Diplomats from the U.S. Embassy meet with the family of Sayli and Félix Navarro

Diplomats from the United States Embassy in Cuba met with the wife and mother of political prisoners Félix and Sayli Navarro, respectively, as confirmed by the consular mission on its Facebook account.

They also interviewed Iván Hernández Carrión and Asunción Carrión Hernández, in Perico, Matanzas province.

During the meeting, the diplomats expressed the strong support of the United States for the family and reiterated the demand for the release of Félix, Sayli Navarro, and all political prisoners.

"We continue to insist that they and all political prisoners be released," wrote the embassy.

The embassy's statement details that this meeting is part of diplomatic efforts in Cuba.

The diplomatic mission, headed by Mike Hammer, the current Chargé d'Affaires, has promoted a "street diplomacy" by traveling through provinces in Cuba to meet directly with everyday Cubans, families, activists, religious leaders (such as the bishop of Camagüey), and opposition figures.

In the meetings, officials have listened to concerns about human rights and aspirations for a better Cuba, while also challenging acts of repudiation organized by the Cuban regime, which include harassment in streets and cities.

Sayli Navarro Álvarez and Félix Navarro Rodríguez are father and daughter, prominent Cuban political dissidents and prisoners held in connection with the protests of July 11, 2021 (11J) in Perico, Matanzas.

Félix, 72 years old, is a veteran dissident, leader and coordinator of the Party for Democracy Pedro Luis Boitel, briefly released in January 2025 after nine years of sentencing for "attack," "public disorder," and "disobedience" (including time from the Black Spring of 2003).

He was re-incarcerated in April 2025 for alleged violations of parole. He has supported families of political prisoners and denounced abuses, suffering health issues while in prison.

Sayli, an independent journalist and a former member of the Ladies in White for over 10 years, was sentenced to eight years for "assault" and "public disorder"; she remains imprisoned despite rejecting exile offered in exchange for her freedom, and was nominated for the International Courage Award in 2023.

She was detained a day after 11J while inquiring about imprisoned protesters at a police station.