The Patmos Institute has bestowed its Annual Award for 2025 on Cuban intellectual and political prisoner José Gabriel Barrenechea, and posthumously on his mother, Zoila Esther Chávez, who passed away without seeing him one last time, reported Martí Noticias.
This tribute celebrates their unwavering faith, moral integrity, and commitment to human rights in a Cuba where speaking freely and holding beliefs continue to be acts of courage and danger.
Faith That Endures Even in Confinement
The award, presented every October 31, aligns with the International Day of Protestant Reformation, honoring those who embody genuine faith and ethical commitment to truth on the island. Pastor Mario Félix Lleonart, founder of the Institute, clarified that the award "is not given because someone is imprisoned, but because they uphold their faith amid adversity," as reported by the outlet.
"José Gabriel has transitioned from what he termed a cultural Catholic to a more vivid and existential faith experience, strengthened in prison," Lleonart stated.
An Intellectual Punished for Speaking Truth
José Gabriel Barrenechea, a physics professor and writer from Villa Clara, was apprehended on November 8, 2024, following his participation in a peaceful protest against power outages in Encrucijada, Villa Clara. Despite being tried on September 24, 2025, he remains detained without a verdict, a situation that activists and organizations condemn as a breach of his fundamental rights.
Zoila Esther Chávez: A Mother Who Died Waiting
The Institute also honored the memory of Zoila Esther Chávez, the intellectual’s mother, who died on May 4, 2025, at 84, without the chance to hug her son. According to the Patmos Institute, the authorities cruelly responded to the family’s request: “The son will see his mother when she dies.”
Zoila, stricken with cancer, succumbed to sorrow, refusing nourishment. Her story echoes the anguish of countless Cuban mothers whose children remain imprisoned for political reasons.
A Voice from Within the Cell
From his confinement, Barrenechea sent two messages reflecting his spiritual calmness and dedication to the principles that led to his imprisonment: “I wish to thank my Church, my mom’s, and my elders’: the Catholic Church. Monsignor Arturo brought me spiritual comfort and the word of Our Lord.”
In another letter to Pastor Lleonart, he wrote: “I will bear the Cross as my Lord. There are values that give meaning to our days, and despite the hardships they bring, it’s an honor to face them. God, Country, and Family!”
Twelve Years of Honoring Free Conscience
Founded in 2014, the Patmos Award has acknowledged Cuban intellectuals, activists, and believers who have faced persecution for their faith or critical thinking. Among its awardees are Ernesto Borges, Félix Navarro, Lorenzo Rosales, María Cristina Garrido, and Sissi Abascal, all victims of political repression or imprisonment.
This edition marks twelve consecutive years of advocating for freedom of conscience, paying tribute to a son enduring behind bars and a mother who died awaiting justice.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Patmos Award and Political Prisoners in Cuba
Who is José Gabriel Barrenechea?
José Gabriel Barrenechea is a Cuban intellectual and political prisoner, recognized for his unwavering faith and advocacy for human rights.
What is the Patmos Award?
The Patmos Award, established by the Patmos Institute, honors individuals in Cuba who demonstrate genuine faith and ethical commitment, often amidst adversity.
Why was Zoila Esther Chávez honored posthumously?
Zoila Esther Chávez was honored posthumously for her moral integrity and the deep sorrow she endured, unable to see her son, José Gabriel Barrenechea, before her death.
How does the Patmos Award highlight issues in Cuba?
The Patmos Award highlights the challenges faced by those in Cuba who are persecuted for their beliefs and for advocating for human rights, drawing attention to the political repression on the island.