On Wednesday, officials from the United States Embassy in Cuba joined a global call advocating for the release of Cuban political prisoners. This demonstration of solidarity aligned with the observance of International Human Rights Day.
In a video shared on the official Twitter account @USEmbCuba, American diplomats voiced their support for both Cubans on the island and those in exile demanding the immediate release of individuals imprisoned for political reasons and free speech under the communist regime.
"Our embassy stands with the everyday Cuban citizens and those in exile in calling for the release of all unjustly incarcerated political prisoners. Know that we support you. #Everyone #Freedom," read the message from the U.S. diplomatic mission.
The video featured American officials holding lit candles and photographs of well-known political prisoners, including artists and activists like Luis Manuel Otero Alcántara, Maykel Castillo “Osorbo”, opposition figure Félix Navarro, and young activist Sissi Abascal, among others.
This initiative aims to honor the Cubans detained for exercising their fundamental rights and to send a message of support to their families, who have reported the prisoners' isolation, mistreatment, and lack of medical care in the regime's prisons.
The embassy reiterated the Trump Administration's stance on upholding human rights in Cuba and supporting those who "fight for freedom and democracy."
The diplomatic gesture was seen as a clear message of solidarity with the Cuban civil society, especially the activists targeted by the regime, independent artists, and journalists imprisoned following the July 11 protests and other peaceful demonstrations.
Meanwhile, the Cuban government continues to deny the existence of political prisoners, despite organizations like Prisoners Defenders and Justicia 11J identifying over 1,000 individuals detained.
The regime's repression extends to activists, religious figures, journalists, and peaceful dissidents, whom it labels "mercenaries" or "agents of imperialism."
Understanding the Call for Cuban Political Prisoners' Freedom
Why are U.S. Embassy officials advocating for Cuban political prisoners?
U.S. Embassy officials are advocating for Cuban political prisoners as part of a global movement to support human rights and demand the release of individuals detained for political reasons and free speech under the Cuban regime.
What message did the U.S. Embassy convey in their video?
The U.S. Embassy conveyed a message of solidarity with Cuban citizens, both on the island and in exile, calling for the release of all political prisoners and expressing support for their cause.
How has the Cuban government responded to claims of political prisoners?
The Cuban government has denied the existence of political prisoners, despite evidence and identification of over 1,000 detainees by organizations such as Prisoners Defenders and Justicia 11J.