The Cuban government prevented a singer from performing the national anthem at the U.S. Independence Day reception in Havana, while simultaneously launching a new wave of repression aimed at keeping journalists, activists, and political dissidents from attending the event hosted by the U.S. Embassy. Reports from opposition groups and human rights organizations indicate that the crackdown involved house arrests, arbitrary detentions, and police operations across several provinces, all designed to isolate dissenters and hinder any interaction with U.S. diplomats.
Notable figures caught up in this repression include Berta Soler, leader of the Damas de Blanco, who was detained; writer Ángel Santiesteban; journalist Camila Acosta; and doctor and activist Oscar Elías Biscet. In provinces such as Villa Clara, Pinar del Río, and Cienfuegos, opposition members reported being detained to prevent them from traveling to the capital. This comes amid escalating tensions between the governments of Cuba and the United States.
Authorities Pressure Singer to Cancel Performance
Repression extended into the cultural sphere, as demonstrated by a video posted on Facebook. The U.S. Embassy's chargé d'affaires in Cuba, Mike Hammer, revealed that a Cuban singer, whose name was not disclosed, was invited to perform the Bayamo anthem at the reception but was pressured by authorities not to attend. In response, Hammer asked attendees to improvise the Cuban national anthem, highlighting the unfortunate repression that thwarted even a symbolic act in a diplomatic setting.
Strategy to Isolate Dissidents
The Cuban regime appears to have intensified its efforts to block any interaction between dissidents and U.S. diplomats, aiming to silence critical voices and diminish the visibility of actions that showcase public discontent. These arrests and restrictions unfold as Cuba grapples with a profound economic and social crisis, fueling the regime's fear of new protests similar to those of July 11, 2021 (11J).
Understanding the Cuban Regime's Repression
Why did the Cuban government prevent the singer from performing?
The Cuban government blocked the singer to prevent any symbolic acts that could highlight dissent or encourage interaction with U.S. diplomats amid current political tensions.
What measures did the Cuban authorities use to suppress participation in the event?
The authorities employed house arrests, arbitrary detentions, and police operations to suppress participation and isolate dissidents from U.S. diplomats.