The family of Julia Amaya Hernández, a 61-year-old woman, is experiencing a distressing time following her disappearance this past Saturday in Havana. According to a social media post by her daughter-in-law, Lisaymi Hernández, Julia escaped from the psychiatric ward at Julio Trigo Hospital in Arroyo Naranjo, and her whereabouts remain unknown.
Julia was last seen wearing a white T-shirt, denim shorts, black sandals, and had a small hair clip in her hair, as detailed by Hernández in the Facebook group “Missing or Lost Persons in Havana.” Her family has shared several contact numbers, hoping for any information that might aid in their search: 54971291, 59276396, and 59276491.
Activists Urge Action for Missing Women in Cuba
Amidst the growing concern, independent journalist and activist Marta María Ramírez has urged the public to use the hashtag #AlertaYeniset. This initiative aims to raise awareness about missing women in Cuba and to pressure authorities to take responsibility. Ramírez emphasized the importance of filing an official police report and reminded everyone that since the incident occurred under state custody, the hospital is obligated to assist the family with the search.
"In response to reports of missing women, we as citizens can activate our alerts and demand that institutions fulfill their duties," reiterated the activist. Julia Amaya's case is one of several recent disappearances reported on the island, where families and communities are often forced to conduct their own searches due to a lack of official protocols.
Community Efforts Highlight Lack of State Support
Earlier in August, a missing elderly man in Sabanilla, Matanzas, was found alive after a five-day community search, while another 91-year-old man in Ciénaga de Zapata remains missing after a week without medication or food. Each new incident heightens social concern and public outcry over the absence of effective state channels, leaving families vulnerable and reliant on neighbors and social media to spread alerts and maintain hope.
Frequently Asked Questions About Missing Persons in Cuba
What actions can families take when a loved one goes missing in Cuba?
Families can report the disappearance to the police, utilize social media to spread awareness, and organize community searches. Activists also recommend using hashtags like #AlertaYeniset to draw attention to the case.
How can the community support families of missing persons in Cuba?
The community can support by participating in search efforts, sharing information on social media platforms, and providing emotional support to the affected families.
What is the role of the state in cases of missing persons?
The state is responsible for conducting official searches, assisting families, and ensuring effective protocols are in place to address such situations. However, the lack of action often forces families to rely on their communities.