The protest symbol "Raise It Mayeta," which captures the grievances of the people of Santiago de Cuba sent to independent journalist Yosmany Mayeta Labrada, has taken a new form as a protest conga. This popular hashtag on social media has now become an active demonstration.
The journalist himself shared a reel on Facebook showing a large group of young people performing a conga, using makeshift musical instruments while chanting "Raise It Mayeta."
A Traditional Medium for Modern Protest
Congas, a musical genre deeply embedded in the tradition of Santiago de Cuba, have historically been a spontaneous expression of the community's struggles, problems, and adversities. These performances often serve as a platform for public grievances through their "coritos" or choruses.
"'Raise It Mayeta,' the new protest-conga that has spread throughout Santiago de Cuba," Mayeta noted in the message accompanying the video shared on social media.
Mayeta as a Voice of the People
In recent years, the independent journalist has become a vocal critic of the injustices perpetrated by the Cuban regime in Santiago de Cuba, exposing secrets that the government attempts to keep hidden. Over time, Mayeta has earned the trust of the community, becoming a symbol of hope for those seeking solutions to their problems and justice in the face of oppression.
As a result, various individuals, including artists, have sought to elevate the "Raise It Mayeta" symbol, turning it into an icon of protest.
Artist Repression and Police Intimidation
Recently, urban musicians Lico Wayne and Tino Mán were summoned to the "La Motorizada" Police Station and threatened with reprisals if they recorded the music video for the song "Raise It Mayeta." The artists had planned to film the video but were unable to attend the set due to a police summons, as reported by Mayeta on Facebook.
Similarly, music producer Asdrúbal Reyna, known in Santiago de Cuba for his collaborations with various street artists under the "Guetto Music" label, was detained and taken to La Motorizada because of his involvement in the production of the song "Raise It Mayeta." However, independent journalist Mayeta alerted on Facebook that the reasons for Reyna's arrest and his whereabouts were unknown.