Amarilys Núñez, a prominent Cuban actress now residing in Miami, has joined the growing wave of social support for the student protests in Cuba against the latest price hike by ETECSA. The state-run telecom monopoly's decision to increase and dollarize basic communication services has left many young people on the island disconnected, with no viable alternatives.
"I feel immense pride for these young people who are raising their voices, not just for themselves, but also for our elders, our professionals, and for justice!" Núñez declared. Her statement was made in response to a post by the feminist platform Alas Tensas, marking yet another show of support from influential figures in the arts and culture sector.
Alas Tensas emphasized the need for public figures like Núñez to break the silence and stand with those courageously speaking out. "Students should not be left alone," the platform wrote on Facebook. This backing comes amid a surge of declarations and solidarity actions towards university students, who have recently been engaging in discussions, public statements, and calls for faculty strikes across various institutions in the country.
Artists Break the Silence
The support from Amarilys Núñez adds to the powerful message delivered by fellow Cuban actress Susana Pérez a few days earlier. Speaking from exile, Pérez urged young people not to succumb to fear or outdated rhetoric. "Do not let them intimidate you, do not be swayed by obsolete speeches. This is the moment, there is no other. All processes of change began at the university," Pérez reminded, highlighting the historic role of students as agents of transformation in Cuba.
The statements from both artists reverberate amid increasing social unrest, with service charges far exceeding the monthly minimum wage, restrictions on balance recharges, and a forced reliance on foreign remittances for connectivity.
Government Responds with Silence and Threats
The regime's reaction has been predictable: denial, stigmatization, and repression. While official media have either ignored or downplayed the protests, reports have surfaced of students being threatened by university officials and state security, echoing the repressive tactics seen after the July 11, 2021 protests.
In the face of this reality, the voices of students are not just personal acts of courage but a collective message: the silence is beginning to break.
Student Protests and ETECSA Price Hike FAQs
What prompted the student protests in Cuba?
The protests were triggered by ETECSA's decision to increase service prices and require payment in foreign currency, affecting students' access to communication services.
How have public figures responded to the protests?
Public figures like Amarilys Núñez and Susana Pérez have publicly supported the students, calling for solidarity and encouraging them to continue speaking out.
What has been the government's response to the protests?
The Cuban government has largely ignored the protests, resorting to threats and intimidation against students, reminiscent of past repressive measures.