Cuban rapper Eliécer Márquez Duany, known as El Funky, might be on the brink of deportation from the United States, as he revealed himself. In a social media post, he stated that he has "30 days to leave the country or face deportation."
In his message, El Funky reached out to his "Cuban brothers who are aware of his anti-communist journey" and urged U.S. congress members to support him during this critical time. El Funky, renowned for his role in the song "Patria y Vida," arrived in the U.S. three years ago initially to attend the 2021 Latin Grammy Awards ceremony, where the song—an anthem for Cuban freedom—was nominated in two categories: Song of the Year and Best Urban Song.
Upon his arrival in Miami, El Funky told local media that State Security escorted him to the plane and hinted he might not be allowed entry upon his return. “I'm in Miami, yes, and the question some have is 'were you allowed to leave?' No, the question is whether you can come back in! But now understand that my focus is on Maykel Castillo Pérez (El Osorbo), my brother, and I will do everything possible to support his freedom as well as all unjustly imprisoned," El Funky wrote on Facebook at the time.
Artistic Activism and Political Persecution
While in Cuba, El Funky was targeted by the regime due to his connections with Osorbo and the opposition group Movimiento San Isidro. Last March, he released the track "Paro Nacional" in conjunction with protests that erupted on March 17 in Santiago de Cuba and spread to other parts of the country.
Moreover, in May 2023, he debuted the song "Warrior," dedicated to political prisoners and victims of communism, recounting his life experiences in Cuba and remembering his friends Osorbo and Luis Manuel Otero Alcántara. In the song's music video, the artist reaffirms his critical stance toward the Cuban regime.
Support and Concerns from Activists
Cuban activist Amelia Calzadilla responded to El Funky's predicament, questioning how a "proven activist" and "easy target for the dictatorship" could face such a process. Calzadilla warned that El Funky's return to Cuba would lead to "harassment, political persecution, discredit, unemployment, and a real risk of imprisonment for exercising his right to civic and peaceful protest." She called for sharing his message in an effort to reverse the process.
FAQs on El Funky's Deportation Situation
Why is El Funky facing deportation from the United States?
El Funky is facing deportation due to immigration issues, having received a notice stating he has 30 days to leave the country or be deported.
What significance does "Patria y Vida" have for El Funky?
"Patria y Vida" is a song that became an anthem for freedom in Cuba, and El Funky was one of the artists involved in its creation, symbolizing his anti-regime stance.
How has El Funky been involved in political activism?
El Funky has been involved in political activism through his music, collaborating with opposition movements and releasing songs that criticize the Cuban regime and support political prisoners.