Several Cuban-American congress members in the United States took the opportunity on May 20, the date marking the establishment of the Republic of Cuba in 1902, to publicly express their support for the Cuban people and condemn the communist regime that has ruled the island for more than sixty years.
The congresswoman María Elvira Salazar was direct in her message posted on social media platform X and expressed her desire for "the brutal communist regime to fall."
"This date marks the birth of an independent Cuban republic, a dream that once became a reality. My hope is that the communist regime falls and that the promise of a free and prosperous Cuba is restored," he stated.
The representative Mario Díaz-Balart also joined on X in the statements, reminding that, although Cuba achieved its independence from Spain 123 years ago, today “the Cuban people are still oppressed under a brutal murderous dictatorship that does not respect human and fundamental rights.”
In his message, he denounced the imprisonment of opposition members such as José Daniel Ferrer, Félix Navarro, Maykel “Osorbo” Castillo Pérez, and Luis Manuel Otero Alcántara, emphasizing that the spirit of the Cuban people "has not been broken."
"This day belongs to the Cuban people, and from the United States, we continue to demonstrate our unwavering support for their struggle for freedom and democracy. The Cuban people will be free, and they will remember those who stood by their side," he concluded.
For his part, Congressman Carlos Giménez, also born in Cuba, recalled on X that the republic was forged after decades of armed resistance against Spain and with the support of the United States.
"Cuba thrived as an innovative and prosperous society. Our mission is to make it that way again," she stated.
In another post, he was emphatic: “From the Congress of the United States, we demand the immediate and unconditional release of all political prisoners unjustly imprisoned in the dungeons of the murderous dictatorship in Cuba. Enough with the impunity!”
The messages from the legislators reaffirm the commitment of the political exile in the United States to the cause of freedom in Cuba, and highlight their support for those inside and outside the country who continue to fight for the end of the dictatorship and the return to a democratic system.
Also on Tuesday, the U.S. Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, issued a press release addressed to the Cuban people on the occasion of the 123rd anniversary of the founding of the Republic of Cuba, which is commemorated on May 20th.
Rubio, who is the son of Cuban parents, expressed his support and solidarity with the people of the island, as well as admiration for those who have risen up against repression.
At the same time, he reiterated the U.S. government's commitment to a free and democratic Cuba.
Meanwhile, in Cuba, independent journalist Camila Acosta reported this Tuesday that she was under arbitrary police surveillance at her home, in yet another act of systematic harassment against critical voices of the regime in Havana.
“Today I have police surveillance outside my house. There are six people: a patrol with two uniformed officers, three women dressed in civilian clothes (from the group known as Las Marianas, responsible for repressing female opponents), and at least one State Security officer in civilian clothing, hiding on the corner,” Acosta wrote on Facebook.
Frequently asked questions about Cuba's Independence Day and the support from Cuban-American congress members
What stance do Cuban-American congress members take on the Cuban regime?
The Cuban-American congress members condemn the Cuban communist regime and support the fight for freedom in Cuba. María Elvira Salazar, Mario Díaz-Balart, and Carlos Giménez have expressed their desire for the regime to fall and for a free and prosperous Cuba to be restored. Additionally, they demand the release of political prisoners and denounce the human rights violations committed by the Cuban government.
Who are some of the Cuban political prisoners mentioned by the congress members?
Among the Cuban political prisoners mentioned by the congress members are José Daniel Ferrer, Félix Navarro, Maykel “Osorbo” Castillo Pérez, and Luis Manuel Otero Alcántara. These opponents have been imprisoned for their pro-democracy activities and are considered prisoners of conscience by international organizations.
What actions are Congress members taking to support Cubans with I-220A in the United States?
Congress members are advocating for a legal solution for Cubans with I-220A, who find themselves in a migratory limbo in the United States. María Elvira Salazar has expressed her support for the group and has urged the Department of Homeland Security not to detain more Cubans under this status, aiming to secure them regular migratory status.
What significance does May 20 hold for Cuba and Cuban Americans?
May 20th is significant because it marks the founding of the Republic of Cuba in 1902. For Cuban Americans, this date represents a symbol of freedom and independence that contrasts with the current situation in Cuba under a communist regime. It is an opportunity to renew their support for the struggle for democracy and human rights on the island.
What role have media outlets like Radio and TV Martí played in the fight against the Cuban regime?
Radio and TV Martí have been fundamental in countering the propaganda of the Cuban regime and providing uncensored information to the Cuban people. María Elvira Salazar has emphasized their importance as tools of freedom and truth, especially amid the censorship imposed by the Cuban government.
Filed under: