Marking the 158th anniversary of the Cry of Yara, Mike Hammer, the head of the U.S. diplomatic mission in Cuba, shared a video message this Saturday on the U.S. Embassy's Facebook page in Havana. He highlighted that ordinary Cuban citizens are eager to shape their future and maintain a close relationship with the United States.
The video began by recalling the uprising of October 10, 1868, when Carlos Manuel de Céspedes declared the start of the Ten Years' War at the La Demajagua sugar mill. Hammer quoted Céspedes, known as the father of the nation, saying, "Our goal is to enjoy the benefits of freedom," emphasizing that this remains a core aspiration of the Cuban people.
Hammer also reflected on the historical alliance between the Cuban insurgents, known as mambises, and the Rough Riders led by then-Lieutenant Colonel Theodore Roosevelt during the 1898 war for independence. This partnership is seen as a symbol of the enduring ties between the two nations, despite opposition from those unwilling to accept this reality.
The crux of Hammer's message was derived from his travels across the island: "What I see and hear during my visits is that common Cubans want the ability to determine their own fate and desire a strong bond with the United States, or 'la Yuma,' as they call it."
He further noted that "more and more Cubans are peacefully voicing their demands for fundamental rights to be respected," and concluded by reaffirming Washington's commitment: "On this October 10, in honor of the legacy of Céspedes, Maceo, Martí, and the other heroes of Cuban independence, the United States reiterates its support for the Cuban people and the human rights they deserve, including the freedom to express themselves and decide their own future."
The video quickly garnered over 34,000 views, nearly 4,000 reactions, and 366 comments in a short span.
Hammer's message came during a week of significant public engagement. On Thursday, Cuban locals approached him for photos during a walk through the Plaza de la Revolución in Havana, using the hashtag #WithOrdinaryCubans. Earlier in the week, the regime organized a protest against Hammer outside the residence of activist Anna Bensi, whom he had visited after she was sentenced by a regime-controlled court.
This national holiday arrives at a particularly challenging time for Cuba. According to Prisoners Defenders, the number of political prisoners on the island exceeds 1,300 cases as of October 2026, while power outages affected over 2,000 megawatts throughout most of September and the beginning of this month.
This isn't the first time Hammer has drawn parallels between the legacy of independence and current events. During a July 4 reception for the diplomatic community in Havana, he delivered a pointed message to the Cuban regime with statements like "your time is running out" and "freedom is approaching," expressing hope that Cuba would achieve freedom by the year's end.
"The night will not be eternal," Hammer quoted, invoking words from activist Oswaldo Payá, a sentiment that resonates powerfully on this October 10, 158 years after the Cry of Yara and the liberties championed by Carlos Manuel de Céspedes.
Understanding the Current Cuban Situation
What was the Cry of Yara?
The Cry of Yara was the event on October 10, 1868, when Carlos Manuel de Céspedes initiated the Ten Years' War by declaring independence from Spanish rule at the La Demajagua sugar mill.
Who is Mike Hammer?
Mike Hammer is the head of the U.S. diplomatic mission in Cuba, engaged in advocating for human rights and supporting the Cuban people's aspirations for freedom and self-determination.
What challenges is Cuba currently facing?
Cuba is currently dealing with significant issues, including a high number of political prisoners and frequent power outages. These challenges are compounded by the regime's repressive actions against dissenting voices.