A young Christian took to a central avenue in Santiago de Cuba this weekend, holding up a sign that read: "Freedom, Cuba for Christ." This event occurred on one of the city's busiest streets, especially on Saturdays when the regime organizes fairs with scarce products, attracting thousands of people seeking essentials for their homes.
The video of the demonstration was shared on Facebook by independent journalist Yosmany Mayeta Labrada, who thanked those who sent him the footage. The name of the young man who held the sign has not yet been revealed.
This peaceful protest is reminiscent of a similar case involving political prisoner Luis Robles Elizástigui, who was sentenced to five years in prison in 2021 for demonstrating with a sign on the San Rafael Boulevard in Havana. Since April, Robles has been eligible to apply for parole, which has been denied by Cuban authorities.
Such demonstrations highlight the growing discontent among some sectors of the population and the ongoing struggle for freedom of expression and human rights in Cuba.
Growing Discontent and Protests in Cuba
This section addresses common questions and concerns about the recent protests and the broader movement for freedom and human rights in Cuba.
Who is Yosmany Mayeta Labrada?
Yosmany Mayeta Labrada is an independent journalist who shared the video of the young Christian's protest in Santiago de Cuba.
What was Luis Robles Elizástigui protesting?
Luis Robles Elizástigui was protesting for freedom of expression and human rights in Cuba with a sign on San Rafael Boulevard in Havana.
Why was Luis Robles Elizástigui sentenced to five years in prison?
Luis Robles Elizástigui was sentenced to five years in prison for his peaceful protest in Havana, which the Cuban authorities deemed illegal.