Cuban activist Amelia Calzadilla, known for her outspoken criticism of Cuba's economic crisis and lack of freedoms, has sent a resounding message to the people of the island through her social media platforms. She asserts her right to engage in political discourse without needing anyone's permission. Now living in exile in Spain, Calzadilla has accused the Cuban State Security of orchestrating a smear campaign against her. However, she emphasizes that her words are not intended to sway foreign diplomats, activists, or opposition figures. "I speak to the Cuban people, and I will continue to do so," she declared.
Calzadilla described the campaign against her as a "media assassination that, State Security, is not working out well for you." She emphasized her connection with many Cuban mothers who resonate with her message and recounted the threats and harassment she endured while in Cuba. The psychological and economic toll on her family due to her social media activism was significant, but she remains steadfast in her stance that she does not need permission to participate politically.
The activist accused the Havana regime of employing misinformation and harassment tactics to tarnish her reputation and stifle her activism. In her statement, she firmly denied appearing in a viral video that purportedly ties her to a 2010 repudiation rally against the Ladies in White. At the time, Calzadilla was about 19 years old, and she categorically refuted claims of her involvement, providing photos from those years to prove she was not the individual in the video. "The woman in the video is older and shorter. I'm 1.70 meters tall and was very thin back then," she clarified.
Calzadilla also seized the opportunity to call on the international community to remain vigilant against the Cuban regime's attempts to suppress freedom of expression on the island. Her message was unequivocal: "I will not stop in my fight for justice and truth. My commitment remains with the people of Cuba." She concluded her message with a vision for Cuba's future—a nation where truth is told to children and every Cuban who has emigrated can return home.
In conjunction with Calzadilla's denunciations, on February 13, Mike Hammer, the head of the U.S. Diplomatic Mission in Cuba, met with Calzadilla and other members of the organization Citizenship and Freedom in Madrid. This group, established in 2023, aims to promote civil and political rights in Cuba, advocating for an active and informed society where citizens can engage without fear of reprisal.
Key Questions on Amelia Calzadilla's Activism and Challenges
What accusations has Amelia Calzadilla faced from the Cuban government?
Amelia Calzadilla has been targeted by a smear campaign allegedly orchestrated by Cuban State Security, accusing her of involvement in a repudiation rally against the Ladies in White in 2010, which she denies.
How has Amelia Calzadilla responded to the misinformation campaign?
Calzadilla has publicly denied the accusations, provided evidence to refute them, and continues to advocate for freedom of expression and political participation without fear.
What is the mission of the organization Citizenship and Freedom?
Established in 2023, Citizenship and Freedom is dedicated to promoting civil and political rights in Cuba, fostering an informed and active society where citizens can participate without fear of reprisal.