In a bold show of solidarity, over a hundred Cuban academics, artists, journalists, and intellectuals, both on and off the island, have publicly signed a letter supporting university students who have taken to the streets in protest. These students have demanded academic strikes in response to the controversial price increase by ETECSA, Cuba's state-run telecommunications monopoly. This decision has been met with widespread criticism as it requires payments in U.S. dollars for essential internet access, effectively severing the connection for countless individuals lacking foreign currency.
The statement, shared with CiberCuba by its authors, highlights that the young protestors are facing threats and reprisals from the Cuban regime. Among the signatories are notable figures from the academic, cultural, and media worlds, including professors from prestigious institutions such as Harvard, Stanford, CUNY, FIU, and El Colegio de México. The list also features activists and renowned artists like Tania Bruguera, Cirenaica Moreira, Geandy Pavón, and Juan Carlos Alom.
"Cuba is experiencing a catastrophic situation after 66 years of governmental oppression, extortion, and exile," the letter states. "This is not merely a matter of increased tariffs or a sudden hike in communication costs; it involves shifting the burden of a national public service to those in exile, who already provide for the basic needs of medicine and food for many on the island," the letter continues.
The authors condemn the "disproportionate" rate hikes and the regime's tactics to criminalize and silence dissent. "The Cuban student body has bravely raised its voice against this injustice, even calling for a nationwide university strike. This has made them targets of the regime's repressive machinery," the letter reads, drawing parallels to the July 11th protests and predicting similar persecution against today's youth.
The signatories urge the international community, both academic and beyond, to speak out in defense of Cuban university students and to denounce the Cuban government's oppressive actions.
CiberCuba has published the full text of the document, along with the signatories' names, to further amplify the call for international support.
Signatories include prominent figures like Achy Obejas, Adrián Morales Rodríguez, Ahmel Echevarría Peré, Alejandro Alonso from Brooklyn College, Alejandro de la Fuente from Harvard University, and many others from various prestigious institutions worldwide.
FAQs on Cuban Student Protests and ETECSA Price Hike
What sparked the recent student protests in Cuba?
The protests were ignited by ETECSA's decision to raise tariffs on internet services, requiring payments in U.S. dollars, which many Cubans find unaffordable.
Who are some of the notable figures supporting the students?
Renowned supporters include artists like Tania Bruguera and Cirenaica Moreira, as well as professors from Harvard, Stanford, and other major universities.
How has the Cuban government responded to the protests?
The regime has reportedly begun threatening and retaliating against protestors, attempting to stifle any expression of dissent.