Carolina Barrero, the executive director of Citizenship and Freedom, recently shared her aspirations for Cuba in an interview from Berlin. She envisions a thriving nation, where families stay united, the land is fertile, architectural heritage is preserved, and a diverse democracy holds politicians accountable to the people.
At the heart of her vision lies the family, which she describes as "the primary victim of Castroism."
"I know this all too well because I was born into a family split by immigration. My grandparents raised me while my parents left," said Barrero, who was forced into exile in February 2022, directly from a Villa Marista cell to Madrid.
Her dream for Cuba is, above all, a place where no one feels compelled to leave out of necessity or fear.
"I dream of a Cuba filled with united, prosperous families. Families that, if they wish to travel, do so to explore the world... But they shouldn't have to flee from a pursuing dictatorship or a place devoid of hope and opportunities," she expressed.
Barrero also reminisces about the cultural and architectural Cuba her grandfather described: the vibrant nation of the 1920s through the 1950s.
"I wish for a Cuba that retains its magic, charm, and glamour, just as it was. The Cuba my grandfather spoke of," she remarked, urging that cities like Havana, Santiago, Cienfuegos, and Camagüey preserve their unique identities rather than becoming homogenized.
She recalled that Cuba once boasted the highest number of movie theaters globally, highlighting its rich tradition in theaters and literature.
On the economic front, Barrero calls for a return to productive agriculture.
She criticized Fidel Castro for destroying the fruit trees of Havana's cordon to plant Caturra coffee, decimating tropical fruit production. She contrasted this with 1959, when Cuba had more than one head of cattle per 1.4 people and exported milk to Canada.
Barrero also condemned the ecological disaster in Moa, caused by nickel mining operations run by the Canadian company Sherritt International in partnership with the Cuban state.
"Moa is a place... when you look at satellite images, it's a dead, black land. The color has changed. And this was done by the Canadians with impunity," she stated, noting the high cancer rates among local residents.
She called for companies like Sherritt and Meliá to be held accountable and pay compensation, reminding that joint contracts with the regime paid Cuban workers only 10% to 15% of their actual wages.
In the political arena, Barrero advocates for a pluralistic parliament, explicitly rejecting a two-party system.
"For me, pluralism is crucial. It shouldn't be bipartisan. It should be a place of health, free from polarization, where democratic culture and respect for political dissent thrive," she declared.
While not ruling out participation in such a parliament, she clarified that she might also "be doing something else."
She emphasized that "a seat in parliament is not power" and that lawmakers are there to address citizens' issues like water, electricity, and prosperity, as the people "hold the real power."
In closing, Barrero shared a personal announcement: this fall, she will begin her doctorate at the University of Miami, which means spending more time in that city while maintaining her presence in Europe.
"Wherever I need to be, a nomad dismantling the regime's lies, that's where I'll be. Carolina Barrero has been and will continue to be there," she concluded.
Carolina Barrero's Vision for a Future Cuba: FAQ
What is the core focus of Carolina Barrero's vision for Cuba?
The core focus of Barrero's vision for Cuba is the family, which she considers the primary victim of Castroism. She envisions a Cuba where families are united and prosperous, without the necessity to leave due to fear or lack of opportunities.
How does Barrero view Cuba's architectural and cultural heritage?
Barrero cherishes the architectural and cultural heritage of Cuba, reminiscent of the 1920s to 1950s. She desires to preserve the unique identity and charm of Cuban cities like Havana, Santiago, Cienfuegos, and Camagüey.
What economic changes does Barrero advocate for?
Barrero calls for the revitalization of Cuba's agricultural sector, criticizing past policies that destroyed fruit production. She contrasts the current situation with 1959 when Cuba was a significant producer and exporter of agricultural goods.
What is Barrero's stance on Cuba's political future?
Barrero advocates for a pluralistic and non-bipartisan political system in Cuba. She emphasizes the importance of a democratic culture, respect for political differences, and the need for politicians to address the citizens' fundamental needs.