A park bench located at the intersection of 3rd and Paseo in El Vedado was discovered on Friday morning with two of its legs broken off, lying overturned on the grass. This incident marks another episode in the wave of vandalism that has been troubling the city. The images, shared by Enrique Durán Luis on the Facebook group "El Vedado de Hoy," came with a strong message: "This is a tragic wound in its structure. And in the spirit of El Vedado as well. The crisis shouldn't be an excuse for neglect and mistreatment."
Durán highlighted that just days ago, authorities had repainted all the benches across the 13 parks stretching from 3rd Street to Zapata, as part of a beautification initiative now met with systematic destruction. "This isn't an isolated incident, nor are these the only parks in Havana to suffer such damage," he noted.
According to local residents, the old benches—larger and able to accommodate entire families—were replaced years ago with smaller versions. However, the benches at 3rd and Paseo had been restored for community enjoyment until disorder and neglect reduced them to wooden debris.
Community Outcry Over Vandalism
In the comments section, numerous users echoed the local frustration. "There's no law or order in Cuba," one user flatly stated, condemning the lack of authority. "And where was the police?" a woman inquired, recalling the former presence of patrols in the area. "This kind of vandalism isn't done in two minutes."
Another resident lamented, "Back when I was young, no one would even think to do such a thing. Where are we headed?" "Crime has gained ground: buses, parks, robberies... what is being done?" questioned a third.
These voices mirror the growing discontent: "I can't understand these fools who only harm the everyday Cuban. The people in power don't visit the parks," added a woman from Havana.
Widespread Damage Across Havana
The incident with the bench at 3rd and Paseo is not unique. Social media users pointed out other critical areas in the city. Near G and 5th, even in the vicinity of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, marble benches have been broken despite the presence of guards and cameras, with no intervention. In Lennon Park, most seats have been destroyed or even stolen, and at G and Malecón, not a single marble bench remains intact.
Further from El Vedado, in Buttari Park in the Lawton neighborhood, Diez de Octubre municipality, authorities had to permanently remove a fence and reconstruct it with masonry because the peerless fence and benches were vandalized daily.
Beyond Physical Damage: The Impact on Social Fabric
For Durán and many residents, the harm extends beyond the loss of wood or metal. The real injury is to the city's spirit, its intangible values, and its history. "We all suffer the consequences of vandalism, negligence, disorder, and indifference," he emphasized. "Economic hardships shouldn't conflict with responsibility and discipline. The pain of these parks should be everyone's concern," he added.
The call to authorities is clear: without effective patrolling and exemplary penalties, vandalism will continue to erode the urban heritage and, with it, the morale of Havana's residents.
Addressing Vandalism in Havana's Parks
What actions have been taken to prevent vandalism in Havana's parks?
Authorities have repainted benches and attempted beautification projects, but effective patrol and enforcement measures seem lacking, leading to continued vandalism.
How has the community responded to the vandalism in El Vedado?
Community members have expressed significant frustration and concern, calling for more effective law enforcement and lamenting the cultural and social impact of the vandalism.
Are there other areas in Havana experiencing similar issues?
Yes, vandalism has been reported in several other areas, including parks near the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Lennon Park, indicating a widespread problem across the city.