Feminist platforms Alas Tensas and YoSíTeCreo in Cuba have revealed the identity of the nine-year-old girl tragically murdered on June 20 in her own home by a neighbor in Grito de Yara, located in Granma province, as Orlis Daniela Castillo Mayo. Heartbreakingly, this young victim was the daughter of Yusmila Mayo Ruiz, who herself was a victim of femicide in February 2024 in Las Tunas province.
The organizations emphasized the pervasive impact of femicidal violence on families, particularly in Cuban society where there is a lack of preventive measures and support from the state for indirect victims. They have called for "justice and restitution for the girl and her mother," underscoring the urgent need for systemic change.
According to these platforms, the crime, which has deeply shocked the nation, has been labeled as a social femicide due to its brutal nature and because it was committed by someone known to the victim. They assured that they will continue to gather more information on this devastating incident.
Orlis Daniela and her younger siblings discovered their mother's body after she was murdered by her partner on February 14 of the previous year. "This child's horrific story is not a mere tragedy or fate; it is the result of a fractured society and a femicidal state that refuses to safeguard the lives of women and girls," stated Alas Tensas and YoSíTeCreo in Cuba with stern condemnation.
The platforms are demanding genuine protection for Yusmila's surviving children (four remain) and all children in Cuba who have lost their mothers to femicide. They are also calling for support for families left to cope with numerous economic and logistical challenges in a country already in ruins. They concluded with a heartfelt wish for peace and justice for the young girl and her family.
As of the publication of this article, no additional details have emerged about the incident.
Horrific Crime Shocks Community
The dreadful crime took place on June 20 in the community of Grito de Yara, within the municipality of Río Cauto, Granma province, as echoed by the feminist platforms. The assailant, whose identity has not been disclosed, brutally killed the young girl for unknown reasons. He was apprehended shortly after by the Ministry of the Interior (MININT) forces, aided by local farmers when he attempted to flee.
Previously on social media, testimonies from individuals like Kim Barban revealed that the child was orphaned and living with her grandparents, who were struggling to provide adequate care. Despite warnings to the Education authorities about the need to place her in a children's home, no actions were taken.
Frequently Asked Questions About Femicide in Cuba
What is femicide and why is it a concern in Cuba?
Femicide refers to the killing of women or girls primarily because of their gender. It is a significant issue in Cuba due to systemic failures in protecting women and girls from gender-based violence and providing adequate support for victims and their families.
How are organizations like Alas Tensas and YoSíTeCreo advocating for change?
These organizations are advocating for change by raising awareness of gender-based violence, demanding justice and restitution for victims, and calling for systemic reforms to protect women and children. They emphasize the need for state accountability and improved support systems.