Cuban singer and songwriter Descemer Bueno has publicly responded to recent remarks made by visual artist Michel Mirabal. In an interview with La Joven Cuba, Mirabal shared his experiences in Miami and contemplated the concept of freedom on the island.
Mirabal pointed out what he sees as a contradiction in how the Cuban diaspora is perceived in the United States. When visiting Miami, he encounters "wonderful people" who may disagree with the Cuban political system but have legitimate reasons for their frustration, having left behind their possessions and family.
Bueno countered Mirabal's interview with a message highlighting the critical need for freedom in Cuba. He emphasized that this absence of freedom has been ignored for over six decades. "What Cuba lacks is freedom," Bueno declared. "Freedom in the media, freedom of expression, freedom in every aspect. And they must stop stealing the pride, happiness, and dignity of the Cuban people," the musician asserted.
He further questioned, "What good is it to own the best farms and several houses if, when I step outside, I see sad faces, hungry people, misery, and streets full of trash?" Bueno attributed these conditions to "over 65 years of theft, evil, hunger, and misery," blaming a wealthy family for exploiting the country with public complicity.
Having lived in Miami for several years, Bueno expressed his dissatisfaction with Cuba's political system, condemning the repression and lack of space for dissent. "Gather the courage and speak the truth about your brothers," he challenged.
Cuban presenter Alex Otaola, who has repeatedly criticized the potential for reconciliation between the two sides of the Florida Straits as long as the Communist Party of Cuba (PCC) remains in power, also weighed in on the discussion. "Wonderful people who are disrespected with indoctrination and their support for the regime. Wonderful people whose families have been imprisoned since July 11th," he said, referring to the crackdown on July 11, 2021, protesters.
Others on the forum accused Mirabal of downplaying the term "dictatorship" by describing the Havana regime as a "system." Known as one of Cuba's most controversial visual artists, Mirabal may have ties to the establishment, yet he has expressed admiration for figures like former communist party leader Lázaro Expósito and gifted one of his works to singer Willy Chirino.
Understanding the Current Cuban Political Climate
What did Descemer Bueno say about the situation in Cuba?
Descemer Bueno emphasized the urgent need for freedom in Cuba, highlighting the lack of freedom in the media, expression, and various other facets of life. He criticized the ongoing theft and repression affecting the Cuban population.
What was Michel Mirabal's perspective on the Cuban diaspora?
Michel Mirabal noted what he saw as a contradiction in the perception of the Cuban diaspora in the United States, recognizing the legitimate frustrations of those who disagree with the Cuban political system but have left behind significant personal ties.
How did Alex Otaola respond to the ongoing debate?
Alex Otaola reiterated his stance against reconciliation with Cuba while the Communist Party remains in power, highlighting the ongoing repression and imprisonment of protesters from July 2021.