The Cuban Art Factory (FAC) has publicly responded to accusations of racial discrimination propagated by the Cuban Institute of Music and state-run media, labeling these claims as "false, shameful, and defamatory."
In a statement shared on their Facebook page, the cultural hub led by musician X Alfonso declared that these accusations are part of an "official campaign" aimed at undermining an independent space that has championed inclusion and diversity in Cuba for over a decade.
"These claims are not only false and embarrassing but are particularly painful for a project that has been synonymous with promoting inclusion, diversity, and unity through art since its inception," the FAC stated in its release.
Furthermore, the center accused "the same officials who have repeatedly tried to censor our initiatives" of orchestrating this attack.
The statement emphasized that the defamatory campaign "intensified" after the FAC attempted to honor Celia Cruz on her centenary, an event that they claim was censored by cultural authorities.
"Rather than supporting this well-deserved tribute to one of our most iconic figures, they chose to censor it at the last minute," the statement elaborated.
Highlighting its financial and artistic independence, FAC noted, "Our financial sustainability relies solely on the efforts of our members and partnerships with private entities; no institution covers our operating expenses."
Additionally, the organization mentioned that all equipment, furniture, and resources have been acquired by its director with personal funds, without any government assistance.
Moreover, the center recalled its social and community efforts, including support following the 2019 Havana tornado, serving as a vaccination center during the pandemic, and contributing to local infrastructure repairs.
"Our commitment to the community is not just talk; it is genuine and unwavering," FAC asserted.
"FAC will remain a space for free creation, an inclusive haven for gathering and peace," the statement concluded, calling for dialogue and unity against attempts at censorship.
The FAC's post received a substantial wave of support from artists, intellectuals, and citizens, who deemed the official attack unjust against one of the few remaining independent cultural spaces on the island.
Yhan Manuel Márquez Reyes commented, "They've reached the point of fearing even culture. If they truly see you as a threat, they'll wage a war to shut you down. Be smart and tactful, because ultimately, you're either with them or against them."
Likewise, Yordanka Paredes observed that "state institutions seized this complaint to attack FAC, which is hypocritical, given that the State itself has systematically discriminated against Cubans."
Paredes further suggested that FAC should maintain open dialogue channels to prevent future manipulation and urged "not to destroy one of the few free cultural spaces in the country."
Musicologist Rosa Marquetti also expressed solidarity with the project: "I stand with FAC, the Alfonso family, and all those wronged by discriminatory acts. I reject the campaigns and settling of scores that threaten artistic freedom."
Other users, such as Yanetsis Sarduy and Yusleidis Cepero, agreed that the controversy, stemming from an incident where a young man was denied entry due to being mistaken for a pickpocket, has been exploited to tarnish the project's reputation.
"It's sad, but that's life: you do a thousand things right and one wrong, and only the wrong will be remembered," Cepero remarked. "FAC is one of the few places with a healthy and diverse atmosphere. What would we gain if it closes? Nothing," she added.
The clash between FAC and regime institutions comes after a young man, Alejandro Bridón Mesa, claimed he was barred from entering the venue under the pretense of "right of admission."
Despite X Alfonso personally apologizing to the affected individual and clarifying it was a misunderstanding, the Ministry of Culture used the incident to level "discrimination" accusations against the cultural center.
Analysts and social media users suggest that this conflict highlights the increasing tension between independent cultural spaces and Cuba's institutional apparatus, which has sought to maintain control over artistic expressions and autonomous projects.
Tensions Between Cuban Art Factory and the Regime
What sparked the conflict between FAC and the Cuban regime?
The conflict arose after FAC was accused of racial discrimination by the Cuban Institute of Music and state media, which FAC claims is part of an official campaign to discredit them following their attempt to honor Celia Cruz.
How has FAC responded to the accusations?
FAC has publicly denounced the accusations as false and defamatory, emphasizing their commitment to inclusion and diversity, and highlighting their financial and artistic independence.
What support has FAC received from the public?
FAC has garnered significant support from artists, intellectuals, and citizens who view the accusations as unjust and recognize FAC as one of the few independent cultural spaces in Cuba.