Cuban activist Lara Crofs, whose real name is Yamilka Lafita, recently revealed on social media that State Security (SE) forces barred her from attending a farewell mass in Havana for the late Damir Ortiz. "They blocked my street to prevent me from going to the Mass. This new SE officer (regional) is behind it," Lafita noted in a Facebook post, sharing photos of police vehicles stationed outside her home.
The mass, led by Father Jorge Luis and scheduled for 4:00 p.m. at the Colón Cemetery chapel in Havana, offers a moment for the community to support Damir's grandmother in her goodbye.
In a live Facebook broadcast shortly after, Lafita expressed her longing to attend the ceremony but explained that the authorities' actions made it impossible. "It's crucial for people to understand that my inability to attend the mass isn't the focus," she declared. "This isn't about me personally; it's about a community coming together to show respect and solidarity," she emphasized.
Clearly distressed, she voiced her frustration: "I am incredibly frustrated right now," but reiterated her intent to avoid confrontation. "Today is not for confrontation, and it's not about me. If they want to criminalize my grief, that's on them," she insisted.
The activist assured that the mass would proceed as planned, asking those who could attend to do so on behalf of Damir's grandmother, who would be present. "I will pray from home at that hour, doing what I've always done," she added.
Lafita expressed deep gratitude to those who helped organize the event: "Thank you for the solidarity, the mental embrace, the 'being with you.' It's not about being with me; I'm just an idea and a voice among many."
During her address, she also highlighted the use of fear as a tool of repression: "I doubt they'd dare harm anyone inside a church or cemetery. This is meant to instill fear in me. Their issue is with me. Their issue is the exposure and the patriotism this case has sparked, which is beyond their control."
Despite the oppression, she urged calm: "Let us remain peaceful and united. In such trying times, we must strive to stay calm. Don't give in to anger or frustration, as we all feel it at some point because it's overwhelming."
She concluded with a message of resilience and commitment: "I must keep surviving because people still need me here. When I'm no longer needed, I'll board a plane and leave. But today is not that day."
Lafita continued to question the authorities in another live Facebook broadcast: "They say I can't leave because they'll arrest me. I don't understand what law I'm breaking. This is completely unnecessary," she criticized. "We're holding a mass for a child's repose. How can this be criminalized?"
She reflected on a similar experience when her mother passed away, recalling how SE filled her street with patrol cars. Earlier, she posted about the preparations for Damir's mass, stating, "The mass in Havana for Damir is nearly ready. Details on time and place will be shared later. Stay tuned to Idelisa Diasniurka Salcedo Verdecia's wall for updates."
She thanked everyone involved: "To those who stopped me on the street to offer a hug, to those who searched for the best printing and framing options, flowers... thank you all," Lafita expressed, sharing an image of the portrait prepared to honor the young boy: "This is how our warrior's portrait turned out."
Questions about State Security and Repression in Cuba
What actions did the Cuban State Security take against Lara Crofs?
The Cuban State Security blocked Lara Crofs' street to prevent her from attending a farewell mass for Damir Ortiz, a child who recently passed away.
Why did Lara Crofs criticize the government's actions?
Lara Crofs criticized the government's actions because she believes they are using fear to suppress her and prevent her from participating in a community event that is not politically motivated but rather a show of respect and solidarity.
What message did Lara Crofs convey to her supporters?
Lara Crofs urged her supporters to remain calm and united, not to succumb to anger or frustration, and to continue supporting the cause despite the oppressive actions of the authorities.