In a new example of the coercion that defines the Cuban regime, the Government and the Communist Party organized a day of "voluntary" work to commemorate the 98th anniversary of Fidel Castro's birth. Yaisa Borrero shared a gallery of photos this Sunday in the Facebook group "La Gente del Salao," where very few people are seen participating.
The person who posted the photos claimed that Party and Government officials were involved in the work carried out in the Haydee Santamaría Popular Council, where they were forced to participate in an activity that was far from voluntary. In the images, officials can be seen weeding around the propaganda billboards of the Revolution and the Moncada Barracks attackers, located on the Siboney road. These types of tasks, more symbolic than productive, highlight the forced nature of an activity presented as "voluntary."
In the comments section, several users pointed out that the regime, instead of organizing activities that genuinely address the population's needs, frequently arranges tasks considered useless and disconnected from the real problems of the people. However, such activities were not limited to Santiago de Cuba.
Nationwide "Voluntary" Work
Internet user Suren Marzan shared another gallery of photos on Facebook documenting a similar "voluntary" work dedicated to Fidel Castro, in commemoration of his 98th birthday. The images show children cleaning the streets of a CDR in Santiago de Cuba, further illustrating the indoctrination they are subjected to from an early age in the country.
In the province of Pinar del Río, at the El Pitirre Seed Farm, the imposed celebration was also evident: "Let's plant sweet potato vines," read the call to action. In Havana, young communists from the army carried out a "voluntary" task at the Central House of the FAR, where they poured sand on the beach under the pretext of "increasing vacationers' satisfaction" and "improving the morphological conditions" of the place. This activity, presented as a tribute, underscores the continued exploitation of youth in tasks that have little practical relevance.
The Cuban regime, whose voluntary blood donation program has weakened in recent years due to increasing migration, has called for several activities to mark the 98th anniversary of Fidel Castro's birth. The Citizen Portal of Havana reported on its website that the CDRs have called for mass blood donations for Monday, August 12, and Tuesday, August 13, in a gesture to commemorate Fidel Castro's birthday, once again highlighting the political manipulation of these campaigns.
Common Questions About Forced "Voluntary" Work in Cuba
To provide more insight into the issues surrounding forced "voluntary" work in Cuba, here are some frequently asked questions and their answers.
Why does the Cuban government organize forced "voluntary" work?
The Cuban government organizes these activities to maintain control and demonstrate loyalty to the regime. These tasks are often symbolic and used to reinforce the regime's propaganda.
Are these "voluntary" activities truly voluntary?
No, despite being labeled as voluntary, participation is often mandatory, especially for government and Party officials, as well as the youth.
What is the impact of these activities on the Cuban population?
These activities often divert attention and resources from addressing the real needs and problems faced by the Cuban population, leading to frustration and discontent.