Amidst the rising discontent among Cuban university students over ETECSA's tariff hikes—leading to public protests, statements, and even a strike called by the Faculty of Mathematics at the University of Havana—a beloved and symbolic voice is resonating strongly once again: that of Cuban singer-songwriter Liuba María Hevia.
On Facebook, Liuba shared a video where she performs a snippet of "Que vivan los estudiantes," an iconic song by Chilean artist Violeta Parra. The chosen verse, "Que vivan los estudiantes, jardín de nuestra alegría. Son aves que no se asustan de animal ni policía, no le temen a las balas ni al ladrar de la jauría," is laden with commitment, highlighting the singer's support.
Although Liuba has not issued explicit statements regarding the matter, her gesture is widely seen as an emotional and cultural endorsement of the Cuban student cause. The feminist platform Alas Tensas emphasized on Facebook how the artist "once again stands up for Cuban culture in favor of the most vulnerable," by supporting the students with her song.
Hundreds have praised the troubadour's solidarity with students rallying against ETECSA's price surge. "Thank you, Liuba María. Thank you for siding with the young voices speaking for all of Cuba today," remarked journalist Mario J. Pentón. A supporter from Guantanamo expressed, "I expected nothing less from you, dear princess! Your voice and music are the best support." Another user added, "Thank you for standing by the students! For backing the voice of your people, which they try to silence more every day!"
Currently in Madrid, Liuba continues to project her voice across the distance. This is not the first time she has done so. Back in October 2024, during Cuba's severe energy crisis, she announced her withdrawal from social media until the island's electricity was restored, stating, "I will not return to social media until at least the lights are back on in my country," accompanying her words with an aerial image of Cuba cloaked in darkness.
In July 2021, following the historic July 11 protests, Liuba condemned the regime's repressive violence: "So much pain. I express my total disagreement with the use of force. All Cubans deserve to be heard; violence is not the way to defend any project," she wrote.
Liuba María Hevia, widely acclaimed for her musical work dedicated to children, has consistently demonstrated her commitment to the most sensitive sectors of Cuban society through her actions and words. This time, her song requires no direct proclamations to accompany; the choice of song and timing makes it a powerful symbol. Today, amidst the tension over ETECSA's tariffs and as young university students dare to raise their voices in Cuba, Violeta Parra's song reverberates with renewed vigor through the voice of an artist who remains connected to her roots from afar.
Liuba María Hevia's Influence on Cuban Student Movements
What song did Liuba María Hevia perform to support Cuban students?
Liuba María Hevia performed a snippet of "Que vivan los estudiantes," a song by Chilean artist Violeta Parra, to show her support for Cuban students.
How has Liuba María Hevia previously shown solidarity with Cuban issues?
In October 2024, she withdrew from social media during Cuba's energy crisis, and in July 2021, she condemned the regime's repressive violence after the July 11 protests.
Why is Liuba María Hevia's support for students significant?
Her support is significant because she is a respected cultural figure in Cuba, and her actions and words provide emotional and cultural backing to important social causes.