The Head of the U.S. Mission in Cuba, Mike Hammer, attended a commemorative mass on Tuesday marking the 100th anniversary of Celia Cruz's birth. The event took place at the Parish of Our Lady of Charity of El Cobre in Central Havana, drawing artists, diplomats, and admirers who paid tribute to the Queen of Salsa, an iconic figure of Cuban culture and a symbol of freedom for millions.
The diplomat expressed to the media that it was "an honor to acknowledge Celia Cruz, a remarkable Cuban figure who made significant contributions not only to the United States but to humanity as a whole. Her wish was to see a free Cuba, a wish we share." The U.S. Embassy in Havana shared images of the event on social media with the hashtags "#Azúcar #100YearsWithCelia," highlighting the historical nature of the tribute.
Among the attendees were singers Haila Mompié and Alain Pérez, as well as reggaeton artist Yomil Hidalgo. They joined a gathering that blended faith, music, and memory, as captured in photos by journalist Wilfredo Cancio Isla. "Glory to Celia, of Cuba and the world," Cancio, an expert on Celia's life and work, wrote in his post, capturing the collective sentiment of those present.
Held under the theme "United for Celia," the mass unfolded in a respectful and emotional atmosphere, despite the political tensions surrounding her legacy. Since her exile in 1960 and her vocal support for Cuban freedom, Celia Cruz has been erased from official Cuban media.
The religious event came shortly after the controversial cancellation of an artistic gala in her honor, organized by Teatro El Público and the Cuban Art Factory (FAC), which was abruptly called off by the National Center for Popular Music. In response, the FAC staged a symbolic gesture: an empty chair illuminated on stage with the message "Celia Lives." This same spirit filled the Charity temple, where devotees and artists chanted her name and called for a "more just and free" Cuba.
Celia Cruz, who passed away in 2003 in exile without returning to her homeland, remains a beloved figure among Cubans both on the island and abroad. Her voice, synonymous with joy, resilience, and Afro-Caribbean identity, overcame borders and censorship. A century after her birth, her cry of "¡Azúcar!" continues to resonate as a symbol of national identity.
Key Questions About Celia Cruz's Legacy
Why is Celia Cruz considered a symbol of freedom?
Celia Cruz is seen as a symbol of freedom due to her outspoken support for a free Cuba and her resistance to the Cuban regime after her exile in 1960. Her music and public persona celebrated Cuban culture and the desire for liberty.
What was the significance of the mass held in Havana for Celia Cruz?
The mass in Havana commemorated the 100th anniversary of Celia Cruz's birth, honoring her contributions to music and her symbolic role as an advocate for Cuban freedom. It brought together diplomats, artists, and fans in a celebration of her enduring legacy.
How did the U.S. Embassy in Havana participate in the Celia Cruz tribute?
The U.S. Embassy in Havana participated by sharing images of the mass on social media, emphasizing the historical significance of the tribute with hashtags like "#Azúcar #100YearsWithCelia".