Esteemed Cuban actress, Miriam Learra, known for her significant contributions to theater and television on the island, passed away on Saturday in Havana at the age of 88. However, her family is voicing their distress as her body remains uncollected by funeral services for more than 10 hours.
The situation was brought to light by actor Antonio Arroyo, a close friend and colleague of Learra. He took to Facebook to seek assistance and empathy regarding the unfortunate circumstance.
"Miriam Learra passed away today, and still the funeral services have not picked up the body, even after more than 10 hours since her passing. Please, if anyone reading this can help, I would be incredibly grateful," Arroyo expressed in his post.
Arroyo further explained that the artist's family has repeatedly contacted the necessary institutions without receiving any response, causing outrage among friends and colleagues in the artistic community.
“Her closest family members have reached out to all necessary contacts and have yet to receive a reply. If payment is required, I am willing to cover it. She was not only a dear friend but an extraordinary woman. Let us show some empathy,” Arroyo added, clearly moved by the event.
This complaint has sparked a wave of shock on social media, where numerous users mourn not only the loss of one of Cuba's theater greats but also the undignified treatment following her death. This incident highlights the deficiencies and neglect in the country’s public services.
Legacy of a Cuban Theater Icon
Born in 1936, Miriam Learra pursued her studies in Prague through a scholarship and joined Teatro Estudio in 1966. There, she worked under the direction of renowned figures such as Vicente Revuelta and Adolfo de Luis, in iconic productions like La ronda, Doña Rosita la soltera, Bodas de sangre, and Galileo Galilei.
In the 1990s, she continued her illustrious career with the Hubert de Blanck Company and also made notable contributions to Cuban radio, film, and television.
Among her accolades are the Best Female Performance Award at the inaugural Havana Theater Festival and the same honor at the Sitges Theater Festival (Barcelona, Spain).
While colleagues and admirers bid farewell to the artist with heartfelt messages, her family remains in limbo, waiting for funeral authorities to fulfill their basic duty—removing the body of a woman who devoted her life to Cuban art and deserves a respectful farewell.
FAQs on Miriam Learra's Funeral Controversy
Why has Miriam Learra’s body not been collected by funeral services?
Despite repeated calls from her family, the responsible institutions have not responded, leaving her body uncollected for over 10 hours.
What impact has this incident had on social media?
The incident has caused a stir on social media, with many expressing outrage over the disrespectful treatment and highlighting the inadequacies of public services in Cuba.