“The Cuban people, the only way they can be free... is by educating themselves”, said Daniel Ferrer, a 13-year-old young man born in the United States but with Cuban roots, during an interview with Los Pichy Boys.
Far from repeating empty slogans or clichéd phrases, Daniel issued a direct critique of the system and an urgent call to the Cuban people.
“The Cuban people, in my opinion, at the age of 13, are the only ones who can do it,” insisted the young person. “They are the only ones who can desire their freedom and take to the streets to demand it.”
Ferrer emphasized that the first step is to understand why one is fighting. "The most important thing you need to know is why you are fighting."
And it is at this point that his reflection was most critical. For Daniel, many Cubans have been forced to direct their anger towards immediate issues — food, electricity, transportation — but that is only part of the problem.
"They are not fighting for a piece of bread or a bit of electricity. They are not fighting for that. What they should be fighting for... is not just for themselves, because they will die and that will be the end of it. It's that their children, their grandchildren, all their future generations will continue to suffer until someone stands up and says 'enough'."
Hailing from Cuban parents, Daniel does not call for foreign intervention or magic solutions. His approach is clear: education, awareness, and collective courage. He states that this is not an individual or fleeting struggle, but rather an intergenerational cause.
“Not for themselves, but for their children, for their grandchildren, for their family,” he stated.
The message was received with applause by some and skepticism by others, particularly by those living in Cuba who feel that repression doesn't even allow them to breathe, let alone rebel.
In 2021, at just 10 years old, he took the microphone on a United Airlines flight from Virginia to Miami and amazed all the passengers with a brief but powerful speech about the situation in Cuba, while the island was still dealing with the aftermath of the historic protests of July 11th.
"Right now, the Cuban people are in the streets fighting for their liberation from communism... We can’t wait any longer; they have been suffering for 62 years," he said mid-flight, drawing spontaneous applause from the travelers.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Struggle for Freedom in Cuba and the Role of Daniel Ferrer
What is Daniel Ferrer's proposal to achieve freedom in Cuba?
Daniel Ferrer proposes that education, awareness, and collective courage are essential to achieve freedom in Cuba. He suggests that the population must understand why they are fighting, beyond immediate needs, and focus on an intergenerational change for the well-being of future generations.
What has been the response of the Cuban regime towards José Daniel Ferrer and his surroundings?
The Cuban regime has intensified repression against José Daniel Ferrer and his circle. This includes threats, detentions, and restrictions on Internet access. The repression also extends to his social environment, affecting those who provide services or collaborate with him.
What is the importance of unity for the Cuban opposition according to José Daniel Ferrer?
José Daniel Ferrer considers the unity of all Cubans, both inside and outside the island, crucial for confronting the regime and achieving freedom. He has called for a united front to channel popular discontent and to pressure the regime in pursuit of meaningful changes in Cuba.
What role does education play in the struggle for freedom in Cuba according to Daniel Ferrer?
Daniel Ferrer emphasizes that education is essential for Cubans to understand why they are fighting and to focus on long-term change. He argues that education should serve to raise awareness and collective courage, both crucial for the liberation of Cuba.
Filed under:
