Mike Hammer, the U.S. Mission Chief in Cuba, has extended an open invitation to the people of the island to suggest new locations he should visit and, if they wish, to welcome him into their homes for a coffee.
The U.S. Embassy in Cuba shared this invitation via its account on X, expressing gratitude for the congratulatory messages Hammer received marking his first year in the country and acknowledging the diligent work of his office.
"I thank all the Cubans who have congratulated me from the bottom of my heart," the embassy quoted Hammer, adding that he hopes to continue receiving recommendations to better understand "the everyday reality of ordinary Cubans."
Hammer also made it clear that those interested in inviting him over can reach out via the embassy's official public affairs email: havanapublicaffairs@state.gov.
In a video accompanying the post, Hammer was seen strolling through the streets of Havana, engaging with locals. He expressed his desire to keep exploring the country as he enters his second year of the mission.
"I would love for ordinary Cubans to keep sending me suggestions of places I should visit," he stated. "And if you'd like to invite me in for a coffee, please send me your email."
A Year of Engagement and Insight
Throughout his first year on the island, Hammer has prioritized direct engagement with Cuban citizens. In November, celebrating the anniversary of his arrival, he publicly reflected on his experiences, highlighting the warmth and hospitality he encountered, and the invaluable firsthand accounts shared with him across almost every Cuban province.
In his message, he expressed being moved by the affection and closeness towards "the American" and thanked those who welcomed him into their homes and shared their stories.
Hammer has consistently emphasized that living within the country is essential to understanding the daily struggles marked by scarcity, repression, economic crisis, and lack of freedoms.
He has reiterated that Washington remains committed to human rights in Cuba and the release of political prisoners. His frequent presence in neighborhoods and communities, including meetings with activists, independent journalists, and families affected by the crisis, illustrates his effort to hear the people's voices without regime intermediaries.
During these visits, Hammer has witnessed power outages, food, medicine, and fuel shortages, and a massive exodus of citizens. Despite these challenges, he underscores the resilience and hospitality of the Cuban people, asserting that "change is inevitable."
Under State Security Scrutiny
Hammer's activities have been closely monitored by Cuban State Security. In May, he acknowledged that he is constantly followed by cars used by political police during his tours.
"We are constantly being filmed," he said, though he maintained that this does not deter his commitment to engage directly with the population.
He also noted that the surveillance is so overt that every turn his convoy makes is mirrored by the official vehicles monitoring them.
Hammer has voiced concerns about pro-government social media accounts inciting disturbances or interruptions during his visits, reminding that the Cuban government bears the responsibility to ensure his safety as an accredited diplomat.
In the same address, he stated that public discontent is widespread and that "the vast majority" of Cubans believe "the Revolution has failed."
Through his tours, he has gathered accounts of electricity shortages, a scarcity of basic goods, and the general deterioration of the country, insisting that, according to what he hears on the island, "the regime is to blame."
Connecting with Everyday Life
Hammer has also enjoyed more casual moments during his travels. In September, he shared images of a visit to Cienfuegos, where he joined a family at a children's baseball game, wearing a cap of the local team.
On that occasion, he stated that the Cubans he has met "deserve a better future" and reiterated his willingness to share everyday spaces: "I'll see you in the streets; if you see me, invite me to play dominoes or maybe we'll have a coffee together."
Last year, marking the tenth anniversary of the U.S. Embassy reopening in Havana, he emphasized the importance of maintaining direct contact with citizens. A video at the time showed him traveling through Holguín, Cienfuegos, Bayamo, and Güines, conversing with people from diverse backgrounds.
An Open Invitation to Engage
As he completes his first year and begins his second in Cuba, Hammer reaffirms his intent to continue engaging with the everyday life of the Cuban population. He invites them to suggest places he should visit and, if they wish, welcome him into their homes.
His message on social media signals his commitment to understanding the concerns and priorities of Cubans firsthand, as well as amplifying their voices on the international stage.
Understanding U.S. Diplomatic Efforts in Cuba
How is Mike Hammer engaging with the Cuban population?
Mike Hammer is actively engaging with the Cuban population by visiting various provinces, conversing with locals, and accepting invitations to visit homes. He seeks to understand the daily realities of Cubans and gather firsthand information about their struggles and hopes.
What challenges does Hammer face during his mission in Cuba?
Hammer faces continuous surveillance by Cuban State Security, including being followed by political police vehicles. Additionally, there are online threats from pro-government accounts aimed at disrupting his visits. Despite these challenges, he remains committed to directly engaging with the Cuban people.