Susana Pérez, a renowned Cuban actress, has delivered a powerful message of solidarity to university students on the island who have recently led demonstrations against ETECSA's price hikes. Through a video shared on her social media platforms, Pérez directly addressed the youth, urging them not to be paralyzed by fear or the worn-out narratives of the Cuban regime. She emphasized, "Young people, this is the moment, there is no other. It doesn't matter what sparked it—whether it's the internet, power outages, hunger, necessity, street garbage, or mosquitoes. The spark can be anything, but it's in your hands, in your hands. Remember, all processes, even the one we're complaining about so much, began at the university, started with young people like you."
In her heartfelt message, Pérez clearly called on the youth not to wait for those who have upheld the regime's failures for decades to take action. "Don't expect the older generations, those who have dedicated their lives and refuse to admit they have failed, to do what you can do. This is the time, don't waste it. Don't be intimidated, don't be convinced by obsolete speeches, speeches we've been hearing for 66 years. This is the time, there is no other, and I support you," she concluded.
Rising Student Protests Against ETECSA's Price Increases
Susana Pérez's statements come amid growing social unrest in Cuba. University students from several faculties and universities across the nation have strongly opposed the increased prices of mobile data packages announced by ETECSA, even calling for a teaching strike to assert their demands. The price hikes, with costs exceeding even a minimum wage, limits on balance recharges, and the dollarization of these services that practically force dependence on foreign top-ups, have dealt a direct blow to the entire Cuban population, especially the youth and the most vulnerable sectors.
Regime's Response: Denial and Threats
The Cuban regime's response has been typical: evasive towards legitimate claims and repressive towards those who voice their dissent. State media and official spokespeople remain silent, downplaying the protests' reach or dismissing them as false, orchestrated by media campaigns while maintaining a triumphalist discourse of support for the regime.
Simultaneously, there has been an increase in reports of threats against students from university officials and the State Security.
Understanding the Impact of ETECSA's Price Hikes
What sparked the recent protests by university students in Cuba?
The protests were sparked by ETECSA's announcement of increased prices for mobile data packages, which have become unaffordable for many, especially impacting the youth and vulnerable sectors.
How has the Cuban regime responded to these protests?
The regime has responded with denial and threats, avoiding addressing legitimate claims and repressing those who protest, while state media downplay or dismiss the protests as orchestrated by media campaigns.