In the community of Marea del Portillo, located in the Pilón municipality of Granma province, residents welcomed the New Year with a unique twist on a Cuban tradition: burning effigies. This year, they decided to use the name of a well-known Cuban-American senator to symbolize what they wished to leave behind in the old year.
Ysneri Oliva, a Facebook user, posted a photo of the event, noting, "We are bidding farewell to the old year to welcome the new one with prosperity and joy, so that the people feel happy here on Pantaleón Street, and that all Cubans can celebrate with this initiative." The image shows a man posing next to two dummies constructed from old clothes, straw, and cardboard. One of the effigies bears a sign across its chest with the name "Marco Rubio."
At the base of the effigies, several bottles of alcoholic beverages are visible, likely intended as part of the festive atmosphere but probably used to ignite the effigy. The scene is set against a rustic backdrop typical of rural neighborhoods in this Cuban region.
The Tradition and Its Symbolism
The burning of effigies is a deeply rooted tradition in Cuba and other Latin American countries, representing the cleansing of the past year's misfortunes while welcoming hopes and dreams for prosperity in the coming year. Selecting Marco Rubio as the figure for the effigy is a gesture laden with political symbolism.
Marco Rubio's Influence in Cuban-American Politics
Marco Rubio has been a prominent critic of the Cuban regime. Over the years, he has gained recognition for his strong stance against the Cuban government and his influence on U.S. policies toward the island.
The newly elected U.S. President, Donald Trump, announced Rubio's appointment as the new Secretary of State, making him the highest-ranking Latino in the history of the U.S. government. Trump described him as "a highly respected leader and a powerful voice for freedom." This appointment underscores Rubio's role in shaping U.S. policies toward Latin America and his dedication to defending democracy in the region.
Understanding the Symbolism of Effigy Burning in Cuba
What is the significance of burning effigies in Cuban culture?
Burning effigies in Cuban culture symbolizes the eradication of negative aspects from the previous year and the welcoming of new hopes and aspirations for prosperity in the upcoming year.
Why was Marco Rubio chosen as the effigy figure in this celebration?
Marco Rubio was chosen as the effigy figure due to his critical stance against the Cuban government, making his representation in this tradition a politically symbolic gesture.