The state-run newspaper Trabajadores recently published an online commentary discussing the incident that took place last Thursday involving Cuban reggaeton artist José Manuel Carbajal Zadívar, known as El Taiger. The article accuses the artist of having fallen prey to what it describes as "a violent society like the United States."
Authored by the newspaper’s director, Joel García León, the piece is heavily influenced by the ideological stance dictated by the Communist Party and its affiliated organizations, which guide Cuban journalism. García León emphasizes the need for objective reporting on the attack that left El Taiger in critical condition in a Miami hospital, irrespective of the controversies surrounding his lifestyle and music. He stresses that a human life surpasses any social judgments or musical preferences.
Criticism of U.S. Policies
While highlighting the importance of unbiased news coverage, the article does not miss the opportunity to critique U.S. policies by pointing out the pervasive violence and insecurity even in areas where artists reside. It suggests that these issues contradict the often idealized perception of the United States.
"This post isn't about debating music. It's to illustrate that José Manuel Carvajal Zaldívar's life is paramount, and being a victim of such a violent society as the U.S. is not an exception, but the norm," the article states.
Lack of Domestic Coverage
Although the article doesn't directly address Cuba's internal situation, it attempts to justify the scarcity of national coverage on the incident, despite its international attention. The investigation into the shooting, which left the reggaeton artist with a head wound, is still underway.
In a show of solidarity, dozens of Cubans gathered Friday night for a prayer vigil, holding white candles in hopes of El Taiger's recovery.