Spanish singer Alejandro Sanz has drawn attention to the oppressive actions against the Cuban youth project El 4tico by sharing a post linked to a protest song about the detention of several members of the group on his social media.
The initial report came from the @SanMemero profile on the social media platform X, featuring a video by Cuban rapper Carlitos P.U.. The video condemns the repression of El 4tico's members under the slogan "We Are All El 4tico."
By sharing the post in one of his stories, Sanz helped spread the message to an international audience, joining other voices from outside Cuba who have supported independent youth initiatives facing persecution on the island.
Carlitos P.U., known as the lead singer of the group Bendita Esquizofrenia and involved in alternative rap and cultural projects, uses his music as a tool to protest against repression and the lack of spaces for young expression outside state control.
Sanz's endorsement brings renewed attention to the plight of independent artists and projects in Cuba, where arrests, harassment, and restrictions on free expression are widespread.
Adding to the chorus of voices demanding freedom for the young creators of El 4tico, singer Haydée Milanés stated that their detention is yet "another proof of the horror" inflicted by the Cuban regime.
"Yesterday, these two young Cubans were detained simply for expressing their thoughts. The world needs to know that in #Cuba, different thinking is cruelly punished. This is nothing new; it's just another instance of the horror we Cubans endure. Below is the message left by Kamil, anticipating this arrest," Milanés expressed on Facebook.
Comedian Ulises Toirac added his perspective on the situation: "Freedom of expression is just the first step—it allows you to say what you think out loud. But it’s not until there’s democracy that this voice is not only heard but also considered. Only then does freedom of expression reach its true significance, ending exclusions."
Understanding the Repression of El 4tico in Cuba
Who is Alejandro Sanz?
Alejandro Sanz is a renowned Spanish singer-songwriter known for his support of social causes. Recently, he highlighted the repression against the Cuban youth project El 4tico.
What is the El 4tico project?
El 4tico is a Cuban youth project that has faced persecution from the regime for its independent and expressive initiatives, which challenge state control.
How did Carlitos P.U. contribute to this issue?
Cuban rapper Carlitos P.U. created a video condemning the repression against El 4tico, which gained international attention after being shared by Alejandro Sanz.
What has been the international response?
The international response has included support from artists and activists who are drawing attention to the Cuban regime's oppressive actions against independent youth movements.