Loreto Hernández García, a political prisoner and the head of the Free Yorubas of Cuba Association, turns 55 today while detained in Guamajal Prison, located in Villa Clara. This information was reported to Martí Noticias by his brother, former political prisoner Jorge Luis García Pérez, known as Antúnez.
"I want to inform that my brother is turning 55 today, imprisoned for his peaceful participation in the protests that shook Cuba on July 11, 2021," stated Antúnez.
Hernández García received a seven-year prison sentence for his involvement in the July 11 demonstrations in Placetas, Villa Clara. His wife, Donaida Pérez Paseiro, who is also the president of the same organization and a Yoruba priestess with nearly three decades of activism, is likewise incarcerated in Guamajal with an eight-year sentence for the same actions.
Health Challenges in Detention
Antúnez highlighted the severe health challenges both face in the Villa Clara prison: Hernández García suffers from uncontrolled diabetes, respiratory issues, pancreatitis, ischemic heart disease, and high blood pressure, while Pérez Paseiro endures severe bone pain and extremely high blood pressure.
Their daughter, Rosabel Sánchez, described her father's condition in April: "As he spoke, he became short of breath and fatigued."
"Despite these serious health issues, they remain imprisoned," Antúnez noted, condemning the couple's sentences as unjust.
Systematic Abuse and Racism Allegations
Antúnez also condemned the systematic abuses they have faced since their imprisonment, stating, "They have been victims of countless mistreatments, assaults, beatings, and denial of their rights... even due to the color of their skin, their political beliefs, and their religious vocation."
Pérez Paseiro was briefly released in January 2025 under a conditional release program that benefited 553 individuals. However, Cuban authorities revoked her conditional release on June 11 of that year, citing non-compliance with obligations. Activists claim this decision was politically motivated, as Pérez Paseiro continued to publicly demand the release of prisoners of conscience.
Calls for Release and International Support
Amnesty International has repeatedly called for the release of the Yoruba leaders, recognizing them as prisoners of conscience. "Their unwavering commitment to their beliefs and their fight for a Cuba free from oppression has brought suffering to them, their families, and their community, but their spirits remain unbroken," the organization stated.
In October 2023, the United States also called for the release of the two religious leaders in Cuba. Brian Nichols, then Assistant Secretary of State for Western Hemisphere Affairs, pointed out that Hernández García is imprisoned "not just for dissent, but for expressing religious beliefs."
Antúnez used his brother's birthday as an occasion to extend his denunciation: "This serves as a denunciation for all political prisoners who have to spend significant dates like birthdays, Christmas, and all human celebrations behind bars."
Frequently Asked Questions about Political Prisoners in Cuba
Who is Loreto Hernández García?
Loreto Hernández García is a political prisoner and the president of the Free Yorubas of Cuba Association. He is currently serving a seven-year prison sentence for his participation in protests against the Cuban government.
What health issues are Hernández García and Donaida Pérez Paseiro facing?
Hernández García is dealing with uncontrolled diabetes, respiratory problems, pancreatitis, ischemic heart disease, and hypertension. Pérez Paseiro suffers from severe bone pain and extremely high blood pressure.
What actions have international organizations taken regarding their imprisonment?
Amnesty International has called for their release, recognizing them as prisoners of conscience. The United States has also urged for their freedom, highlighting the political and religious repression faced by the couple.