The Cuban activist Rosa María Payá, a member of the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR), delivered an emotional speech during the press conference held at the National Cuban-American Foundation (FNCA) in Miami, in support of the opposition figure José Daniel Ferrer, banned from Cuba by the regime this Monday.
“José Daniel Ferrer is a free man, and saving himself has been his commitment to continue fighting against the tyranny that today has forced his family into exile,” stated Payá, who also denounced the regime's lies.
"No mistake us, the regime lies, lied before, and will continue to lie", he warned.
The director of the platform Cuba Decide praised the commitment of Ferrer to the cause of Cuba's freedom, highlighting that his arrival in exile represents a renewed boost for the opposition both inside and outside the island.
“José Daniel Ferrer is a hero for all Cubans. We have heard him here, we have heard his commitment to the cause of freedom, which is strengthened today by having him among us,” he expressed.
The activist also highlighted the role of the UNPACU leader as a witness to the systematic violations against political prisoners in Cuba.
"It is an undeniable witness to the barbarity against Cuban political prisoners," he stated.
In his remarks, he thanked everyone who helped ensure that Ferrer and his family arrived safe and sound in the United States.
“We are deeply grateful to the State Department, the Cuban American Foundation, and José Daniel's family, who have been trying day after day to save him as well,” he said.
"Now he is safe, he is with all of us and also alongside the Cuban opposition, both inside and outside the island, with one goal in mind: the change of the system towards democracy, the freedom of all political prisoners, and the freedom of all Cubans," he concluded.
Welcome to exile, José Daniel Ferrer. It’s going to be a short exile, I assure you of that,” Payá declared, reaffirming his commitment to the democratic cause on the island.
Previously, on her X profile, the activist stated: "The dictatorship has forced José Daniel Ferrer and his family into exile. Let his executioners not be mistaken: this exile will be short."
This Monday, Secretary of State Marco Rubio celebrated the arrival of José Daniel Ferrer in the U.S. following his exile, and demanded the release of over 700 political prisoners incarcerated in Cuba.
Frequently Asked Questions about José Daniel Ferrer and His Forced Exile
Why was José Daniel Ferrer exiled from Cuba?
José Daniel Ferrer was exiled from Cuba due to extreme pressures from the Cuban regime, which sought to silence his activism and protect his family from the threats and torture they faced. His exile is part of a strategy by the Cuban government to use opponents as bargaining chips in international negotiations.
What is Rosa María Payá's position on the exile of José Daniel Ferrer?
Rosa María Payá has expressed her strong support for José Daniel Ferrer, describing him as a "hero of all Cubans." She believes that Ferrer's exile represents an act of resistance and dignity, and reaffirms the commitment to the fight for Cuba's freedom, both inside and outside the island.
What recognitions has José Daniel Ferrer received in the United States?
Upon arriving in the United States, José Daniel Ferrer was awarded the Truman-Reagan Medal of Freedom, in recognition of his longstanding resistance against communism in Cuba and his defense of human rights. This acknowledgment symbolizes the warm welcome from the Cuban exile community to a fighter for freedom.
What role has the United States government played in the case of José Daniel Ferrer?
The United States government, through the State Department and figures such as Secretary Marco Rubio, has shown clear support for José Daniel Ferrer. They have condemned his imprisonment and torture, and have celebrated his arrival in the United States as a step toward freedom. The United States remains committed to supporting the Cuban people in their pursuit of freedom and democracy.
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