Cuban-American host and radio personality Enrique Santos has come to the defense of Lina Luaces after Argentine journalist Pablo Padula mocked the traditional costume she wore at the international Miss Universe pageant.
Padula dismissively described the outfit as "the worst of all time," likening it to "a turkey splattered with paint." In response, Santos, who is one of the most influential voices within the Cuban-American community in Miami, countered the journalist's ridicule by emphasizing the profound patriotic meaning behind the attire, which is far from a mere eccentricity.
A Patriotic Statement Misunderstood
"What you didn't understand: this costume tells the pain of Cuba. More respect. Bravo, @linaluaces for raising awareness. FREEDOM for the oppressed people of Cuba and its political prisoners," Santos posted on his Instagram account. The radio host clarified that what Padula mistakenly referred to as "baseball bats" were actually oars, symbolizing the thousands of Cuban rafters who lost their lives in the Florida Straits in pursuit of freedom.
Furthermore, he explained that the two dominoes included in the design were intentionally chosen to display the numbers 7 and 11, directly referencing July 11, 2021, when thousands of Cubans took to the streets demanding freedom and an end to the communist regime.
Symbolism and Significance
Santos labeled the Argentine journalist as "ignorant" and urged him to "research before speaking nonsense," reminding him that Lina's costume not only represented beauty but also the suffering and hope of a nation enduring over six decades of repression.
The Cuban contestant was among the top 12 finalists in the pageant, which concluded last Wednesday with the crowning of Mexico's representative, Fátima Bosch.
Luaces, daughter of the renowned presenter Lili Estefan, expressed that she had always dreamed of representing Cuba in the pageant as a tribute to all the women from the island who have shaped her roots.
Understanding the Symbolism of Lina Luaces' Miss Universe Costume
What was the significance of the oars in Lina Luaces' costume?
The oars in Lina Luaces' costume symbolized the journey of Cuban rafters who risked their lives in the Florida Straits seeking freedom.
Why were the numbers 7 and 11 chosen for the dominoes in the costume?
The numbers 7 and 11 on the dominoes represented July 11, 2021, a significant date when thousands of Cubans protested for freedom and an end to the communist regime.
How did Enrique Santos respond to the criticism of Lina's costume?
Enrique Santos defended Lina's costume by explaining its deep patriotic symbolism and criticized the journalist for his lack of understanding and respect.