Father Alberto Reyes Pías, born in Camagüey on May 26, 1967, recently shared his thoughts in an interview with CiberCuba, answering questions via video despite the challenging communication conditions in Cuba. During this nearly 27-minute conversation, the priest from the Esmeralda region advocates for a peaceful transition in Cuba, urging Diaz-Canel's regime to step down and allow Cubans to reclaim their freedom and nation. He also discusses overcoming fear of repression and the learned helplessness many experience, expressing concern over the possibility of a violent uprising on the island.
Overcoming Fear and the Role of the Church
In response to a question about the regime's control through fear and lies, Father Alberto emphasizes that fear is a natural, spontaneous reaction and cannot be completely eradicated as long as a repressive government remains in power. Instead, he suggests acting despite fear, advocating for peaceful resistance and expression of truth, even if it comes with consequences.
The Catholic Church, according to Father Alberto, should focus on preaching and defending the truth, encouraging individuals to find strength in their relationship with Jesus Christ. This spiritual anchor can help break through the paralysis fear often causes, empowering individuals to face challenges with courage.
The Roots of Fear in Cuban Society
The pervasive fear in Cuba, Father Alberto explains, stems from the early days of the revolution, marked by imprisonment and executions for dissenters. This has instilled a deep-seated fear across generations, reinforced by continuous and brutal repression. The societal belief that change is impossible only strengthens this fear.
Despite this, Father Alberto believes that individuals can learn to defend their rights and desires, working through and above their fears. He acknowledges that fear is also present within the Church, as its members are part of the same society. However, the Church offers tools through the Gospel and faith to help overcome these fears and grow in inner freedom.
Paths to Change and the Role of Protest
Father Alberto asserts that the Cuban revolution has failed to provide a prosperous future for its citizens, advocating for the regime to step down as the most honest course of action. He encourages Cubans not to support or participate in anything that sustains the current system and to express their desires and frustrations openly, including through peaceful protests.
While he does not support violence, Father Alberto believes in the right to protest and would join his fellow Cubans in demanding systemic change and freedom. He acknowledges the potential for governmental retaliation but emphasizes the importance of being true to one's conscience and speaking out for truth and justice.
Humanitarian Concerns and Community Support
Father Alberto is deeply troubled by the sight of elderly Cubans scavenging for food, a stark indicator of the country's dire situation and the erosion of personal dignity. He believes that with proper coordination, Cubans can help those in need through donations of food and medicine, emphasizing the importance of community support.
The Risk of Martyrdom and Staying True to Convictions
Despite the risk of persecution like that faced by clergy in Nicaragua, Father Alberto remains focused on living one day at a time, staying true to his conscience and the teachings he received in seminary. He stresses that every action has a price, and he is willing to pay the price of being true to his beliefs and speaking out against injustice.
A Call for Dialogue and Peaceful Transition
Father Alberto calls for a peaceful transition in Cuba, fearing that without change, the nation could face a violent outburst due to the government's oppressive actions. He urges the regime to step aside, allowing for national dialogue and a peaceful path to democracy for the benefit of all Cubans.
Addressing Cuba's Political Crisis: Key Insights
How does Father Alberto Reyes propose to overcome fear in Cuba?
Father Alberto suggests acting despite fear, advocating for peaceful resistance and expression of truth, even if it comes with consequences. He emphasizes the role of the Catholic Church in preaching truth and encouraging individuals to find strength in their relationship with Jesus Christ.
What are the roots of fear in Cuban society, according to Father Alberto?
The fear originates from the early revolutionary tactics of imprisonment and executions, instilling a deep-seated fear across generations, coupled with continuous and brutal repression. The societal belief that change is impossible further strengthens this fear.
What role does Father Alberto see for protests in Cuba's path to change?
Father Alberto supports peaceful protests as a means for Cubans to demand systemic change and freedom. He believes in the right to protest and would join his fellow Cubans in these efforts, emphasizing the importance of being true to one's conscience and speaking out for truth and justice.