The Cuban Jewish Community has leveled serious accusations against Mariela Castro Espín, director of the National Center for Sexual Education (CENESEX) and a figurehead of the Cuban regime. They have accused her of harboring antisemitic views and inciting hatred among Cubans following her inflammatory comments on state television.
In a detailed statement shared on Facebook, Cuban Jews labeled the remarks made by the "Deputy" during her appearance on the television program "Mesa Redonda Informativa" last Friday as "insulting." The statement explicitly criticized her for crossing a line, noting how her unchecked words displayed blatant antisemitism and extreme animosity, which not only showed profound disdain for Cuban Jews and Jews globally but also stirred hatred among the Cuban populace.
The Jewish community in Cuba expressed regret over the misuse of a widely viewed television platform to broadcast incoherent, offensive, and disrespectful opinions, which they viewed as an overt abuse of power. They emphasized that while advocating for Palestinian peace is important, it does not justify denigrating or attacking the people of Israel.
The statement referred to Castro Espín’s assertions that denied the existence of the Jewish people, suggesting that their victimhood was fabricated to justify territorial claims. During the program, she argued that while there is a Jewish religion, a Jewish people does not exist, a statement made in correction to moderator Randy Alonso’s mention of the Jewish people in connection with fascism.
Offended by Castro's remarks, the Cuban Jewish community promised a strong response. They questioned, "If Jews are not a people, why have they been persecuted by various nations for centuries since their expulsion from the Land of Israel by the Romans?"
They further challenged the notion that a brief television segment could deny a rich history of cultural heritage and collective memory spanning thousands of years. The community reaffirmed its dedication to respectful dialogue, peace among nations, and the defense of its history, culture, and dignity.
During her comments, Castro Espín, a member of Cuba's ruling family, claimed that Zionists "used biblical myths" to justify occupying Palestinian territories. She went on to allege that this "occupation" was later bolstered by "imperialism" led by the United Kingdom and subsequently the United States to maintain geopolitical control over the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea.
This is not the first time the Cuban Jewish Community has confronted Castro Espín over her public statements related to the Israel-Palestine conflict.
Understanding the Cuban Jewish Community's Concerns
What prompted the Cuban Jewish Community to accuse Mariela Castro of antisemitism?
The community accused Mariela Castro of antisemitism after her controversial comments on Cuban state television, where she reportedly denied the existence of the Jewish people and made remarks perceived as inciting hatred.
How did the Cuban Jewish Community react to Castro's statements?
The community expressed their indignation through a public statement, labeling her remarks as insulting and an abuse of power. They emphasized the importance of respectful dialogue and condemned her statements as damaging and irresponsible.
What historical context did the Cuban Jewish Community use to counter Castro's claims?
The community referred to the long history of Jewish persecution and cultural heritage, challenging Castro's denial of the Jewish people's existence and highlighting their historical significance and collective memory.