Recently released political prisoner Donaida Pérez Paseiro, who was jailed following the July 11 protests, has vowed to continue advocating for Cuba's freedom. "Back in my neighborhood, with my neighbors, my family, and those who truly care about me... We remain steadfast in our fight for my country's liberty and democracy because no one will silence me," Pérez asserted in a video circulating on social media.
"No one will make me bow my head. So we persist, alongside my family, my godchildren, and my neighbors," added the 53-year-old activist from Villa Clara, who leads the Association of Free Yorubas of Cuba. Sentenced to eight years in prison for her involvement in the 11J protests, she was held at the Guamajal Women’s Prison.
In further statements to the Latin American channel NTN24, Pérez reiterated her stance, emphasizing that political prisoners have long been the regime's "bargaining chips." Her husband, Loreto Hernández García, remains incarcerated, and she hopes for his release soon. "We will continue to fight for Cuba's freedom and are ready to share our experiences in prison and beyond with anyone who seeks to know," she declared.
Activist Jorge Luis García Pérez (Antúnez) revealed to ADN Cuba that authorities attempted to impose conditions on Donaida's release, which she refused. Upon her release, the judge warned her against broadcasting live, to which Donaida responded that she was not just any July 11 protester but a human rights activist for nearly three decades. She insisted that no one could buy her silence and was willing to return to her cell if faced with conditions.
Born in 1971, Donaida Pérez Paseiro is renowned for her role as president of the Association of Free Yorubas of Cuba, a santería community in the island. On July 11, 2021, she took part in the anti-government protests across Cuba. Just days later, on July 16, she surrendered to authorities in response to an arrest warrant. She was charged with public disorder, contempt, and assault against a public official.
In February 2022, the Santa Clara Municipal Popular Court sentenced her to eight years in prison, leading to her detention at the Guamajal Women’s Prison. Her situation drew international concern, especially regarding her health issues, as she suffers from hypertension and diabetes, conditions worsened by her imprisonment. In December 2021, she was hospitalized due to severe symptoms, and in July 2022, she contracted COVID-19 and was isolated in prison.
Organizations like Amnesty International have recognized Pérez Paseiro as a prisoner of conscience, demanding her immediate and unconditional release, arguing that her detention was solely due to her peaceful protest participation and religious leadership. Her husband, Loreto Hernández García, vice president of the same religious association, was also arrested and sentenced to seven years for his protests.
The arrests and sentences of Pérez Paseiro and her husband have been condemned as violations of religious and expression freedoms in Cuba, prompting international calls for their release.
Key Questions About Donaida Pérez's Release and Activism
What were the charges against Donaida Pérez Paseiro?
Donaida Pérez Paseiro was charged with public disorder, contempt, and assault against a public official following her participation in the July 11 protests in Cuba.
What health issues did Donaida face during her imprisonment?
Donaida Pérez suffered from hypertension and diabetes, which worsened during her incarceration. She also experienced severe symptoms leading to hospitalization and contracted COVID-19 in July 2022.
Who is Donaida Pérez Paseiro's husband, and what is his situation?
Her husband, Loreto Hernández García, is the vice president of the Association of Free Yorubas of Cuba. Like Donaida, he was arrested for participating in the protests and sentenced to seven years in prison.