According to a survey conducted by CiberCuba, a significant portion of voters, approximately 52%, believe that the United States should impose sanctions on Cuban performers who entertain on the island. The rationale is that these performances ultimately benefit the Havana regime.
The poll, which garnered over 3,480 votes in just seven hours, revealed a stark division among participants:
52%: "Yes, they should face consequences if they support the regime."
36%: "No, art should not be penalized."
9%: "It depends on the situation."
These results sparked a lively debate among users. One individual questioned why only artists are targeted while other professionals—such as athletes, Major League Baseball players, actors, or entrepreneurs doing business with the island—are not scrutinized. "It seems artists are singled out because they attract more attention on social media and lack legal protection," they argued.
Another participant opined, "Art should transcend politics and borders, but for that to happen, communists must abandon their double standards and stop using art as propaganda while blacklisting those with differing ideologies." A third person reminded others that the regime has consistently punished emigrated artists: "Equilibrium would only exist if Willy Chirino were allowed to perform in Cuba."
The public discussion on sanctions against Cuban artists was reignited following a request from Republican congressman Mario Díaz-Balart. He called on the U.S. Treasury Department to investigate reggaeton artists Dany Ome and Kevincito El 13 for their concerts on the island, suggesting these events might violate sanctions by generating revenue for the Cuban regime.
Controversy intensified when it was revealed that Raúl Guillermo Rodríguez Castro, nicknamed "El Cangrejo" and the grandson of Raúl Castro, attended one of these concerts. Díaz-Balart stated, "Sanctions could include fines, travel bans, and even revoking citizenship processes if there were omissions or falsehoods. There are videos, witnesses, and admissions from the regime itself that these concerts bolster their revenues."
The debate has resurfaced after Kevincito El 13 refuted rumors about alleged immigration restrictions. In an Instagram video, he clarified that the delay in his European tour is due to his naturalization process in the United States, not sanctions. "We have no legal or immigration issues," he insisted.
At present, the legal team for both artists has chosen not to issue official statements until the situation is thoroughly assessed, although a public announcement is anticipated soon. Meanwhile, the U.S. Treasury Department has yet to confirm whether it will launch a formal investigation. However, the case of Dany Ome and Kevincito El 13 has sparked renewed discussions about the intersection of art and politics and the impact of U.S. sanctions on Cuban cultural life.
Understanding U.S. Sanctions on Cuban Performers
Why do some Cubans support sanctions on artists performing in Cuba?
Many believe that these performances financially benefit the Cuban regime, which they view as oppressive. Sanctions are seen as a way to hold artists accountable for their perceived support of the government.
What are the potential consequences for artists if sanctions are imposed?
Sanctions could include fines, travel restrictions, or even the revocation of citizenship processes if there are proven discrepancies or false statements. These measures aim to deter artists from engaging in activities that may support the regime financially.
How has the Cuban community reacted to the idea of sanctioning artists?
The community is divided, with some supporting the sanctions as necessary for accountability, while others argue that art should remain free from political interference and that artists are unfairly targeted compared to other professionals.