Dalia Soto del Valle, the widow of former Cuban dictator Fidel Castro, made a rare public appearance this week at an event marking the anniversary of the book "Fidel and Religion" by Brazilian friar Frei Betto. Frei Betto is a known supporter of the Cuban regime. The event, covered by state-run Canal Caribe, served as a platform for a symbolic presentation of the book, which government-aligned media have touted as the first "biography" of the revolutionary leader published after 1959.
Religious representatives from various denominations, along with Frei Betto himself, attended the gathering. Betto praised the book's significance as a tool for fostering dialogue between believers and non-believers within the Cuban context. During the event, Betto highlighted his close personal relationship with Fidel Castro and reminisced about Castro's keen interest in the book's content, which was first released in May 1985 at the height of state atheism. Betto mentioned that Castro viewed the text as a collaborative creation between the two of them.
Soto del Valle, who has seldom been seen in public since Castro's passing in 2016, appeared quietly at the event, staying out of the spotlight and accompanied by the children she had with the dictator. Photos show her in a yellow blouse and dark hat, with a mask hanging around her neck, observing the proceedings with a serene expression.
"Fidel and Religion" is an extensive dialogue between the dictator and the Dominican friar, focusing on faith, ethics, and the role of religion in socialist Cuba. The book's publication marked a rhetorical shift in the regime's approach to religious sectors after decades of institutional repression, surveillance, and intolerance towards organized churches and beliefs.
The reissue of the book comes as the regime faces criticism from independent religious leaders. Priest Alberto Reyes has condemned the lack of freedoms and fundamental rights on the island, accusing the government of maintaining control through fear and deception. Additionally, the Christian Alliance of Cuba has reported a decline in rights and increased religious repression in the country.
There have also been reports of restrictions on public religious expressions, such as the censorship of processions during Holy Week. These actions are interpreted as attempts by the regime to limit religious freedom and control expressions of faith in Cuba.
Religious Freedom and Political Control in Cuba
What is the significance of the book "Fidel and Religion"?
"Fidel and Religion" is significant as it represents a shift in the Cuban regime's discourse regarding religion. The book, a dialogue between Fidel Castro and Frei Betto, addresses faith and ethics within socialist Cuba, marking a move towards engagement with religious sectors after years of repression.
Who is Frei Betto and what is his relationship with Fidel Castro?
Frei Betto is a Brazilian friar and writer known for his support of the Cuban regime. He had a close personal relationship with Fidel Castro and collaborated with him on the book "Fidel and Religion," which they both saw as a joint creation.