The Cuban Pride March against Homophobia and Transphobia, originally slated for this Sunday, May 17, in Havana, has been postponed until July. This decision was made by the National Center for Sexual Education (Cenesex), as announced by its director, Mariela Castro Espín, during the 19th Cuban Gala against Homophobia and Transphobia held last Thursday at the Teatro de Variedades América in Central Havana.
Castro Espín cited "the uncertainty of these days" as the reason for the postponement, referring explicitly to the severe electrical crisis plaguing Cuba. She mentioned that the march will now be part of the summer kickoff events in July.
According to the Cenesex director, the delay "will allow for better conditions to host the event and ensure the broad participation it is known for."
This announcement comes amid one of the worst weeks of blackouts in Cuba's recent history. Last Thursday, the electrical deficit during peak night hours was projected at 2,204 MW, setting a new historical record, with blackouts lasting between 20 and 22 hours daily in various parts of the country.
On Wednesday, May 13, Havana experienced a full 24-hour power outage.
That same Thursday, the National Electrical System experienced a partial collapse at 6:09 a.m., with only 636 MW available against a demand of 2,420 MW, leaving 74% of the demand unmet.
Extending the Fight Against Homophobia and Transphobia
Despite the postponement, Castro Espín emphasized that the National Day against Homophobia and Transphobia will extend beyond May with workshops, training sessions, courses, and dialogue spaces. "Even so," she stated, "we have the desire to continue celebrating our achievements in the field of human rights, individual rights, and sexual and gender diversity."
Next week, activities will take place in the province of Artemisa, the second location for this year's initiative.
During the gala at Teatro América, Cenesex recognized organizations and individuals notable for defending LGBTIQ+ rights, including Prosalud, psychologist Norma Guillard Limonta, the TransCuba Network, the Network of Lesbian and Bisexual Women, and activist Teresa de Jesús Fernández González.
Performers included musician Yarima Blanco, troubadour Adrián Berazaín, the Euphoria Glam company, the Parisien Cabaret, and various drag artists.
A History of Challenges
The march has faced numerous obstacles: it was canceled in 2019 by the government, prompting independent activists to organize an alternative march down Paseo del Prado, which ended with repression and detentions. In 2022, Castro canceled it out of respect for the victims of the Saratoga hotel explosion.
Last Thursday, Mariela Castro linked LGBTIQ+ activism with defending Cuban sovereignty against what she called a "hybrid war" by the United States, describing independent LGBTIQ+ opposition as "fictitious" and "mercenary."
The 2026 campaign is under the motto "Love is Law," although the most visible event on the calendar will be postponed until the electrical crisis, which has paralyzed the country, allows for a safe celebration, according to Cenesex.
Understanding Cuba's Electrical Crisis and Its Impact
What caused the delay of the Cuban Pride March?
The Cuban Pride March was postponed due to the severe electrical crisis that has led to extended blackouts across the country, impacting the ability to host such events safely and inclusively.
How is the electrical crisis affecting daily life in Cuba?
The electrical crisis has resulted in blackouts lasting up to 22 hours a day, disrupting daily activities and leaving a significant portion of the population without power.
What other activities are included in the National Day against Homophobia and Transphobia?
The National Day against Homophobia and Transphobia includes workshops, training sessions, courses, and spaces for dialogue, extending beyond May to promote human rights and diversity.