On Thursday, the feminist organization Alas Tensas (OGAT) confirmed the tragic occurrence of two additional femicides in Cuba, along with two attempted femicides. One harrowing incident took place between November 26 and 27 in the city of Santiago de Cuba, where 37-year-old Eglis Pacheco López was the victim of a home invasion that escalated into a sexual femicide.
The brutality of the attack, which included a corrective sexual assault seemingly incited by the victim's sexual orientation, left behind a 15-year-old son, as the platform shared on Facebook. This incident underscores the pervasive nature of gender-based violence in the country.
The second case involves a young girl named Deyanira, only 15 years old, who was murdered by her partner in the early hours of November 1 on a public street in Santiago de Cuba. OGAT is actively seeking assistance to gather further details surrounding this heinous act.
According to data compiled by OGAT and Yo Sí Te Creo en Cuba (YSTCC) up to December 19, 2024, there have been a total of 55 femicides, eight attempted femicides, and six cases that still require further police investigation. Additionally, two murders of men motivated by gender issues have been reported.
Despite the considerable obstacles in accessing information, activists and concerned citizens remain committed to shedding light on these crimes and documenting them rigorously, as emphasized by Cuba's feminist platforms. They urge the public to support and take action in the ongoing fight against the rising tide of gender violence in the nation.
Understanding Femicide and Gender-Based Violence in Cuba
What is femicide?
Femicide refers to the intentional killing of women because of their gender. It is considered the most extreme form of violence against women.
How many femicides have been reported in Cuba in 2024?
Up until December 19, 2024, there have been 55 reported cases of femicide in Cuba.
What challenges do Cuban activists face when addressing gender-based violence?
Activists face significant difficulties in accessing reliable information and support, which hampers their ability to effectively document and combat gender-based violence.