A group of alumni from Cuba's Instituto Superior de Arte (ISA) has publicly declared their unwavering support for university students spearheading protests and strikes across the island. These actions are in response to the exorbitant fees imposed by the state-run Telecommunications Company (ETECSA) and are a stand for the rights of the Cuban people.
In an open letter shared on Facebook this Wednesday, the graduates expressed deep admiration for the students' civic commitment. They hailed this new generation as a conscious and rebellious force, the rightful heirs of those who once raised their voices for social justice, freedom of thought, and citizens' dignity.
"We understand that speaking out in today's context demands courage, conviction, and a profound love for Cuba, its people, and justice," the letter states. The alumni believe that the acts of resistance emerging within Cuban universities show that these institutions are not only about producing professionals but also about fostering critical awareness, civic responsibility, and genuine commitment to the nation.
The graduates, including the filmmaker and photographer who published the post, expressed not only their support but also their desire to be actively involved: "We want to be part of this movement. We want to stand with you. How can we be most useful?" they ask, calling for unity and solidarity within and beyond Cuba's borders.
The letter ends with a powerful message: "Know that you are not alone. Inside and outside the country, we follow you. We move to the rhythm of your steps and share your dream of a more just, freer, and dignified Cuba."
This act of artistic and generational solidarity adds to a wave of statements against the newly imposed internet fees by ETECSA, widely rejected by academics, professors, students, artists, and ordinary citizens as an exclusive and deeply unfair measure amid the island's severe crisis.
Academic Dissent and Wider Reactions
The faculty of the Department of Sociology and Social Work at the University of Havana (UH) also expressed their dissatisfaction with the new tariffs in a public declaration, representing one of the strongest stances from a Cuban academic institution against recent state decisions.
In their statement released on Facebook, the faculty criticized the lack of public consultation before the decision was made, which they see as a lack of institutional sensitivity to the country's severe economic crisis. They warned that the price hikes not only affect students and workers but also deepen the inequality between urban and rural areas, where internet access was already limited and unequal.
The faculty highlighted the negative impact of these measures on academic life, research, teaching, and communication with more vulnerable communities. Furthermore, they emphasized that the new pricing policy does not reflect the will or the welfare of the Cuban people, but rather follows a logic detached from the social commitment expected from public institutions.
The declaration reinforces the call for citizen participation and criticism from academic spaces, defending the right to fair, accessible connectivity in line with the country's social realities.
Escalating Student Unrest
The mounting opposition to ETECSA's fee hikes has escalated to new levels of confrontation within the student movement itself. On June 3rd, the Faculty of Philosophy, History, Sociology, and Social Work (FEU-FHS) at the University of Havana issued an unprecedented statement demanding the immediate resignation of the national president of the Federation of University Students (FEU), Ricardo Rodríguez González. They argue that he has failed to represent student interests amid the current crisis.
Students also criticized the lack of clear responses from company executives following a meeting with university authorities and demanded either a full reversal of the measures or, at the very least, the removal of the 360 CUP monthly recharge limit.
Despite the positions of various faculties, the UH released an official statement asserting that it would not allow interruptions to its educational processes, clearly referring to the academic strike called by students from the Faculty of Mathematics and Computing. The university reaffirmed its unconditional support for the Communist Party of Cuba (PCC).
"Nothing and no one will interrupt our educational processes with calls that are completely alien to the spirit that has animated exchanges with student and youth organizations. The University of Havana does not waver in its revolutionary essence and in its mission to support the Communist Party of Cuba and the Government," the statement declared.
The conflict has gone beyond mere access to technology and has become an open struggle for youth representation in Cuba. In a country where youth have historically been used as a pillar of political legitimacy, the challenge to the FEU leadership is unprecedented.
For the first time in years, students from a prestigious faculty like Humanities are publicly demanding the resignation of their top representative, who is also a member of the Council of State presided over by Miguel Díaz-Canel.
As more faculties join the opposition to the fee hikes and critical voices grow within and outside the University of Havana, the national leadership of the FEU faces an unprecedented crisis of authority and trust.
The future of this confrontation remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: the new generation of students is determined to defend their rights and their voice, even if it means challenging those who have so far spoken in their name with words dictated by the regime's authoritarian power.
Frequently Asked Questions About Student Protests in Cuba
Why are ISA alumni supporting student protests in Cuba?
ISA alumni are supporting student protests to stand against the high fees imposed by ETECSA and to advocate for the rights of the Cuban people. They see the students as a new generation committed to social justice and civic responsibility.
What actions have students taken in response to the new tariffs?
Students have organized protests and strikes, and they have demanded the resignation of the FEU president for failing to represent their interests. They have called for a reversal of the tariffs or the removal of the recharge limit.
How has the University of Havana responded to the protests?
The University of Havana has stated that it will not allow interruptions to its educational processes and has reaffirmed its support for the Communist Party of Cuba, despite the protests and calls for change from the student body.