This week, the Cuban government launched "anti-imperialist community debates," propaganda-driven events aimed at attributing the country's ongoing crisis to the U.S. embargo and the policies of former President Donald Trump. According to a report from Cuban National Television on Friday, one such gathering took place in the Pilar-Atarés district of Havana's Cerro municipality and was led by former spy Gerardo Hernández Nordelo, the national coordinator of the Committees for the Defense of the Revolution (CDR).
During the "debate," officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MINREX) reiterated familiar arguments to absolve themselves of any blame for the severe hardships facing the Cuban people. They cited the alleged "damage" caused by the "blockade," which, in their view, underscores the "importance of continuing the anti-imperialist struggle." They stated, "Our anti-imperialism is deeply ingrained in our blood, our life, and our fight. We have a commitment to our youth and the future of Cuba."
Hernández Nordelo further accused the U.S. government of exacerbating the healthcare crisis during the COVID-19 pandemic by allegedly hindering medical supply imports. "This is their strange way of claiming to help our people. That’s why we hold meetings like this across the country, with neighbors, to discuss these issues, to explain why we are anti-imperialists and respect the American people, while talking about our history and differences with mutual respect," he expressed.
The ex-spy supported these revolutionary reaffirmation acts, which are set to continue through July. As reported by Prensa Latina, the goal is to "denounce the blockade imposed by the United States on the island for over 60 years, now intensified under President Donald Trump as part of the economic war," with plans for approximately 1,400 debates.
Last week, the Cuban government rolled out this new propaganda strategy, celebrating it even before its official announcement. These debates began in Hatibonico, in the municipality of Caimanera, Guantánamo province, attended by Yoel A. Pérez Bravo, the Communist Party's first secretary in the province. Despite the regime's insistence on the necessity of these meetings amid potential tightening of U.S. policies, the CDR has seen a significant decline in influence within Cuban society, resulting in dwindling participation in such events.
In a bid to boost attendance, Aranelys Barban Rodríguez, a member of the CDR's National Secretariat, invited Cubans to a "casino dance" event on February 22 at La Piragua in Havana, highlighting the authorities' desperation to sustain an organization that has lost much of its relevance and credibility.
Understanding the Cuban Government's Propaganda Strategy
What are "anti-imperialist community debates" in Cuba?
These are propaganda events organized by the Cuban government to blame the U.S. embargo and the Trump administration for the country's current crisis.
Who is Gerardo Hernández Nordelo?
Gerardo Hernández Nordelo is a former Cuban spy and the national coordinator of the Committees for the Defense of the Revolution (CDR).
How is the Cuban government trying to encourage participation in these debates?
The government is attempting to increase attendance by organizing events like a "casino dance" in Havana, demonstrating their struggle to maintain public interest and involvement.