The forced exile of José Daniel Ferrer, a prominent Cuban dissident, has sparked a wave of public support and solidarity from exiled figures, political representatives, and human rights organizations. On social media, Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar declared, "The dictator can exile, but he cannot silence the truth. Neither prisons nor exile can quiet a free man. Today, José Daniel Ferrer arrives in the land of freedom, but the battle for Cuba is just beginning."
Similarly, Congressman Carlos A. Giménez announced that Ferrer would be welcomed in Miami "as the hero he is," quoting José Martí: "Everything to the fire, even art, to feed the flames."
Artist and activist Yunior García Aguilera also expressed his respect and admiration for Ferrer, stating, "To José Daniel Ferrer, all our respect, admiration, and gratitude. Freedom for all political prisoners in Cuba, Venezuela, and Nicaragua!"
Human rights activist Rosa María Payá emphasized, "The dictatorship has forced José Daniel Ferrer and his family into exile. Let his oppressors make no mistake: this exile will be brief."
Cuban boxer Yordenis Ugás shared his support for the opposition leader, announcing he would personally welcome Ferrer at the airport. "I am going to welcome a hero, the bravest man in Cuba. From prison to exile, but with his head held high," he wrote on social media.
The Cuban Observatory of Human Rights (OCDH) reported that Ferrer was taken directly from Mar Verde prison to the Santiago de Cuba airport, under heavy escort by political police agents. "He was expelled from the country after years of imprisonment, torture, and isolation. The Cuban regime enacts yet another forced exile against one of its most visible opponents," the organization stated.
Artist Cuquita La Mora commented on Ferrer's exile to Miami with his family, writing, "Welcome to the land of freedom. #DownWithCommunism."
José Daniel Ferrer was compelled to leave the country after enduring years in prison under extreme repression. The Cuban regime kept him isolated for extended periods, systematically violating his fundamental rights. His departure was not a release, but a coerced exile meant to muffle his voice within Cuba.
However, the outpouring of support affirms that his cause remains vibrant. "Exile won't silence him," echoes among those welcoming him to freedom, confident that his struggle will persist from new fronts.
This Monday, Luis Enrique Ferrer García, brother of the opposition leader, urged Cubans in Miami to warmly welcome him. Shortly after Ferrer boarded the plane to Miami with his family, his brother invited Cubans to greet him at the D terminal of Miami International Airport, where he is expected to arrive around 1 p.m.
Support for José Daniel Ferrer's Exile
Why was José Daniel Ferrer exiled from Cuba?
José Daniel Ferrer was forced into exile as part of the Cuban regime's efforts to silence dissenting voices. His exile followed years of imprisonment, torture, and isolation, aimed at suppressing his opposition activities.
Who expressed support for José Daniel Ferrer?
Public figures such as Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar, Congressman Carlos A. Giménez, artist Yunior García Aguilera, activist Rosa María Payá, and boxer Yordenis Ugás have all shown solidarity with José Daniel Ferrer following his exile.
How was Ferrer received upon arriving in Miami?
José Daniel Ferrer was warmly welcomed in Miami as a hero by his supporters and the Cuban community, who recognize his bravery and ongoing fight for freedom.