On Friday, Miguel Díaz-Canel, the Cuban leader, declared that Cuba remains "strong" as the nation marks the fourth anniversary of the significant social upheaval on July 11, 2021—the largest public protest against the regime in over sixty years. "Cuba remains strong because we are a people who know how to fight; because we embody the spirit of the cimarrones and mambises; because we are the children of a Revolution forged with intelligence and courage," he wrote on his X account.
The statement was accompanied by an image of the José Martí sculpture positioned at the Anti-Imperialist Platform across from the U.S. Embassy in Havana. Created by sculptor Andrés González, this artwork depicts the National Hero holding his child while gesturing towards the diplomatic mission, serving as a symbolic critique of the U.S. government.
On July 11, 2021, thousands of Cubans took to the streets in over 40 cities, chanting "Freedom!" and "Homeland and Life!" as they peacefully demanded an end to the dictatorship. The Cuban government dismissed the legitimacy of these widespread protests, claiming they were orchestrated by the United States. Nevertheless, it was an unprecedented day of civic courage that ended with violent repression following Díaz-Canel's national television statement, "The combat order is given."
This command initiated a wave of repression across the nation. Cubans clashed with fellow citizens, leading to the incarceration of thousands of young individuals for their political beliefs, many of whom are still serving lengthy prison sentences on the island.
On the fourth anniversary of the July 11 protests, the government urged its institutions to post messages of political reaffirmation on social media using the hashtag #CubaEstáFirme. However, many Cubans strongly believe that the regime is growing weaker by the day, with its end potentially closer than ever before.
In exile, the Cuban community commemorates the date with peaceful demonstrations. This Friday, activists from the Movement Actions for Democracy will honor July 11 with an event at Santo Domingo Square in Madrid, running from noon until 9:00 p.m.
Understanding the July 11 Protests in Cuba
What sparked the July 11 protests in Cuba?
The July 11 protests were initiated as thousands of Cubans took to the streets to demand freedom and the end of the dictatorship, marking the largest protest against the regime in over sixty years.
How did the Cuban government respond to the protests?
The government dismissed the legitimacy of the protests, claiming they were organized by the United States, and responded with violent repression, resulting in the arrest of many protestors.
What actions are taken by Cubans in exile to commemorate July 11?
Cubans in exile honor the anniversary with peaceful demonstrations, such as the event organized by the Movement Actions for Democracy in Madrid.