Last week, Baby Lores visited Cuba, primarily to reunite with his ailing grandmother after a six-year separation. What was intended to be a simple family visit quickly turned into a controversial event, first due to the actions of Cuban security forces, and then because of criticisms on social media.
In an Instagram post, the singer shared, "This has been one of the toughest trips I've undertaken. I returned to Cuba to see my grandmother, who is currently hospitalized. I also took the opportunity to reconnect with my longtime friend, Volty, who was recording an interview at the Hotel Habana Libre. During our heartfelt conversation about freedom, truth, and the injustices we face in our country, the interview was suddenly halted by security agents."
Later, as he was dropping his friend off at home, he was stopped by the police in the street. "This experience further clarified for me the cost of speaking out in a nation where censorship and oppression prevail. But they won't silence me. Let's continue to denounce the lack of freedom. Change is necessary," he stated.
Baby Lores' trip to Cuba drew criticism from Alexander Otaola, who openly questioned the artist's narrative: "If you don't want to take this risk, dear Lores, don't go to Cuba, it's simple. Anyone who goes there is stepping into no man's land. I understand the family reasons, the grandmother, but Claudia Valdés also had family reasons and ended up dancing with Ana de Armas."
In an interview with "Destino Tolk," Baby Lores addressed the backlash: "You have two choices, either disconnect entirely and forget about your family, don't send them money because you're doing the same thing; let them starve out of conviction or do what some people like me have chosen to do. You have to shed that ego, that pride, of being what society expects you to be."
"To me, the hug I gave my grandmother is worth more than anything people might say on social media," the artist affirmed.
"I am at peace and happy with myself, and if I need to go back to give another hug to my grandma, my mom, or whatever they need, I will do it as long as it's within my power, and I don't need anyone's permission. These are my decisions, and that's the freedom of a human being," Baby Lores added.
Understanding Baby Lores' Controversial Trip to Cuba
Why did Baby Lores travel to Cuba?
Baby Lores traveled to Cuba primarily to see his sick grandmother, whom he hadn't seen in six years.
What challenges did Baby Lores face during his trip?
During his trip, Baby Lores faced interruptions from security forces during an interview and was later stopped by the police, highlighting the oppressive environment in Cuba.
How did Baby Lores respond to criticism regarding his travel?
Baby Lores emphasized the importance of family and expressed that personal decisions should not require public approval, valuing the connection with his family over social media opinions.