José Ramírez Pantoja, a journalist who faced detention in California in 2019 after crossing into the United States at the border, had been ousted from a radio station in Holguín. His expulsion followed the leak of a conversation with a deputy director of the state-run newspaper Granma, where it was suggested that Cuba could not withstand another protest like the 1994 Maleconazo without Fidel Castro. This past Monday, Ramírez Pantoja attended a citizenship ceremony in Chicago, where he officially became a U.S. citizen. "Thanks to the folks at UPEC who kicked me out. Without them, none of this would have been possible," he declared.
In a conversation with CiberCuba shortly after receiving his American citizenship, Ramírez Pantoja expressed his emotional state. "I'm overwhelmed. There are people who come to this country and everything falls into place easily for them. They walk right in without any trouble. I spent seven months in detention," he recounted. He took the opportunity to thank the "wonderful people" who participated in the crowdfunding effort that helped secure his release from a California detention center, where he was held upon entering the U.S. The funds raised covered legal services that facilitated his release. He also expressed gratitude to friends who consistently supported him.
"After all these years, since 2019, I've been bouncing around until now. This is a major achievement. Reaching this milestone represents a new level," he remarked, his voice trembling with emotion as he remembered his late parents amidst the joy of this occasion. For him, American citizenship is "a special ticket to freedom," particularly significant given the current climate of migration concerns in the United States.
Ramírez Pantoja also reflected on painful experiences, such as when a close acquaintance was compelled to hand him the letter of dismissal from the Holguín radio station. Although it was a distressing moment, he considers it a chapter he has moved past. He emphasizes having forgiven this person, advocating for such attitudes as essential for rebuilding the Cuban nation. He insists this is a crucial step towards a future democratic transition.
Moreover, he addressed what he perceives as the only viable solution to the dire situation in Cuba. In his view, without a widespread collective protest, change will not come to the island.
Insights into José Ramírez Pantoja's Journey
Why did José Ramírez Pantoja leave Cuba?
José Ramírez Pantoja left Cuba after being expelled from a radio station for disclosing a conversation critical of the Cuban government. He sought asylum in the United States due to the political repercussions he faced.
How did Ramírez Pantoja become a U.S. citizen?
After arriving in the United States and spending time in detention, José Ramírez Pantoja went through the legal process of seeking asylum. With the support of crowdfunding for legal assistance, he was eventually granted U.S. citizenship.
What does Ramírez Pantoja believe is necessary for change in Cuba?
Ramírez Pantoja believes that a massive and collective protest is necessary to bring about change in Cuba. He sees this as the only viable way to alter the current situation on the island.