In the conclusion of a conversation with Tania Costa for CiberCuba, artist and activist Luis Manuel Otero Alcántara encapsulated his religious, cultural, and political identity in one succinct statement: "I am with Oshún, I am with the Virgin of Cobre, but most importantly, I am with Cuba."
This declaration emerged when the interviewer inquired about the Oshún necklace he wore and his performance titled "Restoring the Broken Virgin," which he presented upon arriving in Miami on July 18, 2026, after spending five years in Guanajay's maximum-security prison.
Otero explained that both figures symbolize the same to him, playing on the Afro-Cuban syncretism where Oshún, the Yoruba orisha of love and fresh waters, is commonly associated with the Virgin of Charity of Cobre, Cuba's patron saint.
Commitment Beyond Spirituality
However, his response transcended spiritual realms, emphasizing that his ultimate allegiance lies with his people, surpassing any religious or political affiliation.
"The people who care for me, I care for them even more. I love them more, and we will continue working towards a free Cuba," he added in a heartfelt message to his supporters.
Metaphor of Growth and Change
Prior to this conclusion, Otero employed a metaphor of muscle to describe the transformation he believes the Cuban society must undergo: "A muscle tears during exercise, separates, and new muscle must fill the gap, leading to growth. This happens in the brain and it must happen in society, including Cuban society."
He dismissed the notion of waiting for a providential leader to resolve the island's crisis, stating, "We must learn to be democratic, to fight for our future, and not leave it in the hands of a savior or a caudillo dictating our actions."
Hope in the New Generation
Otero praised the resilience of Cuba's younger generations as a sign of potential change: "Today, young people take to the streets daily to protest, even if it means facing five or six years in prison, yet they persist."
Humbly acknowledging his own role, he remarked, "We are part of a change, but there are countless individuals eager for transformation, proving it is indeed possible."
A Vision from Exile
Describing his departure from Cuba as a forced exile—where the State Security made it clear that leaving prison required leaving the country—Otero concluded with a vision of what he hopes to achieve from exile.
"For CiberCuba to have a building in Havana and broadcast from there, allowing us all to have a space in that reality," he said, outlining a mission that extends beyond his own persona.
As Otero speaks from Miami, his fellow San Isidro Movement member and "Patria y Vida" co-author, Maykel Osorbo, remains imprisoned in Cuba despite receiving humanitarian parole approval from the United States in July 2026.
FAQs About Luis Manuel Otero and Cuba's Future
Who is Luis Manuel Otero Alcántara?
Luis Manuel Otero Alcántara is a Cuban artist and activist known for his outspoken criticism of Cuba's political regime and his involvement with the San Isidro Movement.
What is the significance of Oshún and the Virgin of Cobre in Cuban culture?
Oshún is a Yoruba orisha associated with love and fresh water, while the Virgin of Cobre is Cuba's patron saint. They are linked through Afro-Cuban syncretism, representing a blend of cultural and religious identities.
What is the San Isidro Movement?
The San Isidro Movement is a collective of artists, activists, and academics advocating for freedom of expression and democratic reforms in Cuba.