Cuban singer and actress Lucrecia Pérez Sáez marked May 20 as a monumental day for Cuba. In an interview with CiberCuba, she expressed her reflections on the same day the U.S. Department of Justice announced formal charges against Raúl Castro for the 1996 shoot-down of the Brothers to the Rescue aircraft.
"This is a historic day. When I say historic, I mean it in the truest sense. It's history," the artist passionately declared, admitting that her excitement was so overwhelming she might not sleep that night.
"I know that after this interview, I'll probably be up all night, too excited to sleep. It's a beautiful feeling," she shared.
Lucrecia, who remains banned in Cuba for her music depicting the plight of those fleeing the regime on rafts, sees this indictment as proof that "everything is falling into place" and that Cuba can "rise like a phoenix."
"All Cubans are yearning for that moment of freedom because right now, we're in the ashes in Cuba," she concluded, describing the day as one of the most exhilarating of her life.
A Day of Significance
Journalist Tania Costa explained why she invited Lucrecia specifically for May 20, a day commemorating the establishment of the Republic of Cuba in 1902: "It's not just about pointing out the trash on the streets or the blackouts. People already know about these issues. It's about selling the hope that we are on the brink of freedom."
Lucrecia, who has lived in Barcelona since 1993 and is barred in Cuba for composing the soundtrack for the documentary "Balseros," emphasized that the day was not just a piece of news but a moment that will be etched in history books.
"I am genuinely proud to speak freely. It might reach who it reaches in different ways, but it is spoken with calmness and hope for the good of our people," she conveyed.
The charges against 94-year-old Raúl Castro include seven federal counts: one of conspiracy to kill U.S. citizens, four of homicide, and two for the destruction of civilian aircraft, linked to the February 24, 1996, shoot-down that claimed the lives of Armando Alejandre Jr., Carlos Costa, Mario de la Peña, and Pablo Morales.
Key Questions about Raúl Castro's Indictment and Cuban Freedom
What charges has Raúl Castro faced?
Raúl Castro faces seven federal charges, including conspiracy to kill U.S. citizens, four counts of homicide, and two counts related to the destruction of civilian aircraft.
Why is May 20 significant for Cuba?
May 20 is significant as it marks the day in 1902 when the Republic of Cuba was proclaimed, symbolizing a pivotal moment of national history.
Why is Lucrecia banned in Cuba?
Lucrecia is banned in Cuba due to her music, which portrays the struggles of those fleeing the regime, particularly through her work on the documentary "Balseros."