Esteemed Cuban composer José María Vitier voiced his support on Tuesday for writer and comedian Jorge Fernández Era, following Fernández Era's report of a recent incident of harassment and unwarranted detention by State Security in Havana. "I can't find any justification, legal or ethical, for the treatment you describe. Whether we know each other personally is irrelevant. These things simply should not happen to anyone. The right to peacefully express opinions, as granted by law, should not be violated, especially not in the name of a Revolution. That is my humble opinion," Vitier expressed in response to the post made by the assaulted Cuban intellectual.
Vitier, a significant figure in contemporary Cuban music, adds considerable weight to the criticisms of the repression faced by dissenting voices on the island. His statement has resonated widely among artists and intellectuals. Writer Silvia Rodríguez Rivero also responded with a message of solidarity: "I am deeply pained by what I read in your post about the police violence you endured. We must all have the right to express our ideas and be respected for it. What you describe is unacceptable and has nothing to do with the revolutionary justice ethics that united this people for so many years," she stated.
In another comment, Fernández Era criticized his fellow journalists and writers for their silence in the face of injustice, highlighting the support he received from Vitier and Rodríguez Rivero: "Dear friends who read me and do nothing to stop the disgrace against me: aren't you ashamed that two Masters who don't know me personally would say the following?" he posted, referencing the statements of both personalities.
In his account, Fernández Era recounted being intercepted by police and State Security agents at the corner of Santa Emilia and Rabí, forcibly taken into a patrol car, and detained for more than six hours. He reported physical abuse, the confiscation of his ID card, and being accused of a supposed crime of "Resistance." He also presented evidence of the beating he endured, which left him with an injured hand and bloody clothing. Additionally, he was threatened with death by his captors. The writer, who had previously reported another assault in July, described the incidents as "a form of torture" and warned about the potential misuse of his missing document to fabricate charges against him.
Questions About José María Vitier's Stand Against State Repression
Who is José María Vitier?
José María Vitier is a renowned Cuban composer known for his work in contemporary music. He recently spoke out against the harassment of writer Jorge Fernández Era by State Security in Cuba.
What incident did Jorge Fernández Era report?
Jorge Fernández Era reported being intercepted by police and State Security, forcibly detained, physically abused, and accused of "Resistance" in Havana. He also shared evidence of the assault.
How did other Cuban intellectuals react to the incident?
Other Cuban intellectuals, including writer Silvia Rodríguez Rivero, expressed solidarity with Jorge Fernández Era and condemned the violence he experienced, highlighting the importance of free expression.