The head of the U.S. mission in Havana, Mike Hammer, starred in one of the most symbolic moments this weekend in Miami by taking the stage alongside Willy Chirino.
Hammer, who has become a beloved figure for thousands of Cubans, both inside and outside of Cuba, joined the iconic artist in chanting musical anthems of exile such as "They're Coming!" and "They Should Leave Now!" and called for a "free Cuba."
The scene took place during the 52nd annual gala of the Cuban American Bar Association (CABA), held on February 28, where Hammer received the first Humanitarian Award presented by the organization.
The event brought together members of the legal community and civic leaders from South Florida.
One of the most moving moments of the night came when the diplomat took the stage alongside Chirino.
Visibly excited, he chanted slogans of "Free Cuba!" while the audience responded with prolonged applause.
Hammer sang and danced with the band, and at several moments raised his hand to form an "L" with his fingers, calling for freedom for Cuba.
The scene elicited one of the most intense reactions of the night and concluded the evening with a pronounced political and emotional tone.
In social media, journalist Mario Vallejo highlighted the moment: “!!Unmissable!! Mike Hammer, Mission Chief of the U.S. in Havana, sang alongside Willy Chirino the song 'Ya viene llegando'. This was part of the reception for the first humanitarian award granted by the Cuban-American Association of Lawyers.”
The journalist Carlos Armando Cabrera, who covered the event for Diario Las Américas, described it as “emotional and full of positive energy,” and stated that it was “a moment of hope.”
A recognition with a political message
During his acceptance speech, Hammer dedicated the award "to all the everyday Cubans, to the dissidents, to the political prisoners, and to the independent press," and stated that the accolade reflected the importance of diplomatic work on the island.
"Support for the ordinary Cuban acknowledges the work and sacrifice of my colleagues at the American Embassy in Cuba," he stated, while affirming that Cuba "is a priority in the foreign relations agenda of the United States."
The diplomat stated that during his travels across the island, citizens are asking him for international visibility and affirmed that he will continue to visit communities as long as he receives requests.
In the final part of his speech, he made a categorical statement: “It’s not that change could happen, but that it will happen,” and added that “by 2026, Cuba will be free.”
Beyond the formal speeches, the defining image of the night was Hammer sharing a microphone with Willy Chirino and chanting "Free Cuba!" before an audience that responded with a standing ovation.
The combination of music, slogans, and political messaging turned the event into a public reaffirmation of support for the Cubans' longing for freedom, both on the island and abroad.
Filed under: