On Friday, numerous residents of Santiago took to the streets for the Hoyos Conga, an event organized annually by the government around this time to commemorate the triumph of the revolution. Known as the "Victory Parade," the procession kicked off at 1:00 PM from Paseo Martí, proceeded along Avenida de los Libertadores, and wound its way through key streets before concluding back at Paseo Martí.
Despite government efforts to portray this event as a harmless cultural celebration, journalist Yosmany Mayeta Labrada reports that the conga often features street fights and police repression. A video shared by Aris Arias Batalla, an employee of the Provincial Health Directorate, shows a group of police officers amidst the crowd. "A sea of people and police," Mayeta remarked in another post.
The event is characterized by "police violence and score-settling among individuals and rival gangs who use the chaotic scene to seek revenge," he elaborated. Many Cubans online criticize the large turnout for such events amidst the country's economic crisis, questioning whether there is any victory to celebrate beyond the power outages, hunger, violence, and long lines.
"With so many problems and yet they join the conga, it's truly unbelievable; this community has lost all respect," one mother commented. "Every place gets what it deserves. They march and all it takes is some rum and beer to get them partying; then they bow down to their leaders with handshakes, kisses, and hugs. Well, let them deal with it," stated a U.S. resident.
"They're happy with their conga, filth, alcohol, hunger, and blackouts," an internet user remarked. "It's meant to create a distorted image of reality, making it seem like people are joyous and content; the truth is, people enjoy it and just want to go out and dance, that's all," observed another.
"Despite hunger and need, without food, electricity, milk, coffee, or cigarettes. Without, without, without... yet they still want to dance. Later, they spend their lives complaining on social media," another critic emphasized.
In spite of the criticisms, a simultaneous casino wheel event is scheduled for this Saturday at 4:00 PM at Plaza Juvenil Ferreiro. On Tuesday, December 31st, starting at 10:00 PM, the traditional "party to the flag" will be celebrated in Santiago de Cuba.
Key Questions About the Hoyos Conga and Its Impact
What is the purpose of the Hoyos Conga in Santiago de Cuba?
The Hoyos Conga is an annual event organized by the government to commemorate the triumph of the Cuban revolution. It is portrayed as a cultural celebration but often criticized for underlying issues such as violence and police repression.
Why is the Hoyos Conga criticized by some Cubans?
Critics argue that the event creates a false image of happiness and contentment among the people while the country faces severe economic challenges, including power outages, hunger, and long lines for basic necessities.
How do residents and observers describe the atmosphere of the Hoyos Conga?
Participants and onlookers have described the event as chaotic, marked by police presence and instances of violence, while some see it as an excuse for revelry amidst challenging times.