Havana's Revolution Square, a landmark synonymous with political power in Cuba, was briefly renamed "Plaza Díaz-Canel Singao" on Google Maps this Wednesday.
For several hours, the altered name was visible on the platform, seemingly as a digital protest against the Cuban regime and its prominent figure, Miguel Díaz-Canel.
Such a renaming of a site that the government views as a symbol of the Revolution is seen as a bold act of mockery directed at Cuba's political system.
Google allows users to propose changes to site names, but these suggestions undergo a verification process. Occasionally, these alterations become publicly visible for a short time before being corrected by moderators or reported by other users.
The offensive title is likely to be removed, restoring the square's official name. According to company policies, inappropriate, political, or insulting content is deleted, and users responsible for such changes may face suspension.
This isn't an isolated incident in Cuba. In recent years, various public spaces and state buildings have been temporarily renamed on Google Maps with expressions of dissent or ridicule aimed at the regime's leaders.
In 2021, several Cuban activists initiated a viral challenge to rename Havana's Revolution Square to "Plaza de la Libertad," which succeeded following a flood of requests from Cubans both inside and outside the island.
Although these modifications are short-lived, they highlight the internet as an alternative space for protest in a society where public criticism of those in power remains constrained.
Even a digital map can serve as a symbolic stage for resistance against state control.
Understanding the Digital Protest Against the Cuban Regime
Why was the name of Revolution Square changed on Google Maps?
The name change appeared to be a form of digital protest against the Cuban government and its leaders, using humor as a tool to criticize the regime.
How does Google handle inappropriate name changes on Maps?
Google reviews suggested changes through a verification process. Inappropriate or offensive content is typically removed, and users responsible for such changes may face account suspension.
Have there been similar incidents in Cuba?
Yes, there have been several instances where public spaces and state buildings in Cuba were renamed on Google Maps as a form of protest or ridicule against the regime.