The First International Political Humor Biennial commenced this Friday in Havana, featuring caricaturists from 24 countries. However, authorities have cautioned that there are "limits" when it comes to humor about Cuba and its leaders. Organized by the National Council of Plastic Arts and the Ministry of Culture, the event showcases 225 works from 60 contestants from the invited countries, reported Martí Noticias.
Arístides Hernández, a member of the organizing committee, emphasized during a press conference that “there are always limits in humor,” particularly when it comes to Cuba. These limits pertain to “historical figures of the Revolution and the core concepts of Cuban national identity; there will be room for social criticism and satire as long as these aspects are not disrespectfully or degradingly addressed,” he stated.
Ismael Lema Águila, a caricaturist and director of the official humoristic weekly "Palante", and a member of the Biennial's organizing committee, highlighted that the main feature of the event is the contest, which includes over 200 works by 66 creators from 24 countries.
Nevertheless, Jorge Fernández Era, a journalist, writer, and humorist who is frequently targeted by the regime, pointed out the irony of hosting "a political humor festival in a country where political humor that deviates from established norms is not allowed." He added, "For both humorists and writers, if you do not follow the party and government line, you are ostracized, and this is what has been happening to me for over a year. The grand irony lies there, and it seems like a huge mockery," he told Martí Noticias.
Enrique del Risco, a university professor, writer, and Cuban humorist exiled in the United States, noted that humorists like Fernández Era are persecuted daily for expressing themselves freely. "If Cuban humorists should do anything, it would be to stand against the persecution of a colleague, but that, of course, does not happen," he stressed.
He recalled that Cuban authorities censor, place Fernández Era under house arrest, and prevent him from leaving the country. Despite a public letter in July 2023 signed by over 200 humorists, artists, and writers denouncing the "campaign of harassment and discredit" against the artist, who has been "a reference for Cuban humor for four decades," an editor and author of books, and "awarded numerous national and international prizes throughout his career."
On the island where Miguel Díaz-Canel, his wife Lis Cuesta, and other political figures are frequently the subjects of memes and jokes both inside and outside Cuba, several individuals have been imprisoned for mocking these figures on social media.
According to the organizers, in addition to the competition awarding three prizes, the event will feature graphic exhibitions, discussions, theatrical performances, audiovisual presentations, and musical events at the 23 and 12 gallery, its main venue, as well as at the Pabellón Cuba and the Cine Yara, all located in Havana.
The festival's theme will be the “Fight against neofascism,” an ideological movement characterized by the subjugation of citizens to the State, a totalitarian regime, and the rejection of political rights and civil liberties.
Understanding the Limits on Political Humor in Cuba
The article highlights critical aspects of the Biennial and the political environment in Cuba. Here are some frequently asked questions to further understand the context and implications:
Why are there limits on political humor in Cuba?
The Cuban government enforces limits on political humor to avoid disrespect or degradation of historical figures of the Revolution and the core concepts of Cuban national identity.
Who is Jorge Fernández Era?
Jorge Fernández Era is a journalist, writer, and humorist who has been targeted by the Cuban regime for his political satire, facing harassment and restrictions on his freedom.
What is the main theme of the Biennial?
The main theme of the Biennial is the “Fight against neofascism,” focusing on resistance against totalitarianism and the suppression of political rights and civil liberties.