We are now witnessing massive protests across Cuba with protesters chanting ‘Patria y Vida,’ meaning ‘homeland and life.’ Patria y Vida is the theme of a song written by Cuban dissidents that has resonated with Cubans in dramatic contrast with the government’s slogan of ‘Patria o Muerte,’ or ‘homeland or death.’ The lyrics of Patria y Vida highlight the lack of freedom in Cuba. Patria y Vida has become the protester’s anthem.
Ahora vemos protestas masivas en toda Cuba con manifestantes que corean Patria y Vida, título de una canción escrita por disidentes cubanos, que resuena en dramático antagonismo con el lema del gobierno “Patria o Muerte”. La letra de Patria y Vida destaca la falta de libertad en Cuba y se ha convertido en el himno de los manifestantes.
The peaceful demonstrations that started on 11 July of 2021 asking for freedom, have shown the extraordinary courage and decision of the Cuban people and have revealed the dictatorship’s crimes against humanity, but they also have shown the apathy, fear, and weakness of democratic leaders and an international system that does not work.
