Related videos:
The singer Israel Rojas sent a welcome message to the “compatriots” Cuban beneficiaries of the humanitarian parole who are at risk of deportation following the Trump Administration's announcement to revoke that immigration program.
"Here we are, ready to welcome you with open arms", Rojas noted in a post on Facebook where he promised to welcome them with his songs.
“At least I will do it with music that reflects both our lights and our shadows as a nation. Music that tries to bring a bit of joy to the hearts of those who enjoy what I do,” he explained.
Without losing the favorite catchphrase of the regime, the member of the duo Buena Fe referred to Cubans who "departed in search of a way out of the crisis, a crisis caused, primarily, by the economic, commercial, and financial war that the government of the United States has imposed on the Cuban people."
Next, Israel Rojas subtly reproached the silence of artists who spoke out when it came to criticizing the Cuban authorities but now remain silent regarding the actions of the U.S. government.
"What I find truly incredible is the silence of those artists and intellectuals who, at one time, were extremely critical of the undeniable deficiencies and mistakes of the Cuban authorities. Many of them, now in 'lands of freedom,' seemed ungrateful and selectively forgetful of the benefits that Cuba allowed them to achieve," he reproached.
Rojas then spoke about masks that fall away and "euphemisms that are laid bare."
"Neither the 'independent' press is truly independent, nor do those who 'flee from communism' fit into the 'American dream,' and it is evident that the blockade does exist, and with the policies of intensification, we all lose, while parasitic politicians benefit from the suffering of the majority... now there is a deafening silence," he stated.
In the final part of his statement, the singer questioned that group of artists and intellectuals that he believes have been silenced: “Do they no longer have the courage to get involved in this mess? Do they not see that fostering a relationship of respect and good neighborliness is a guarantee of a good life and peace for both nations? Or is it that they know the negative consequences of their rebellions, the truly horrible ones, will be felt over there and not here?”
“Only time will tell. Live to see”, he concluded.
Beyond the dark and ambiguous second part of the text by Israel Rojas, the excerpt that has generated hundreds of reactions since its publication is the warm welcome and clear song that the singer has promised to potential deportees.
Israel Rojas's message has been received overwhelmingly negatively by internet users. Most consider it cynical, hypocritical, and even insulting to Cubans at risk of deportation.
"What that seems to be is a threat of torture"; "The punishment is twofold: they deport you and on top of that, Mala Fe awaits you with their music"; "I would rather jump out of the plane than listen to Buena Fe at the airport"; "If Dante were to rise again, he would rewrite The Divine Comedy and add this level to Purgatory," some internet users pointed out with sarcasm and mockery.
“That script is from Villa Marista S.A.”, declared another commenter.
Others emphasized the clear contempt that the music and persona of Israel Rojas represent for them, calling him "shameless" or urging him to be more concerned about being on a list of repressors.
“La música de Buena Fe creates hunger, sadness, and a desire to cry”; “That quiet guy looks more attractive when he speaks”; "Your music is not needed, they have enough already; "Mala Fe is the icing on the cake of the return to hell", others pointed out.
Amidst mockery, sharp criticism, and indignation, most internet users have interpreted his message as a gesture disconnected from the harsh reality faced by potential deportees.
Amid a scenario characterized by the migration crisis and the polarization of the diaspora, the musician's offer has been perceived by many as a painful irony, more akin to opportunism than to genuine empathy.
Regarding the second and enigmatic reproach to silenced artists on the other side... almost no one has weighed in. The promise of open arms is too frightening.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Declaration of Israel Rojas and the Situation of Cubans with Humanitarian Parole
What message did Israel Rojas send to Cubans at risk of deportation?
Israel Rojas sent a welcoming message to the Cuban beneficiaries of humanitarian parole who are at risk of deportation, stating that he would welcome them with open arms and his music. However, his message was met with negative reactions from internet users, who found it cynical and insensitive.
How does Israel Rojas justify the crisis in Cuba?
Israel Rojas blames the "American Empire" for the economic crisis and the Cuban exodus, noting that the economic measures imposed by the United States aim to deindustrialize and suffocate the Cuban people. This stance has been criticized by those who believe that the Cuban government uses these sanctions as an excuse for its own failures.
What impact does the revocation of humanitarian parole have on Cubans in the U.S.?
The revocation of the humanitarian parole affects thousands of Cubans who entered the United States under this program, leaving them at risk of deportation if they have not applied for a immigration benefit or defined their status. It is estimated that about 26,000 Cubans could be left legally unprotected following the announcement of the revocation.
How has the Cuban community reacted to the statements made by Israel Rojas?
The Cuban community has reacted negatively to the statements made by Israel Rojas, labeling them as cynical and insensitive. Many internet users have expressed their dissatisfaction, considering that the singer's message is disconnected from the harsh reality faced by those who may be deported.
Filed under:
