The Cuban Observatory for Human Rights (OCDH) and the independent legal platform Cubalex have identified over a hundred repressive actions against dissidents, opponents, and families of political prisoners on the island, marking the third anniversary of the historic July 11 protests.
In an extensive thread posted on the social network X, Cubalex documents various reports of repression against activists, opponents, independent journalists, and families suffering the imprisonment of their loved ones simply for their dissent. The legal platform has recorded acts of intimidation occurring since late June, serving as warnings from the State Security, the regime's primary repressive organ, leading up to this July 11.
"Days before commemorating the third anniversary of the historic protests of July 11 and 12 in Cuba, activists and journalists face harassment and repression from State Security," they wrote in the preamble of their thread, which includes reports from José Luis Tan Estrada, Raymar Aguado Hernández, Alejandro Garlobo, Yunia Figueredo, Yoani Sánchez, Reinaldo Escobar, Yamilka Lafitta, the well-known social media figure Lara Croffs, members of the Damas de Blanco, Guillermo "Coco" Fariñas, and many other Cubans who are being censored and repressed.
Additionally, the OCDH wrote on the same social network that "since Monday, we have been receiving reports from activists and families of prisoners who are being watched by the political police from the vicinity of their homes." Among those listed were Wilber Aguilar, father of political prisoner Walnier Luis Aguilar; Nelvis Rodríguez, wife of Yeriel Cruz; and Delanis Álvarez, wife of Duniesky Ruiz.
The organization also mentioned that they have recorded at least a hundred repressive actions, including a partial internet blackout on Wednesday, July 10, lasting 24 hours.
Of the massive protests that took place on July 11 and 12 in several Cuban localities, with chants of "Patria y Vida," "Libertad," and "Fuera el comunismo," 600 protesters remain imprisoned out of the 1,500 detained. Among them are leaders of the San Isidro Movement, Luis Manuel Otero Alcántara and Maykel Osorbo, and from Unpacu, José Daniel Ferrer.
Understanding the Repressive Actions on the 11J Anniversary
Here are some frequently asked questions and answers to give more context to the repressive actions taken by the Cuban government on the third anniversary of the July 11 protests.
What is the significance of the July 11 protests in Cuba?
The July 11 protests were historic demonstrations in Cuba where thousands of citizens took to the streets demanding freedom, better living conditions, and an end to the communist regime. The protests were marked by chants for "Liberty," "Homeland and Life," and calls to end communism.
Who are some of the notable figures affected by the repressive actions?
Notable figures affected include José Luis Tan Estrada, Raymar Aguado Hernández, Alejandro Garlobo, Yunia Figueredo, Yoani Sánchez, Reinaldo Escobar, Yamilka Lafitta, Lara Croffs, members of the Damas de Blanco, and Guillermo "Coco" Fariñas, among others.
What actions have been taken by the Cuban government to suppress dissent?
The Cuban government has employed intimidation, harassment, surveillance by the political police, and internet blackouts to suppress dissent and prevent activists, journalists, and families of political prisoners from commemorating the anniversary of the protests.