Cuban singer Leoni Torres has shared the harsh experiences he endured in Cuba for publicly supporting the widespread protests on July 11, 2021. In a candid conversation with host Jomari Goyso on his podcast "Sin Rodeo," Leoni revealed that while he never intended to leave his homeland, circumstances forced him to flee after the protests and his outspoken criticism of the regime led to severe reprisals against his family, including an assault on his son.
Reflecting on the day of the protests, Leoni recounted how he and his wife Yuliet felt a surge of hope, believing they were witnessing the end of the dictatorship. "We were nearly celebrating: 'this is the end,' all of us crying. We began to post, I went live with Yuliet where, together, we expressed our desire to choose our president, declaring we were fed up. It was a spontaneous push that drove us," he stated.
However, when the government's crackdown ensued and the status quo was restored, Leoni faced retaliation. His career opportunities vanished, and the media turned their backs on him. "Then my son was attacked on the street; he was with a friend, and they beat him, but he was the target," he lamented.
Further, the police stationed an alleged street vendor outside their home to monitor the family. "Fear started to creep in, work was scarce, and I told my wife: 'we have to leave.' That’s why I left first, unsure if I would see them again, because they were quite capable of saying: 'you’re not getting out of here,'" he explained.
On July 11, 2021, after Miguel Díaz-Canel appeared on television urging regime supporters to suppress the demonstrators, Leoni took to a live stream, cautioning the government against attacking the citizens. "All of Cuba is in the streets. It’s time to listen to your people! Don’t even think about harming a single Cuban!" he declared.
Days later, Leoni and Yuliet released a video condemning the unprovoked violence meted out by the repressive forces against the public. "You cannot suppress a people asking to be heard. Beating them is not the way. The government must listen; the people have every right to express what they reject, and leaders should respond to that call," the actress emphasized.
"We want a free Cuba," Leoni added. "Free from injustices for all Cubans. We are in Havana and have suffered greatly through all we are enduring. We want to elect our president," he concluded.
Understanding the July 11 Protests in Cuba
What triggered the July 11 protests in Cuba?
The July 11 protests were sparked by widespread dissatisfaction with the Cuban government's handling of economic hardships, food shortages, and the COVID-19 pandemic. Citizens took to the streets demanding freedom and government accountability.
How did the Cuban government respond to the protests?
The Cuban government responded with a heavy-handed crackdown, deploying security forces to suppress the protests. President Miguel Díaz-Canel called on supporters to defend the revolution, resulting in violent clashes and numerous arrests.
Why was Leoni Torres targeted by the Cuban regime?
Leoni Torres was targeted due to his public support for the protests and his vocal criticism of the regime. His actions were seen as a threat to the government's control, leading to reprisals against him and his family.