Cuban singer-songwriter Amaury Pérez Vidal, a prominent figure in the Nueva Trova movement, reminisced about his friendship with dictator Fidel Castro while receiving the Maestro de Juventudes Award in Havana. The accolade, presented by the Asociación Hermanos Saíz (AHS), celebrates his artistic contributions.
During the ceremony, Pérez expressed gratitude to his mentors, colleagues, and family, acknowledging key figures in his artistic journey, such as Silvio Rodríguez, Pablo Milanés, Sara González, and the late historian Eusebio Leal.
However, it was his mention of Fidel Castro as "his friend, the Commander in Chief" that stirred controversy both within and outside of Cuba.
"I thought of my later teachers, Frank Fernández, Julián Fernández, my guitar instructor, Silvio, Pablo, Sara, José María Vitier, Juan Manuel Ceruto, all my companions from the Nueva Trova, and my friend, the Commander in Chief, Fidel Castro," the artist remarked.
The 71-year-old performer declared that "culture saved us and will continue to save us," accepting the award with a mix of "uncertainties and certainties." He thanked the AHS for the honor and acknowledged the young artists who carry on the Cuban cultural legacy.
In the closing part of his speech, Amaury Pérez quoted Eusebio Leal, the former historian of Havana, and ended with the revolutionary slogan: "Homeland and Faith! We will overcome!"
His remarks were shared by writer and Casa de las Américas president Abel Prieto, who posted the full text of the speech on social media.
The reference to Fidel Castro sparked a wave of reactions online. While official media highlighted the message of "loyalty and love for the Homeland," many users criticized it as "submission" and "nostalgia for a dictatorship" that continues to influence the island's cultural and political life.
Some expressed pride in the troubadour's career, while others lamented that figures of his generation still glorify the late communist leader.
"Amaury remains stuck in the past, in a country where young people leave, and artists stay silent out of fear," one Facebook commenter noted.
The Maestro de Juventudes Award honors individuals who have distinguished themselves in the cultural and artistic development of new generations. Previous recipients include Fernando Pérez, Adela Legrá, and Frank Fernández.
Controversy Surrounding Amaury Pérez's Remarks
Why did Amaury Pérez's mention of Fidel Castro cause controversy?
Amaury Pérez's mention of Fidel Castro as "his friend" was controversial because it highlighted a connection to the former dictator, sparking debate over loyalty to a regime seen as oppressive by many.
What is the Maestro de Juventudes Award?
The Maestro de Juventudes Award is an honor presented to individuals who have made significant contributions to the cultural and artistic education of younger generations in Cuba.
How did social media react to Pérez's speech?
Social media reactions were mixed; while some praised Pérez's career, others criticized his nostalgic reference to Fidel Castro, viewing it as an endorsement of an oppressive regime.