U.S. Embassy diplomats in Cuba recently held a meeting with the wife and mother of political prisoners Félix Navarro and Sayli Navarro, as confirmed by the consular office on their social media platform.
Additionally, they engaged in discussions with Iván Hernández Carrión and Asunción Carrión Hernández in Perico, located in Matanzas Province.
During the visit, the diplomats reiterated the unwavering support of the United States for the Navarro family and emphasized their ongoing demand for the release of all political detainees, including Félix and Sayli Navarro.
"We continue to insist on the release of these individuals and all political prisoners," the embassy stated.
This meeting is part of broader diplomatic initiatives in Cuba, according to the embassy's statement.
Led by Mike Hammer, the current Head of Mission (Chargé d'Affaires), the diplomatic team has been actively engaging in "street diplomacy," traveling across Cuban provinces to interact directly with everyday Cubans, families, activists, religious leaders (such as the bishop of Camagüey), and opposition figures.
In these interactions, officials have listened to concerns about human rights and aspirations for a better Cuba, while also challenging the regime's orchestrated acts of repudiation, which include harassment in public spaces.
Sayli Navarro Álvarez and Félix Navarro Rodríguez, a father-daughter duo known for their opposition to the Cuban government, were both detained following the July 11, 2021 (11J) protests in Perico, Matanzas.
Félix, aged 72, is a veteran dissident, leader, and coordinator of the Pedro Luis Boitel Party for Democracy. He was briefly released in January 2025 after serving nine years for charges of "assault," "public disorder," and "disrespect" (including time from the 2003 Black Spring).
He was re-arrested in April 2025 for alleged probation violations. Despite facing health issues in prison, he has continuously supported families of political prisoners and denounced abuses.
Sayli, an independent journalist and former member of the Ladies in White for over a decade, received an eight-year sentence for "assault" and "public disorder." She remains imprisoned, having rejected exile in exchange for freedom, and was nominated for the International Courage Award in 2023.
She was detained a day after 11J while investigating the status of detained protesters at a police station.
Key Aspects of U.S. Diplomatic Efforts in Cuba
What is the focus of the U.S. Embassy's recent diplomatic activities in Cuba?
The U.S. Embassy has been engaging in "street diplomacy," meeting with everyday Cubans, activists, religious leaders, and opposition figures to address human rights concerns and aspirations for a democratic future.
Who are Sayli and Félix Navarro, and why are they significant?
Sayli and Félix Navarro are prominent Cuban political prisoners and activists. Their detentions are linked to their opposition to the Cuban government, notably following the protests on July 11, 2021.
What actions has Félix Navarro taken that led to his imprisonment?
Félix Navarro has been a vocal dissident, leading the Pedro Luis Boitel Party for Democracy and supporting families of political prisoners, actions which have led to multiple arrests by the Cuban regime.