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The current Miss Universe Cuba 2025, Lina Luaces, joined on July 11th to commemorate the anti-government protests that occurred in Cuba in 2021, the social upheaval that marked a turning point for thousands of Cubans both inside and outside the island.
From her Instagram account, Luaces shared a photograph wrapped in the Cuban flag along with an emotional statement in Spanish and English, in which she remembered the courage of the Cubans who raised their voices that day against the regime on the island.
“I wasn’t born on the island, but the island was born in me. I grew up hearing stories that can’t fit in books: of the heat that burns but also embraces, of fear disguised as silence, of the hope that never faded,” she begins to say.
On that day, July 11, my people shouted what many have kept silent for decades. They shouted for those who cannot, for those who have left, for those who still dream of returning. My blood carries their scars, their music, their strength. Even though the sea separates us, my heart marches with you,” the young woman assured.
Lina Luaces, daughter of Cuban presenter Lili Estefan and niece of Emilio and Gloria Estefan, two artists who have been paradigms within the Cuban exile community, concluded her message with a powerful phrase: "It is not forgotten. It does not remain silent. Homeland and Life. Always."
Despite having been criticized for receiving the crown to represent Cuba in the international Miss Universe 2025 pageant without having been born on the island, she today aligns herself with the shared sentiment of many Cubans both within and outside the country, reaffirming her connection to her roots and her people's struggle.
Her post has generated supportive reactions among users, who appreciate her committed stance on the memory of a key day in Cuba's recent history.
Frequently Asked Questions about Lina Luaces and the Commemoration of 11J in Cuba
How has Lina Luaces participated in the commemoration of 11J in Cuba?
Lina Luaces joined the commemoration of 11J by sharing an emotional post on Instagram, in which she is wrapped in the Cuban flag and expresses her solidarity with the Cubans who protested in 2021 against the regime on the island. Although she was not born in Cuba, Luaces emphasizes her connection to her Cuban roots and her commitment to the memory of this historic day.
Why has Lina Luaces been criticized for representing Cuba in Miss Universe 2025?
Lina Luaces has faced criticism for representing Cuba in Miss Universe 2025 because she was not born on the island. Despite this, Luaces has stated that she feels more Cuban than American, as she grew up with Cuban customs and values. Her selection as a representative has generated both support and controversy, given her family ties to figures in the Cuban entertainment industry in exile.
What is Lina Luaces's relationship with figures of the Cuban exile community?
Lina Luaces is the daughter of Lili Estefan and the niece of Emilio and Gloria Estefan, who are prominent figures in the Cuban exile community. They have supported her unconditionally on her journey as Miss Universe Cuba 2025, highlighting their pride in her achievements and her connection to her Cuban roots.
What is the meaning of the phrase "Patria y Vida" mentioned by Lina Luaces?
The phrase "Patria y Vida" has become a symbol of resistance and hope for many Cubans who oppose the socialist regime in Cuba. This expression, popularized by a song of the same name, has been used by protesters and figures in exile to demand freedom and change in the country. By mentioning it, Lina Luaces reaffirms her support for the struggle for freedom in Cuba.
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