The U.S. Embassy in Cuba has once again extended an invitation to Cuban citizens interested in meeting with the head of the diplomatic mission, Mike Hammer. On Wednesday, the embassy reiterated through a post on the social media platform X that those who wish to engage can reach out via email at havanapublicaffairs@state.gov.
"Thank you for reaching out. We are thrilled with the number of invitations and have already contacted some of you. If you want a meeting with our Chief of Mission, please email havanapublicaffairs@state.gov. We continue to read your messages with great interest!" stated the embassy on its official account.
Hammer's Commitment to Dialogue
This invitation isn't new. Hammer previously showed his willingness to engage directly with citizens during a recent trip to the island, where he met with families of political prisoners, activists, and opposition figures. "I want to talk to anyone who wants to share their perspectives," he expressed in a video shot on the streets of Cuba.
During his tour of provinces such as Villa Clara, Hammer reaffirmed the United States' commitment to fundamental freedoms. He met with the families of prisoners Andy García Lorenzo and Aroni Yanko García, as well as with opposition leader Guillermo “Coco” Fariñas. “We join their call to release all political prisoners unjustly incarcerated,” he declared.
Escalating Tensions with the Cuban Regime
The embassy's reaffirmation of this message comes shortly after the Cuban regime escalated its crackdown on dissent. This includes the arrest of opposition figure José Daniel Ferrer and accusations from Deputy Foreign Minister Carlos Fernández de Cossío, who publicly accused Hammer of acting as an "activist" encouraging Cubans to oppose the regime.
Despite the mounting tension, the U.S. Embassy remains committed to engaging with the Cuban people. This approach aligns with the State Department’s campaign titled "¿Presos por qué?" which condemns arbitrary imprisonments on the island.
Meanwhile, the Cuban government continues to respond with confrontational rhetoric, arbitrary arrests, and harassment against those advocating for freedoms and rights amid a backdrop of systemic crisis and repression.
Engagement with U.S. Embassy in Cuba: Key Questions
How can Cuban citizens arrange a meeting with Mike Hammer?
Cuban citizens interested in meeting with Mike Hammer can send an email to havanapublicaffairs@state.gov to express their interest and arrange a meeting.
What is the purpose of Mike Hammer's meetings with Cuban citizens?
Mike Hammer is interested in engaging directly with Cuban citizens to understand their perspectives and discuss issues related to fundamental freedoms and political prisoners.