The well-known Cuban activist, Rosa María Payá, was awarded the Keys to the City of Miami on Monday. This recognition was presented by Mayor Francis Suárez in an official ceremony attended by commissioners, community leaders, and members of the Cuban exile community.
On Facebook, Payá, daughter of the legendary dissident Oswaldo Payá, expressed her feelings, stating that it is "an honor that fills me with gratitude and responsibility."
She extended particular thanks to her loved ones—“those who rarely appear in the photo but are indispensable”—for supporting her emotionally throughout her activism. Additionally, she thanked the local government, saying, “Thank you, City of Miami Government, for paving the way and standing with us in the defense of freedom. This honor is shared with all of you.”
An Appeal for Global Mobilization
During the event, Payá called for a global mobilization on December 10th, International Human Rights Day, to protest in front of Cuban regime embassies and consulates. “We need to push together. Let's show the world that we are ready to reclaim our freedom,” she urged, as reported by Martí Noticias.
“I accept this recognition as a tribute to the struggle of the Cuban people, who are currently enduring a man-made humanitarian catastrophe under a dictatorship that has lasted 66 years,” she stated in her speech.
Mayor Suárez's Warning on Communism
When presenting the award, Mayor Suárez praised the activist's efforts and warned about the spread of communism in the region and its political impact. “It's not just about Cuban freedom, which is a central issue for our community, but about rejecting the deceit of communism and defending the values that uphold this city: capitalism, freedom, and democracy,” Martí Noticias quoted him.
Suárez emphasized that Payá's mission represents one of the greatest challenges for any modern leadership: attempting to transform a country through democratic means within an authoritarian context. “Without her work, this movement would lack purpose,” he affirmed.
A Symbolic Gesture for the Cuban Exile Community
For the Cuban exile community, the awarding of the Keys to the City holds deep symbolic value. Miami has long been a haven for those fleeing repression in Cuba and a hub for political and civic activities advocating for Cuba's freedom.
Rising International Influence
It is worth noting that this year, Rosa María Payá took on the role of commissioner at the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR), becoming the first Cuban dissident to hold a position within the organization, with the support of the U.S. government. Her role amplifies her influence in the hemispheric debate on democracy and human rights.
Rosa María Payá's Role in the Struggle for Cuban Freedom
What recognition did Rosa María Payá receive in Miami?
Rosa María Payá was awarded the Keys to the City of Miami, a significant honor presented by Mayor Francis Suárez.
Why did Payá dedicate the award to the struggle for Cuban freedom?
Payá dedicated the award to the struggle for Cuban freedom as a tribute to the Cuban people's fight against a longstanding dictatorship and the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the country.
What is the significance of the Keys to the City for the Cuban exile community?
The Keys to the City symbolize support and recognition of the Cuban exile community in Miami, which has been a refuge and center for political advocacy for Cuban freedom.