the Deaf of Cuba (ANSOC) this Thursday.
The meeting was closed by Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez, who took the opportunity to promote the alleged humanist nature of his government and the State's efforts to integrate the deaf community into society.
During the event, the leader highlighted the recent legalization of Cuban sign language as a social achievement, the result of the active participation of the deaf community and various experts.
Neither the presidency of Cuba nor the state television mentioned Raúl Torres, but the images from the report broadcast by Televisión Cubana showed the artist performing his songs during the event.
Last week, Torres also took part in the celebrations for the 45th anniversary of the Cuban Association of People with Physical-Motor Disabilities (ACLIFIM).
The absence of his name in the official coverage this Thursday did not go unnoticed, especially after the controversy he was involved in earlier in March, when he expressed on his social media that he felt a profound disappointment upon visiting the Museum of Cuban Music and discovering that there was no reference to his work.
"Not a photo, not a memory, not a mention," lamented the musician, who recounted how one of the museum guides even asked him who he was.
Later, Torres stated that the Cuban government took note of his public complaint, and announced that efforts are being made to include aspects of his work in the museum, acknowledging his contributions to trova and his role as the regime's "official singer."
Raúl Torres' participation in an event for the deaf community has not gone unnoticed on social media, where many users see it as an attempt by the regime to make amends for a slight, while others criticize the irony that his music has been intended for an audience that cannot hear it well.
Frequently Asked Questions about Raúl Torres' Controversial Participation in an Event for the Deaf in Cuba
Why was Raúl Torres' participation in the ANSOC event controversial?
Raúl Torres's participation was seen as an attempt by the Cuban regime to make up for the slight against the musician, after he publicly complained about not being recognized at the Museum of Cuban Music. Additionally, the irony of a singer-songwriter performing at an event for the deaf generated criticism on social media.
What did Raúl Torres express about his omission from the Museum of Cuban Music?
Raúl Torres expressed his deep disappointment upon discovering that his work has no reference in the museum. He considered this omission a "hard blow" and was surprised that other musicians critical of the regime are indeed represented. This situation prompted him to reflect on his career and his position within Cuban culture.
How has the Cuban government responded to Raúl Torres' complaints?
The Cuban government has not made a specific public statement regarding Raúl Torres' complaints, but the singer-songwriter has mentioned that efforts are being made to include aspects of his work in the Museum of Cuban Music. This gesture is interpreted as a response to his public criticisms.
What criticisms has Raúl Torres received on social media regarding his relationship with the Cuban regime?
Raúl Torres has been criticized on social media for his loyalty to the Cuban regime, especially after publicly expressing his disappointment at not being recognized in the museum. Users have pointed out the irony of his situation, as his loyalty did not earn him the expected recognition. He has also faced criticism for his participation in official events that promote the regime's propaganda.
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