Cuban singer-songwriter Willy Chirino extended a warm welcome in Miami this Tuesday to dissident José Daniel Ferrer, who was recently exiled by the Cuban regime. Chirino hailed Ferrer as "one of the true heroes in the fight for Cuba's freedom." In an emotional message shared on social media, the artist expressed, "Eager to see you in person, give you a hug, and thank you for all you have done and have yet to do for our people."
The post was accompanied by a photo of Ferrer making the "L" for liberty, a symbolic gesture of the Cuban opposition movement, and concluded with Chirino's message: “VCL!” (an abbreviation for "Viva Cuba Libre").
Rosa María Payá: “A Hero for All Cubans”
Chirino's message adds to the support Ferrer has received since arriving in the United States on Monday, welcomed by activists, family members, and representatives of the exile community. Activist Rosa María Payá also praised him as “a hero for all Cubans” during a conference at the Cuban American National Foundation (FNCA) headquarters in Miami.
“He is a free man, a hero to all Cubans. This exile will be short,” Payá declared, denouncing the regime's violations and emphasizing Ferrer's role as a witness to abuses against political prisoners in Cuba.
Ferrer’s First Message from Exile: “The Fight Continues with Renewed Strength”
On Tuesday, Ferrer published his first statement from Miami on his official Facebook page, expressing gratitude to everyone who facilitated his departure from Cuba, including the U.S. government, and reaffirmed his dedication to the cause of liberty. “The fight continues with renewed strength. We must come together and make our struggle for freedom very effective. We must topple the infamous and criminal tyranny, we must save Cuba,” he wrote.
Ferrer also highlighted the dangers he faced up until his departure from Cuba and sent a message to his fellow activists on the island, expressing his admiration and respect. “If we do what must be done, I'll be back soon, even if it means returning to the dungeons of tyranny, but assured of victory,” he asserted.
Upon arriving in Miami, Ferrer was honored by exile organizations with the Truman-Reagan Medal of Freedom, acknowledging his efforts in the fight against communism on the island.
Frequently Asked Questions About José Daniel Ferrer's Exile
Who is José Daniel Ferrer?
José Daniel Ferrer is a Cuban dissident known for his efforts in advocating for human rights and political freedom in Cuba. He has been a key figure in the opposition against the Cuban regime.
Why was José Daniel Ferrer exiled?
Ferrer was exiled by the Cuban regime due to his prominent role in opposing the government and advocating for democratic reforms and human rights in Cuba.
What is the significance of the "L" gesture?
The "L" gesture, representing "liberty," is a symbolic sign used by the Cuban opposition movement to signify their fight for freedom and democracy in Cuba.