Amelia Calzadilla has taken to Facebook to counter a fresh wave of defamation against her by releasing a video compilation of her past speeches in Cuba, aimed at those who "conveniently choose to forget."
In the accompanying text, the Cuban activist, now exiled in Madrid, criticizes how some of her past statements from within the island have become a social media trend. She highlights the irony of those accusing her of "serving the dictatorship" while they align with the regime's representatives in this smear campaign. "It's always amusing to see how those accusing me of serving the dictatorship can align with the representatives of Castroism in this new smear campaign," she wrote.
The video features clips where Calzadilla directly challenges the regime's ministers: "How long will the people continue to pay for your comforts? A public servant means serving others, not the other way around."
In another segment, she highlighted the plight of 11,000 individuals facing similar issues accessing liquefied gas, a situation that escalated into a viral story on social media.
Demanding Change and Freedom
Calzadilla also used the video to call for a diversity of ideas in the Cuban Parliament and demanded the release of political prisoners, stating emphatically: "It's never okay to be in prison, sir. Never. The greatest punishment for a human being after death is the deprivation of liberty."
She described the pervasive fear among Cubans: "There's fear of exclusion, fear of abandonment, fear of being fired from workplaces, fear of physical assault, as we experienced on July 11 and after."
One of the video's most striking moments shows Calzadilla warning regime agents directly: "I remind you, security and DTI, that you have children, you have parents, and the government has turned its back on you."
Foundation of a New Political Initiative
This latest attack follows shortly after Calzadilla announced the creation of the Cuban Orthodox Liberal Party (PLOC), with the slogan "Justice, Dignity, and Prosperity."
The announcement received widespread support from both exiled and island-based Cubans but also drew mockery from the pro-government show Con Filo, whose hosts released a sarcastic video announcing "their own political party."
Calzadilla responded to Con Filo's mockery by stating she feels "proud" as it "reflects how much it pains them to know we, as a people, are ready to embrace country projects with open arms."
A Recurring Pattern of Defamation
The pattern is familiar: in 2022, official media orchestrated a campaign against Calzadilla after her viral video, labeling her message as "irritation management," and profiles linked to State Security attempted to discredit her with collages of supposed "luxuries."
The activist herself acknowledged this recurring strategy: "The ignorance of the foolish blinds them beyond their noses, and like in 2022, they unleash a campaign to dress me in a suit I never imagined wearing. And once more, I thank them."
Insights into Amelia Calzadilla's Activism and Challenges
Who is Amelia Calzadilla?
Amelia Calzadilla is a Cuban activist known for her outspoken criticism of Cuba's socialist regime. Currently exiled in Madrid, she continues to advocate for political reform and social justice in Cuba.
What is the Cuban Orthodox Liberal Party?
The Cuban Orthodox Liberal Party (PLOC) is a political initiative founded by Amelia Calzadilla, promoting values of justice, dignity, and prosperity for the Cuban people, offering an alternative to the current regime.
What challenges has Calzadilla faced from the regime?
Calzadilla has faced coordinated smear campaigns and defamation efforts by the Cuban regime, aimed at discrediting her activism and portraying her in a negative light.