Univision journalist Javier Díaz has issued a powerful call to action for Cuban state media reporters, whom he accuses of being "direct accomplices" in supporting the Castro regime. Marking the fourth anniversary of the July 11, 2021 protests, Díaz reinforced his critical stance against these journalists, urging them to align with the truth before it’s too late.
In a video shared on Instagram, Díaz reiterated his message from four years ago, when the Cuban populace took to the streets in unprecedented numbers across major provinces and municipalities. He cautioned state media workers against hiding behind the excuse of "just doing their job," emphasizing that their role goes beyond merely reading from a teleprompter.
"Those currently employed in state media who present news or informational content are not just passive readers; they are deeply complicit with the Cuban dictatorship by perpetuating the regime's lies and propaganda to the nation," Díaz stated.
Díaz urged those within the official information system to make a choice: either distance themselves from the regime or prepare for the repercussions in a future free Cuba. "The wisest move is to find a way out of the country like others have, or stand on the side of truth and become an independent journalist on the Island. The day Cuba gains freedom, your allegiance will be judged accordingly," he warned.
He also accused some media figures of benefiting from the system, much like the generals and ministers within the Cuban government elite. Concluding his message, Díaz implored his colleagues to "gradually, through your role, raise your voice in support of Cuba's freedom."
This message from July 11, 2025 is not Díaz's first public appeal to his former colleagues. Back in late July 2021, he challenged Cuban television to explain why so many professionals were leaving the Island, not only in search of a better future but also for freedom. At that time, Díaz criticized the national newscast for discrediting journalists who now work independently or abroad, noting that the Cuban people can discern between truth and propaganda.
"It is an honor for me that my family and those in Cuba who know me remember my time on national television. But I also want an explanation for why a 26-year-old decided to leave his country, his career in Cuba, his family, and his friends to seek a better future elsewhere," he shared in another post.
Previously, Díaz addressed journalists Carlos Manuel Alonso, Humberto López, Oliver Zamora, Froilán Arencibia, and Talía González, urging them to take an ethical stand during this pivotal time in Cuba’s history. In one of his more controversial statements, he accused them of being "accomplices to murder" for their role in narratives that justify state repression during and after the 11J protests, including the denial of reports on violent arrests and abuses by special forces.
Once a familiar face on Cuban television, Díaz chose to work as an announcer rather than a journalist on the Island to avoid being part of the propaganda machinery. Since then, he has emerged as a prominent voice in the Cuban exile community, advocating for press freedom and human rights in Cuba.
Javier Díaz's Call to Action for Cuban Journalists: Key Questions
What message did Javier Díaz convey to Cuban state media journalists?
Javier Díaz urged Cuban state media journalists to align with the truth, warning them against being complicit in the regime's propaganda and highlighting the need for ethical choices as Cuba seeks freedom.
Why does Díaz criticize journalists working in Cuban state media?
Díaz criticizes these journalists for perpetuating the regime's lies and propaganda, arguing that their work makes them complicit in the dictatorship's efforts to misinform and control the Cuban population.
How has Díaz become a prominent voice in the Cuban exile community?
Díaz has emerged as a leading advocate for press freedom and human rights in Cuba, using his platform to challenge the state media's narratives and support independent journalism.