The Cuban government's official media has sparked controversy by calling on citizens to submit photos commemorating July 26, a date the regime continues to glorify despite the severe decline in living conditions on the island. "Send your photo to commemorate July 26," reads the message shared on social media by La Tira de los Lectores, a section of Cubadebate, which also provides the email address to submit images. The state-run portal claims the initiative aims to capture "how the day is celebrated in your community or closest environment" and plans to publish these photos on their website and social media on Sunday.
This proposal has ignited a wave of outrage among Cubans, who flooded the comments with criticism, sarcasm, and denunciations of the country's dire situation. Although the option to upload images is disabled in the comments section, no favorable opinions have been visible, highlighting a complete disconnect between the official narrative and the reality faced by the people.
"I'll send them a photo during a blackout. Cuba faces 26 hours of darkness. Nothing to celebrate," wrote one user. Another Cuban questioned, "Can I send a photo during a blackout? Or one of spoiled food?" highlighting the energy crisis and food shortages plaguing the population.
Other comments suggested sending images of overflowing trash bins, endless queues for basic services, and the sad faces of children unable to enjoy their vacations due to the lack of electricity. "I'll send a picture of my freezer, with three bottles of water that freeze and thaw whenever our president feels like it. In Cuba, only those Díaz-Canel wants get to drink cold water," another commenter sarcastically remarked.
These responses reveal widespread frustration with the regime's attempts to keep revolutionary propaganda alive while the material and emotional conditions of Cubans continue to deteriorate. Instead of festive images, Cubans seem prepared to showcase other scenes, such as over 30-hour blackouts, trash accumulating in the streets, the growing poverty among the elderly, and a collapsed basic services system.
"How dare they?" many repeat, with pent-up anger, at what they perceive as another attempt to mask the daily suffering of millions with a propagandistic facade that few believe anymore.
Understanding the Cuban Public's Reaction to July 26 Photo Call
Why are Cubans upset about the photo submission request?
Cubans are frustrated because the request to submit celebratory photos comes amidst severe living conditions, such as blackouts and food shortages, which they feel are being ignored by the regime's propaganda.
What alternative images do Cubans want to share?
Instead of celebratory photos, Cubans wish to share images depicting the harsh realities they face, such as long blackouts, overflowing garbage, and the insufficient access to basic needs.
How does this situation reflect on the Cuban regime?
The situation underscores a significant disconnect between the Cuban regime's portrayal of normalcy and the actual struggles faced by its citizens, highlighting the regime's attempts to maintain a facade of revolutionary success despite evident failures.