Prominent Cuban scholar and essayist Alina Bárbara López publicly condemned the regime's theatrical attempts to create an illusion of normalcy in Cuba, despite the nation's severe crisis. Through a Facebook post on Wednesday, López delved into the concept of "simulation," highlighting how the government has mastered the art of pretending life is perfectly ordinary.
"I am astounded by the tactics that Cuba's leaders have devised to make it seem as though everything is fine, that we are progressing, and that life is normal," López wrote. She emphasized that the authorities are fully aware of the dire situation on the island, and she doubts they are trying to deceive the public given the evident hardships.
"You only need to listen to the conversations of people, even strangers, in the many lines we have to form for almost anything," she pointed out.
The Illusion of Change
As a specific instance of this "surreal charade," López described sudden changes in her neighborhood in anticipation of visits from high-ranking officials. Workers have been dispatched to tidy up neglected green areas, repaint utility poles and sidewalks, and even decorate with Cuban flag colors, albeit using an ochre shade instead of the usual red.
Yet, these superficial improvements starkly contrast with the everyday reality faced by residents, who continue to endure power outages, stagnant sewage, and overflowing garbage: "It doesn't matter that the real function of the 'aestheticized' poles, to support the electric cables, is meaningless because, for instance, we have been without electricity since yesterday afternoon."
López also shared photos illustrating the discrepancy between the intended appearance and the daily struggles of the population. One particularly striking image depicts a small Cuban flag standing amid a heap of trash: "An allegory of a suffering nation yet one still holding onto hope? I choose to believe so. I find solace in that image of resilience."
A Voice of Dissent
The Cuban academic and activist has been a formidable critic within the intellectual community in Cuba. Her advocacy for free expression and activism has made her a target for government reprisals.
In August 2024, López and writer Jorge Fernández Era were arbitrarily detained after attempting a peaceful protest in Havana. Both have faced harassment for their dissenting views and participation in protests. López has continuously asserted her right to free speech, using social media to decry the ongoing violations of Cuban citizens' rights.
Just weeks later, in September 2024, the Union of Writers and Artists of Cuba (UNEAC) announced her expulsion, citing her "activities against the revolution." This decision sparked widespread condemnation among intellectuals and artists, including actor Luis Alberto García, who called it a "monumental mistake" and an act of political censorship.
Despite these retaliations, López Hernández remains unwavering in her commitment to advocating for civil rights in Cuba. She has spoken out against harassment by State Security and continues to express her views through social media and independent outlets, vowing to persist in her fight for a nation where fundamental freedoms are respected.
Key Insights into Alina Bárbara López's Criticisms
What does Alina Bárbara López criticize about the Cuban regime?
Alina Bárbara López criticizes the Cuban regime for creating a facade of normalcy while the country faces a severe crisis, describing it as a "surreal charade."
How has López been affected by her criticism of the government?
López has faced arbitrary detention, expulsion from the Union of Writers and Artists of Cuba (UNEAC), and ongoing harassment due to her outspoken criticism and activism.
What actions have been taken in López's neighborhood to create an illusion of change?
In her neighborhood, workers have been deployed to clean and repaint neglected areas and to decorate with Cuban flag colors, despite ongoing basic utility issues like power outages.