The audiovisual entertainment company "El Divino de Cuba" has called off a performance by a young artist initially set for Saturday, November 16, at Café Cantante Mi Habana, located within the National Theater of Cuba. This decision follows a wave of criticism and social media backlash concerning Osmany Pimentel Valdés's expressed political ideologies.
Pimentel, known for his work in cabaret, dance, and voice dubbing, and awarded titles such as "Mister Sugar 2023" and "Mister Babalu Islands 2024," was included in the event to broaden the artistic offerings and appeal to a diverse audience, according to the company. "El Divino de Cuba" stated in their announcement that they were previously unaware of Pimentel's political stance, emphasizing that their focus is solely on art and they do not consider ideological factors when planning events.
The company stressed, "Our policy is to create art," further stating that their mission is to offer inclusive aesthetic experiences and foster an environment free from prejudice and discrimination. Despite this stance, they opted to remove Pimentel from the lineup "to prevent misunderstandings and preserve the artistic integrity of the event."
The announcement concluded with an invitation to the public: "We welcome everyone to our Divine nights." The decision has sparked mixed reactions, with some viewing it as a prudent move to avoid conflicts, while others criticize it as an act of censorship in a nation where maintaining neutral artistic spaces seems exceedingly challenging.
Selective Censorship Sparks Outrage in Cuba
Activist Kiriam Gutiérrez Pérez, known for her advocacy for LGBTIQ+ rights and her outspoken criticism of the Cuban regime, voiced her anger at what she perceives as a double standard in cultural censorship. "Censorship in Cuba is selective. This is yet another example of how the memory and censorship of authorities and the ruling class appear to be shifting," Gutiérrez Pérez remarked on social media.
She condemned her own experiences with censorship for speaking out against the regime and defending her community. "I am censured for not staying silent, for being Kiriam Gutiérrez Pérez even amidst the harshest political and human repression, enduring violations of my right to work with dignity," she asserted.
Gutiérrez Pérez compared her situation to that of Osmany Pimentel, questioning why, despite his critical stance against the Castro regime, he was initially scheduled to perform. She pondered, "Can I begin working again now, or not? Will I be able to earn money to put food on my mother's table?"
Pimentel's Response Amidst the Controversy
Amidst the uproar, Osmany Pimentel announced his voluntary withdrawal from the performance. In a message directed at Gutiérrez Pérez, he expressed frustration over the impact the situation has had on his personal and professional life. "Due to your post, I am stepping down from tomorrow's show, a performance dedicated to my mother, who I haven't seen in almost two years due to work commitments and who was eager to see me perform," Pimentel stated, highlighting the sacrifices he made to prepare for the event, including expenses for dancers, costumes, and rehearsal time.
The artist questioned Gutiérrez Pérez about the repercussions of her statements: "Now I ask you, what did you achieve besides preventing me from performing? Will you find work? Will you do the same to other performers who rely on transforming arts for a living? I hope you are satisfied."