Cuban content creator José Martínez shared a video poem titled "I Won't Sign" on Facebook, directly opposing the government-sponsored "My Signature for the Homeland" initiative. This campaign, initiated by the Communist Party of Cuba (PCC), aims to gather support in celebration of the 65th anniversary of the Battle of Playa Girón.
In his poem, Martínez unreservedly criticizes what he believes campaign participants are endorsing: "They sign for the lack of bread, meat, and medicine. They sign to remain in ruins, following Iran's example. They sign to continue with a single, arrogant and miserable party. More innocence imprisoned, more lies, more decay. There's a chip implanted in their necks. Some people, so gullible, are signing their own demise."
The campaign was unveiled on April 18 by Yuniasky Crespo Baquero, head of the Ideological Department of the PCC's Central Committee, and was described as a constitutional "supreme duty."
Miguel Díaz-Canel launched the campaign in Ciénaga de Zapata, Matanzas, under the motto "Girón is today and forever," asserting that Cuba will never be a trophy or another star in the American constellation.
Morales Ojeda, PCC's Secretary of Organization, claimed last Monday that the initiative stemmed from civil society organizations. However, in Cuba, no truly independent civil society exists, as mass organizations are constitutionally subordinated to the PCC, the state's ruling political force.
Signature books were distributed across communities, workplaces, and schools nationwide under institutional pressure. In Matanzas, there were reports of threats of dismissal for workers who refused to sign.
Even employees at the Antonio Guiteras thermoelectric plant participated in the campaign, prompting a widespread question on social media: "When will they sign to bring electricity to Cuba?"
The opposition to the campaign extended beyond the viral poem. José Daniel Ferrer García, leader of the Patriotic Union of Cuba (UNPACU), issued a call to abstain from signing, arguing that the campaign supports those who oppress the people. Activist Lara Crofs (Yamilka Lafita Cancio) echoed this sentiment with the slogan, "No signatures in favor of tyranny."
Frequently Asked Questions about the "My Signature for the Homeland" Campaign
What is the purpose of the "My Signature for the Homeland" campaign?
The campaign, initiated by the Communist Party of Cuba, aims to gather signatures in support of the government, commemorating the 65th anniversary of the Battle of Playa Girón.
Why is the campaign controversial?
Critics argue that the campaign endorses the current regime's oppressive policies and lacks genuine support from independent civil society, as it is orchestrated by the state-controlled PCC.