Lis Cuesta, the wife of Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel, acknowledged International Women's Day on March 8 by praising Cuban women. Her remarks came with a nod to the "difficult times," sparking widespread criticism on social media.
"Congratulations to Cuban women, a special kiss to my MOTHER, a founder of the FMC, who taught me to love VILMA; also to my fellow comrades, my FEDERATED FRIENDS. Times are tough, but without you, they'd be worse," Cuesta expressed on X.
The backlash was swift.
"Cuban women don't need your congratulations; we need a dignified life," demanded one Cuban woman.
Others seized the moment to remind her that her tenure in power might be limited.
"When shame is scarce, this happens—lots of congratulations, few actions. Since you love Vilma, ask her spirit for guidance because the tough times your husband and the dictatorial regime have caused will soon befall you. We promise," an internet user remarked.
"Oh Machi, enjoy what little time is left. Look how Silita ended, from luxury to a cell, hahaha bye, you were loved. We'll miss your love poems," another quipped sarcastically.
The Backlash Against Díaz-Canel's Women's Day Message
Miguel Díaz-Canel's International Women's Day message, broadcasted on the official profiles of the Presidency and himself, incited a flood of reactions on social media on March 8.
As the nation grapples with an unprecedented systemic crisis, the public response was marked by critical, ironic, and overtly rejecting comments contrasting the official rhetoric with the harsh reality faced by millions of Cuban women.
In one of his messages, Díaz-Canel claimed that engaging with Cuban women "always ennobles, emancipates" and praised the "achievements" made by them during the so-called "revolution."
In another post, he stated, "the light of our days owes much to women: sensitivity, talent, and commitment to the country's fate," sharing an interview with a scientist involved in the photovoltaic field.
However, the official focus on "light," "sensitivity," and "achievements" immediately clashed with the dark humor and outrage of numerous comments, many highlighting the daily struggles of blackouts, food shortages, water scarcity, and the severe hardships disproportionately affecting women.
The most repeated phrase, in various forms, was a simple yet devastating question: "What light?"
Questions Surrounding Cuban Women's Plight
What did Lis Cuesta say about Cuban women on International Women's Day?
Lis Cuesta congratulated Cuban women, acknowledging the difficult times and expressing that without them, the situation would be worse.
How did social media react to Díaz-Canel's Women's Day message?
The message was met with a deluge of critical, ironic, and rejecting comments, highlighting the contrast between official rhetoric and the difficult realities faced by Cuban women.