In a symbolic gesture marking the fourth anniversary of the protests on July 11, 2021, the mission chief of the United States Embassy in Cuba, Mike Hammer, met with Cardinal Juan de la Caridad García Rodríguez to discuss the social and economic crisis facing the Cuban people, as well as the situation of political prisoners.
During the meeting, Hammer expressed his "deep concern" about the detention conditions of several political prisoners, stating that "they should be released."
He also expressed gratitude for the efforts of the Catholic Church in assisting the most affected sectors during the crisis.
"We talked about the challenges the Church faces in helping the most vulnerable," the Embassy noted on its official X account (formerly Twitter), emphasizing that the United States' commitment to human rights in Cuba remains strong.
In commemoration of this anniversary, this week the diplomatic mission reaffirmed its support for the families of the imprisoned due to the peaceful protests of 2021.
"We recognize those who took to the streets with dignity and courage, demanding freedom and a better future. You are not alone," the Embassy wrote in another post.
Hammer also organized an event at his residence in Havana with dissidents, independent journalists, and families of the detainees.
Under strict security measures, a recorded message from the Secretary of State was projected, in which he described those present as "an inspiration for all who love freedom."
In January, the Cardinal of Havana stated that he was excluded from the negotiations between the regime and the Vatican for the release of more than 500 prisoners.
García Rodríguez then stated that he was not aware of those conversations; however, he himself had, on several occasions, requested the then Pope Francis to intervene for the release of political prisoners.
Frequently Asked Questions about the meeting between Mike Hammer and the Cardinal of Havana
What was the reason for the meeting between Mike Hammer and Cardinal Juan de la Caridad García Rodríguez?
The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the social and economic crisis in Cuba, as well as the situation of political prisoners on the island. During the meeting, Hammer expressed his concern about the detention conditions of several prisoners incarcerated for political reasons and reaffirmed the United States' commitment to human rights in Cuba.
What message did the U.S. Embassy convey on the anniversary of the 11J protests?
The U.S. Embassy reaffirmed its support for the families of political prisoners incarcerated following the protests on July 11, 2021. In a statement, they highlighted the courage and dignity of those who took to the streets demanding freedom and a better future, assuring them that they are not alone and that the United States will continue to advocate for their release.
What has the relationship between Mike Hammer and Cuban opponents been like?
Mike Hammer has maintained a close and supportive relationship with Cuban opponents. He has met with dissidents, independent journalists, and families of detainees, demonstrating his support for their causes and denouncing the repression by the Cuban regime. Hammer has been criticized by the Cuban government, but he remains steadfast in his commitment to promoting human rights.
What role does the Catholic Church play in the Cuban crisis according to the meeting?
The Catholic Church plays a crucial role in assisting the most affected sectors by the crisis in Cuba. During the meeting with the Cardinal, Hammer expressed gratitude for the Church's efforts in helping the most vulnerable and acknowledged the challenges it faces in its social and humanitarian work on the island.
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