The radio community and cultural sector in Guantánamo are in mourning following the loss of Marlene Salazar, a celebrated figure who passed away early Tuesday morning. Salazar, who was awarded the National Radio Prize, was a prominent personality in the province. Her accolades include the Hermandad Distinction, the Raúl Gómez García Medal granted by the National Union of Culture Workers, and the prestigious National Radio Prize, as mentioned by Guantánamo's Provincial Culture Directorate on social media.
As a member of UNEAC, Salazar was renowned for her tireless advocacy of Martí's works and philosophies. The official profile extended heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, and colleagues, marking her loss as irreplaceable. On social media, many have been sharing memories of Salazar's impactful career and inspiring personality.
One Facebook user, Elo Carnet, reminisced, "I want to remember you as a teacher and role model. I regret never having worked with you, thinking... 'Work with Marlene to learn more and more,' but I never had the opportunity." Carnet added, "I have been directed by excellent radio program directors but always wished to collaborate with you. Your simplicity and eloquence will be missed. Rest in peace, as you remain the new pines, and we, the flower."
A Legacy in Cuban Radio and Culture
Similarly, Nancy Silega shared, "Marlene Salazar, a beacon of Cuban Radio and Guantánamo culture, has passed away. Her work profoundly influenced my life and our mutual admiration, the shared UNEAC gatherings, and our recent conversations will be cherished, as well as that last embrace at her home, CMKS of Guantánamo Radio." Silega also offered a heartfelt message to Salazar's family: "Go in peace, creative and unique soul. Thank you for your guidance. My condolences to her son Sergio, beloved grandchildren, and her entire family."
In recent days, several notable figures with Cuban ties have passed away. Among them, Luis Zayas Travieso, the last Cuban resident with experience in the Cuban Professional League, died in Havana at 87. He played for the Havana and Cienfuegos teams before Fidel Castro came to power in 1959.
Additionally, jazz and blues singer Bárbara Dane, the mother and grandmother of Cuban musicians Pablo and Osamu Menéndez, passed away at 97 in her Oakland, California home after a long struggle with heart failure. Pablo Menéndez, one of her four children, expressed his emotions on Facebook with a simple yet powerful message: "Peace, love... and music. We must continue the fight."