On the occasion of the 123rd anniversary of the founding of the Republic of Cuba, Marco Rubio, the U.S. Secretary of State, released a statement on Tuesday addressed to the Cuban people. Rubio, the son of Cuban immigrants, expressed unwavering support and solidarity with the island's citizens, lauding those who have stood against repression. He reiterated the United States' commitment to a free and democratic Cuba.
In his official remarks, Rubio condemned the Cuban government as an "illegitimate regime" and praised the courage of those who have resisted oppression: "On Cuba's Independence Day, I wish to convey my steadfast support and solidarity with the Cuban people. I commend everyone who has risen against more than six decades of brutal repression, censorship, and human rights violations by the illegitimate Cuban regime," he stated. "Your relentless advocacy for a free, democratic, and prosperous Cuba remains a beacon of hope and resilience for the world. Today, we honor your sacrifice, bravery, and perseverance,” he added.
Rubio reinforced his message on the social media platform X, severely criticizing the current regime. "The malice and cowardice of the Cuban regime know no bounds. On Cuba's Independence Day, we honor the sacrifice, bravery, and resilience of all those who have stood against this brutal regime," he wrote. This statement has been widely circulated and praised within the Cuban American community, who have appreciated the clarity and forcefulness of the high-ranking U.S. official's words.
Support from Congress: Carlos Giménez Joins the Message
Cuban-American Congressman Carlos Giménez, who was born on the island, echoed the commemorative sentiments. In response to Rubio's post on X, he expressed his gratitude. "Thank you, @SecRubio, for your leadership and lifelong work in denouncing the brutality of the pathetic dictatorship in #Cuba. Cuba will be free!" he wrote.
Beyond a ceremonial gesture, Giménez used the opportunity to make a clear demand from the U.S. legislative power. "From the United States Congress, we demand the immediate and unconditional release of all political prisoners unjustly incarcerated in the dungeons of Cuba's murderous dictatorship," he declared in another post on X.
The congressman also reflected on Cuba's independence history and its relevance today. "Forged by decades of armed resistance against Spain and with the help of our American brothers, Cuba thrived as an innovative and prosperous society. Our mission is for it to be so once again," he noted. His statements frame May 20 not only as a historical date but as a renewed commitment to the foundational values of the Cuban nation, currently silenced by a regime that, according to both politicians, holds the people's fundamental freedoms hostage.
"The Cuban people deserve to enjoy the same freedoms, opportunities, and prosperity that should be shared across the Western Hemisphere. Today we remember their persistent fight for true independence," published the Office of Western Hemisphere Affairs.
123 Years Later: A Commemoration of Struggle and Hope
This year, the celebration of Cuba's Independence Day comes amidst renewed international attention on the island's human rights situation. Marco Rubio's words not only recall the foundational act of 1902 but also highlight the ongoing struggle of Cubans who face censorship, repression, and imprisonment for political reasons.
By emphasizing that the cause of a "free, democratic, and prosperous Cuba" remains a "beacon of hope and resistance for the world," the U.S. Secretary of State articulates a historical continuity narrative between the glorious past of independence and the current aspirations for freedom.
Understanding Cuba's Current Struggle for Freedom
Why does Marco Rubio emphasize solidarity with the Cuban people?
Marco Rubio, with his Cuban heritage, emphasizes solidarity to support the Cuban people's struggle against a regime he views as illegitimate, highlighting their courage in advocating for democracy and human rights.
What role does Carlos Giménez play in supporting Cuba's freedom?
Carlos Giménez, as a Cuban-American congressman, amplifies the call for Cuba's freedom by demanding the release of political prisoners and recalling the island's historical fight for independence.
How does the U.S. government view the Cuban regime?
The U.S. government, through statements by officials like Marco Rubio, views the Cuban regime as illegitimate and oppressive, criticizing its long-standing human rights abuses.