U.S. Embassy Chief in Cuba: "Justice, Freedom, and Democracy are the Rights of the Cuban People"

During a meeting in the capital with activists, opposition figures, and families of political prisoners, Mike Hammer, the head of the U.S. Mission in Havana, reaffirmed the United States' commitment to human rights in Cuba. This event also marked the official introduction of the new Deputy Chief of Mission, Roy Perrin, who will serve as the embassy's second-in-command.

"We hope that justice, freedom, and democracy will soon come to the Cuban people," Hammer stated in a speech praising the courage of the families of more than a thousand political prisoners still detained on the island. "We must always remember them. I know it is very difficult for them, but know that we are always here to support you," he emphasized.

According to a report by CubaNet, the diplomat expressed that the purpose of the gathering was to better understand everyone involved. "To remain committed, to work together with determination to make the dreams and aspirations of the Cuban people come true: freedom, respect for human rights, and the ability to express themselves without fear," he detailed.

Event Highlighted by Civil Society and Dissidence

The reception brought together a broad representation of independent civil society. Attendees included the leader of the Ladies in White, Berta Soler, her husband and former political prisoner Ángel Moya, independent journalists Henry Constantín and Reinaldo Escobar, and parents of prisoners from the July 11 protests, Jenny Taboada and Wilber Aguilar. Private entrepreneurs, artists, religious leaders, accredited foreign press representatives, and diplomats from other countries also participated.

Hammer remarked on the presence of "so many friends," noting that unlike previous occasions, the State Security did not prevent guests from attending, as had happened during the July 4th celebration. Although plainclothes agents were observed around the residence, there was no harassment. Inside, U.S. security measures were heightened.

Welcoming Roy Perrin to Havana

The central purpose of the gathering was to welcome the new Deputy Chief of Mission, Roy Perrin, who arrived from Honduras, where he served as Chargé d'Affaires at the U.S. Embassy in Tegucigalpa. Perrin, a native of New Orleans, Louisiana, shared cultural references with attendees to highlight the historical ties between his city and Cuba.

"Cuban music helped create jazz, which was born in my city. We also share similar cuisine: in New Orleans, we eat red beans with rice every Monday, though I know you prefer black beans. Our cities have a similar rhythm; we know how to celebrate life and face tough times, like hurricanes," he remarked. "I am thrilled to be here. They say Cubans have big hearts and a strong desire for a better future. I am eager to meet all of you," he concluded.

With over two decades in the Foreign Service, Perrin has held positions in Turkey, Costa Rica, Iraq, Venezuela, China, and the Office of Central American Affairs in Washington. An engineer and lawyer by training, he is married and has a daughter.

Commitment to Democracy in Cuba

Since assuming his role in November 2024, Hammer has actively supported Cuban civil society. The official reiterated that U.S. policy will continue to focus on defending human rights, freedom of expression, and solidarity with the families of political prisoners. "The Cuban people deserve to live in democracy as we do in the United States," he affirmed, making it clear that Washington will persist in advocating for the release of those imprisoned for political reasons and supporting the island's aspirations for change.