Marking the 25th anniversary of the Roundtable show, Elian Gonzalez, once the "child symbol" of Cuban propaganda, delivered a highly emotional speech filled with praise for both the television program and Fidel Castro. Fighting back tears, Gonzalez expressed immense gratitude, asserting that the show played a pivotal role in shaping him into the person he is today, as seen in a video shared by the program's official YouTube channel.
"I truly became who I am because of you," he declared, crediting the program with molding his character. According to him, the show not only allowed the people to understand his "cause" but also served as the cornerstone for him to build a family and become "a grateful, committed, and happy person." It seems the miracle of Cuban television not only informs but also crafts individuals to its liking.
With a solemn tone, Gonzalez delved into his connection with Fidel Castro, expressing regret for having met him at such a young age: "If I have any regret, it is knowing him too young and losing him equally young." These words were spoken as he expressed a wish to have been reprimanded by the commander in his adulthood to straighten his life, as he believes Fidel's corrections marked a turning point for him.
In a moment of clarity, Elian acknowledged that it wasn't him who gave life to the Roundtable, but rather the opposite: "I am convinced that the Roundtables didn't start because of her. I am convinced that our commander initiated them."
Elian's speech made it clear that he remains the ideal icon of an official narrative that demands eternal gratitude, devotion to a television program, and the deification of a leader. For him, the Roundtable is not just a space for analysis but also a place where grateful souls are forged, committed to honoring someone who, according to him, should still be scolding him from beyond.
It's hard not to wonder if his speech moved the audience as much as it may have made them smile ironically. Because if the Roundtable truly "creates people," one might question what other hidden capabilities this state television show possesses, which, according to Elian, seems almost miraculous.
Insights into Elian Gonzalez's Reflections
What did Elian Gonzalez credit the Roundtable show for?
Elian Gonzalez credited the Roundtable show for playing a crucial role in shaping him into the person he is today, attributing the program with molding his character and life.
How did Elian Gonzalez express his connection with Fidel Castro?
Elian Gonzalez expressed regret for meeting Fidel Castro at a young age and wished he had received guidance from him during adulthood, emphasizing the impact of Fidel's corrections on his life.