The giant screens at Madison Square Garden in New York lit up this Sunday with images advocating for the freedom demanded by Cuban civil society. This initiative was spearheaded by Cuban influencers and activists who rented the coveted space to highlight the cry for 'Freedom' from their compatriots, including those unable to express it on the streets of the island.
With avatars from their social media profiles, users Pilar De Cuba, Jesús Yubero, Owen Francesito, and Livvy Andrea made the plea of millions of Cubans visible in the heart of New York City, all appearing with the Cuban flag and making an "L" for "Libertad" with their fingers.
“There is no greater dignity than honoring the fight for freedom and justice. Freedom is the foundation of all growth; fighting for it represents the highest act of love and humanity towards oneself and others,” Pilar de Cuba expressed on her social media.
Meanwhile, Jesús Yubero humorously commented, “If we're going to spend money on lights, let’s do it with class.” A video shared by this user captured the moment the message was first projected at Madison Square Garden.
“Seeing our friends advocating for freedom on a giant screen in New York is the most beautiful thing you’ll see today... With this image, I want to thank all those outside Cuba, those who aren’t living through this but feel the pain as if they were facing blackouts, eating pumpkin bread, and enduring our inept leaders on TV,” said Facebook user Edmundo Dantés Junior.
In his post, the activist and well-known Cuban influencer thanked “all the Cubans who are free and continue to fight for those of us surviving inside and can do little... There is nothing greater than fighting for the truth and against injustice, even if it’s not happening to you.”
In response to their posts, several Cuban netizens expressed gratitude for the gesture by the four influencers who rented the famous space to give voice to those in Cuba who lack the right to free expression and those serving as political prisoners for exercising their right to protest, think, and speak freely.
Questions and Answers About Freedom Advocacy for Cuba
The following questions and answers address some of the key aspects and implications of the freedom advocacy efforts for Cuba, particularly focusing on the recent event at Madison Square Garden.
Who were the main organizers of the Madison Square Garden event?
The event was organized by Cuban influencers and activists, namely Pilar De Cuba, Jesús Yubero, Owen Francesito, and Livvy Andrea.
What message did the influencers aim to convey with the display?
The influencers aimed to highlight the demand for freedom from Cuban civil society, advocating for justice and human rights for those who cannot express themselves freely on the island.
How did the public react to the event?
Several Cuban netizens expressed their gratitude for the gesture, appreciating the effort to give a voice to those who are denied free expression and those who are political prisoners in Cuba.