The young Cuban deputy Elián González stated in an interview with the television network teleSUR that the greatest privilege of his life is being recognized as "Fidel's boy," a confession that reaffirms his role as a propaganda symbol of the Cuban regime more than two decades after his return to the island.
During a conversation with journalist Rolando Segura, González recalled his closeness to the dictator Fidel Castro (1926-2016), whom he described as a kind of “affectionate grandfather” who accompanied him in games and activities without imposing any demands.
He assured that he never received pressure from the former leader, but he considered the affection and attention he received a privilege.
"I believe that the fact that Fidel visited me, that Fidel publicly called me his friend, I think that was already a privilege," González stated when the interviewer asked him if he had any kind of privilege due to his closeness to Fidel Castro.
And he added: "I believe that many privileges come as a result of that, which is that anywhere you are in Cuba, people approach you and say, ‘the friend of Fidel, Fidel's boy,’ treating you with affection because they see you as someone close to Fidel. I think that is the greatest privilege this friendship has given me."
González, 31, expressed regret for being too young to fully benefit from those meetings with Castro. He emphasized that even in their last conversation, he sought academic guidance from the Cuban leader, although Castro refrained from influencing his decision.
In June, marking 25 years since his return to Cuba following an international custody dispute, González stated that he does not regret staying in his country, despite the current challenges.
Similarly, paid tribute to Castro, the man who, in his words, saved him, raised him, looked after him, and apparently also sent him cartoons on tapes.
The scene took place at the Fidel Castro Ruz Center, in the space "With Its Own Light," where Elián appeared holding hands with his young daughter, closing the loop of a perfectly woven and almost surreal narrative.
In a country in crisis, where the official memory is upheld by acts of worship rather than historical debate, Elián represents the perfect continuity: the rescued child, transformed into an exemplary adult within the ideological mold, paying tribute to the eternal leader without a crack, without a question, without a doubt.
The young deputy has also expressed gratitude to the government program Mesa Redonda of Cuban television for shaping him into the person he is, describing the official television program as “the pillar” that helped solidify his cause and shape his character.
According to his words, the broadcast was crucial in shaping his family life and political commitment.
His statements reinforce the official narrative that has portrayed him for years as the standard bearer of the Cuban revolution, keeping alive the story of his rescue and repatriation as a victory of Castroism over the United States.
His loyalty to the regime and the exaltation of Fidel Castro demonstrate the continuity of a discourse that continues to use him as a political symbol.
The case of Elián González was a turning point in relations between the United States and Cuba, triggering a diplomatic crisis between the two countries.
The legal and political battle for his custody marked a turning point in bilateral relations, generating tensions and polarization within the Cuban-American community.
Frequently Asked Questions about Elián González and His Relationship with Fidel Castro
Why does Elián González consider it a privilege to be called "Fidel's boy"?
Elián González considers it a privilege to be called "Fidel's child" because he feels he was treated with special attention and affection by Fidel Castro. In various interviews, Elián has stated that his closeness to Castro granted him a special status in Cuba, where he is recognized and treated with warmth as a figure close to the Cuban leader.
How has Fidel Castro influenced Elián González's life?
Fidel Castro influenced Elián González's life by providing academic and emotional guidance. Elián has mentioned that Castro was like a grandfather to him, involved in his education and personal development, which has strengthened his commitment to the ideals of the Cuban revolution.
What role does Elián González play in the propaganda of the Cuban regime?
Elián González plays a symbolic role in the propaganda of the Cuban regime as an emblem of the revolution. His story of rescue and repatriation is used by the Cuban government to highlight a victory over the United States, and Elián continues to express his loyalty to the regime, keeping alive the narrative of his connection with Fidel Castro.
What does Elián González think about his life in Cuba and the current difficulties in the country?
Elián González states that he does not regret living in Cuba despite the current difficulties. He has declared that his commitment to the Cuban people and his loyalty to Fidel Castro are unwavering, and that his teachings have helped him confront the challenges posed by the current crisis on the island.
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