Cuban opposition leader José Daniel Ferrer issued a bold challenge during an interview with Tania Costa, reflecting on his first year in exile. Ferrer declared that if someone could prove his efforts are in vain, he would return to Cuba by boat, even if it means facing imprisonment by the regime.
"If someone tells me today that I'm wasting my time and that nothing I've done is worthwhile, I'll go back immediately. Not like the regime's lackeys at the UN who were embarrassed yesterday. I'll feel ashamed right away and head back to Cuba, knowing it might be my end in the regime's prisons," stated the founder of the Patriotic Union of Cuba (UNPACU).
Ferrer made this statement following a disruptive incident at the UN on October 19, when Cuban diplomats led by Ambassador Ernesto Soberón Guzmán attempted to disrupt the "Free Cuba: The Oppression Hidden by Havana" forum by shouting accusations of "terrorists" and "liars" at Ferrer and artist Luis Manuel Otero Alcántara.
Undeterred, Ferrer reviewed his past year's accomplishments, which he described as positive: visiting 13 European capitals, engaging in discussions in Washington, and continuously supporting political prisoners and their families from abroad.
Advancing International Relations and Activism
"We've made progress in international relations. We're improving our efforts concerning political prisoners and increasing activism in Cuba. It's discreet, underground, with graffiti, stained billboards, and night bonfires—what we call freedom bonfires—while ensuring no one is endangered," Ferrer explained.
He also disclosed the existence of a clandestine medical assistance network: "We're working with doctors and medical staff who prefer to stay out of the spotlight. We tell them: if we send a patient to you, evaluate them, tell us what they need, and we'll provide the medicine."
Challenges in Supporting Political Prisoners' Families
One of the ongoing hurdles Ferrer faces from abroad is persuading families of political prisoners to accept aid. The regime often promises families their loved ones will fare better if they refuse external help, causing many to initially reject contact.
"Sometimes I've lost patience and said, 'I won't call again.' Yet, three months later, they reach out to me with a video," he shared, emphasizing that most eventually become aware of their situation.
Ferrer also collaborates with initiatives like Cuba Decide, Camino a la Democracia, and the Cuban Resistance Assembly. Following the UN incident, Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla labeled him a "convicted criminal" during a press conference in Havana, to which Ferrer responded with his trademark irony.
For Ferrer, the regime's reaction is evidence that his work is effective: "They know the harm our humble efforts cause to their regime. Therefore, they will assess the extent of the punishment."
The Global Context and the Fight for Truth
These statements come amid the regime's frantic response to the UN forum, occurring just days before the General Assembly's annual vote on the embargo, scheduled for October 27 and 28. International support for Cuba's resolution has dropped from 187 votes in 2024 to 136 in an extraordinary session held in July this year.
"Truth cannot be defended only occasionally. It must be upheld constantly because lies are tirelessly working around the clock," Ferrer concluded.
Frequently Asked Questions about José Daniel Ferrer's Efforts
What is José Daniel Ferrer's stance on returning to Cuba?
Ferrer stated he would return to Cuba if someone proved his efforts were pointless, even if it meant facing imprisonment by the regime.
How does Ferrer support political prisoners and their families from exile?
Ferrer provides support through international advocacy, clandestine networks, and encouraging families of political prisoners to accept assistance.
What was the reaction of the Cuban regime to Ferrer's activities?
The regime reacted negatively, with Cuban diplomats attempting to disrupt a UN forum Ferrer participated in and labeling him a "convicted criminal."