On Friday, Cuban dissident Rosa María Payá issued a strong rebuttal to the Cuban regime's Foreign Minister, Bruno Rodríguez, following his verbal attack on Berta Soler, leader of the Damas de Blanco, who was recently honored with the 2025 Lech Wałęsa Solidarity Award.
“That order was disrupted over 70 years ago; neither Canel is a legitimate president nor are you a true foreign minister, and Cubans have never voted for communism. Seizing power does not equate to representing the people. In contrast, @bertasoler and the #DamasdeBlanco are already cemented in Cuban history for their fight for justice,” Payá stated on her X account.
The activist's response came after Rodríguez claimed that recognizing those who "undermine Cuba's constitutional order" is part of an alleged "corrupt and anti-Cuban agenda" led by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
Payá's comments followed the ceremony in Miami where Soler was awarded the Lech Wałęsa Solidarity Prize. The event was attended by Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
Though unable to attend in person due to restrictions from the Cuban regime, Soler participated virtually, expressing gratitude for the award and highlighting the internet blackout that left her isolated that morning. “Today, I cannot be there because of Cuba’s communist tyranny, which imposes a one-way exit condition that I do not accept, as I choose to remain in Cuba,” she proclaimed.
In her remarks, Rosa María Payá emphasized that the real honor belongs to the Damas de Blanco, who have led peaceful protests for the release of political prisoners for over two decades. Founded by Laura Pollán until her death in 2011, the group continues under Soler’s leadership despite ongoing detentions and harassment.
The Lech Wałęsa Solidarity Award, established in 2014, celebrates champions of democracy and human rights. Soler now joins the ranks of esteemed international activists who have received this accolade, which was reintroduced in 2024 after a hiatus.
Understanding the Struggle for Democracy in Cuba
Who is Rosa María Payá?
Rosa María Payá is a prominent Cuban dissident and activist known for her critical stance against the Cuban communist regime. She is an advocate for democracy and human rights in Cuba.
What is the Damas de Blanco?
The Damas de Blanco, or Ladies in White, is a Cuban human rights organization formed by female relatives of jailed dissidents. They are known for their peaceful marches demanding the release of political prisoners.
What is the significance of the Lech Wałęsa Solidarity Award?
The Lech Wałęsa Solidarity Award is a prestigious honor recognizing individuals and organizations that advocate for democracy and human rights. It is named after the Polish Nobel laureate and former president Lech Wałęsa.