Actor Alejandro Cuervo has responded assertively to the backlash he faced following his visit to Miami, questioning why individuals who remained silent in Cuba now expect him to speak out. In a lengthy interview with Univision 23 journalist Javier Díaz, Cuervo expressed frustration over the controversy his arrival in the United States has sparked, and questioned why some emigrants demand him to say and do things they themselves did not dare while living in Cuba.
"Aren't we in the land of freedom? Why can't I, or anyone else, have a different perspective?" Cuervo argued, emphasizing his right to express himself without being attacked for differing views. He criticized the lack of dialogue in Cuba, highlighting the contradiction in expecting him to adopt a stance that many critics didn’t take when they had the chance.
Deflecting Criticism with Caution
During the interview, Cuervo was asked about the existence of political prisoners in Cuba. He replied, "In Cuba, certain things are clear. It's a question we all know the answer to. I'm aware of what has happened." His response was carefully non-committal, acknowledging the situation without directly addressing the issue of political prisoners, reflecting a strategy of avoidance.
This cautious tone is consistent with his overall approach, which avoids direct confrontations with the Cuban government. Cuervo seems to navigate his situation with a focus on personal and familial self-preservation. He argues that it's unfair for him to bear responsibilities that many critics did not assume themselves while in Cuba.
Prioritizing Personal Safety and Career
Cuervo made it clear that he values his freedom too much to risk it. "Why would you ask me to do something that could harm me?" he questioned, pointing out that some influencers criticize Cuban artists from the safety of exile, despite not confronting the system while they were in Cuba. He emphasized the necessity for some people to remain in Cuba, suggesting that not everyone can afford to take a stand.
He reiterated his commitment to his family and career, stating, "I am an artist who has done nothing else in life but work for my family because I love my job." Cuervo has no plans to make decisions that could potentially harm him.
Resisting External Pressures
Cuervo expressed discomfort with the pressure from some emigrants who, according to him, try to impose political stances on him. "In Cuba, no one tells me what to say. I know what I should and shouldn’t say because I understand where I live and how things work. Yet, upon arriving in the U.S., I'm met with demands: say it or you're an enemy," he stated.
Nevertheless, Cuervo insists he is unaffected by the criticism and has been warmly welcomed in Miami, where he has been seen enjoying social activities with friends. He shared images on social media of him boating, attending concerts, and celebrating with acquaintances.
Cuervo was also spotted at a concert of El Niño y La Verdad at the Flamingo Theater Bar, warmly received by fans, and seen in a video surrounded by friends, exchanging hugs and toasts.
He has no intention of emigrating and announced plans to return to Cuba soon. His visit to the United States, under a tourist visa, has reignited discussions about the public stance of artists residing in Cuba and the increased demands from the exiled community for political engagement.
Key Questions about Alejandro Cuervo's Stance
Why did Alejandro Cuervo visit Miami?
Alejandro Cuervo visited Miami with a tourist visa and was seen enjoying social activities with friends, despite facing criticism for his stance on political issues.
What was Alejandro Cuervo's response to questions about political prisoners in Cuba?
Cuervo acknowledged the situation in Cuba but avoided directly addressing the issue of political prisoners, reflecting a cautious approach.
How does Cuervo view the demands from the Cuban exile community?
Cuervo finds it unfair that expatriates expect him to take stances they didn't assume themselves, highlighting the pressure he faces to conform to certain political expectations.