Javier Díaz Addresses Critics in Miami: "Get Ready, Interviewing Canel Is a Dream of Mine"

Cuban journalist Javier Díaz reiterates his unwavering commitment to the principles he upholds in his profession: advocating for freedom of expression, exposing authoritarianism, and exercising journalism without censorship or restrictions. In line with these values, he expressed that interviewing leader Miguel Díaz-Canel is a dream of his, as part of his duty to challenge and publicly scrutinize those in power.

In a Facebook post, Díaz extended his gratitude to CiberCuba for supporting him during his health struggles and for, as he put it, "publishing the truth about my career and work since I left Cuba." He declared, "I will always defend my country's freedom out of conviction, no matter the criticism I face. The greatest security I have is in my conscience, fighting for my people's freedom and against the Cuban dictatorship."

Addressing Criticism from Exiles

In response to criticisms from certain sectors of the Miami exile community, Díaz defended his right to interview anyone, regardless of ideology: "Interviewing a socialist, a communist, or someone who supports the Cuban government does not mean I am on their side. Be a bit more intelligent and think before making baseless judgments."

He also criticized a "small group" within the exile community for mirroring the authoritarian attitudes they claim to oppose. "Instead of seeking Cuba's freedom, they are becoming imitators of extremist dictators. We won't achieve our country's freedom this way," he warned.

Promoting Unity and Understanding

The journalist concluded by highlighting the fragmentation among the Cuban diaspora: "We are becoming more divided each day, and that's exactly what Cuban counterintelligence wants." In a recent post, Díaz sent a direct message to Cubans living in the United States, urging them to reflect on the true meaning of freedom: "Being free isn't just living in a free country," he wrote, cautioning that having lived under a dictatorship doesn't automatically lead to an understanding of democratic life.

He emphasized the necessity of a learning process for those who have lived under a totalitarian regime to responsibly embrace life in a free society. Díaz urged his fellow Cubans to break free from outdated doctrines and avoid falling prey to ideological manipulation under new guises: "Don't be a slave to old doctrines," he emphasized, underscoring that freedom starts from within.

Personal Challenges and Professional Dedication

"The Cuban dictatorship took so much from us... but we can't allow ourselves to be mentally enslaved after emigrating," Díaz wrote, reflecting on his personal journey of learning to appreciate and practice democracy genuinely.

Through his work at Univision, Díaz has skillfully narrated the most poignant and challenging stories of Cuban migration, earning the empathy of his compatriots while steadfastly denouncing the regime and exposing its leadership. The affection and support from his followers are evident in the numerous supportive messages he has received on social media following his disclosure of a painful lumbar hernia incident.

"Thank you for the many messages wishing me a speedy recovery. I didn't realize so many people would show support even though it's not too serious," Díaz expressed on Facebook. "I'm still in pain and having trouble walking, but resting at home and learning to manage this first crisis," he noted.