STEPS to FREEDOM 2006 a Comparative Analysis of Civic Resistance in Cuba from February 2006 Through January 2007

Home , Angel Moya Acosta, Brothers to the Rescue, Circuito Norte, FOCSA Building, Gag Law (Puerto Rico), Havana Cathedral

STEPS TO FREEDOM 2006 A comparative analysis of civic resistance in Cuba from February 2006 through January 2007

Cuban Democratic Directorate Center for the Study of a National Option

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 1 Executive Editor: Janisset Rivero-Gutiérrez Editor: Dora Amador Researchers: Humberto Bustamante, Laura López, Aramís Pérez, John Suárez Copy Editors: Laura López and Marcibel Loo Data analyst and graphic production: René Carballo Transcription of recorded audio interviews: Modesto Arocha Layout: Dora Amador Cover design: Relvi Moronta Printing: Rodes Printing Translation: Alexandria Library Proof reading: John Suárez, Laura López, and Teresa Fernández

Cuban Democratic Directorate is a non-proﬁ t organization dedicated to promoting democratic change in Cuba and respect for human rights. As part of its work, Directorio sponsors publications and conferences in the United States, Latin America and Europe that contribute to the restoration of values of Cuban national culture and solidarity with the civic opposition on the island.

The Center for the Study of a National Option is a non-proﬁ t organization that aims to help rescue and rebuild the values, traditions, and fundamental democratic civic concepts of the Republic of Cuba.

2 INDEX

Main achievements of the Cuban civic resistance movement in 2006 4

A nation that dreams, stands up, and ﬁ ghts for freedom 5

A critical look at the pro-democracy movement in Cuba 7

Development of nonviolent civic actions in 2006 10

Classiﬁ cation of non-violent actions 11

Total acts of nonviolent civic resistance from 1997 to 2006 13

Comparison of civic resistance actions by province 1 4

Commemorative dates and number of actions 18

Acts of civic resistance by month 19

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 3 Main achievements of the Cuban civic resistance movement in 2006

• Carried out 2,768 nonviolent civic actions. • Organized 892 vigils for freedom without forced exile for Cuban political prisoners. • Carried out 24 Activities and public protests, both organized and spontaneous. • Promoted 13 activities related to new social patterns. • Carried out 36 hunger strikes both within and out of prisons. • Published 23 independent newsletters and 2 new publications. • Founded 14 new civic organizations. • Founded 27 independent libraries. • Promoted 7 general group petitions before government entities. • Carried out 2 spontaneous mass protests, one in Madruga and the other in Camagüey to support nonviolent opposition activists faced with injustices carried out by the regime’s repressive forces. • Carried out 88 fasts, masses, vigils, walks and hunger strikes in solidarity with opposition activist and independent journalist Guillermo Fariñas during his prolonged hunger strike to demand the right to unrestricted internet access for all Cubans. • Set out on a March for Dignity beginning at the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Charity of El Cobre, with the aim of walking to Havana, calling for an end to the repression against the non-violent Cuban opposition. • Climbed the mountainous Escambray massif, the historical location where Cuban peasants confronted the current dictatorship, to mark the anniversary of the Assembly to Promote Civil Society in Cuba. The group released balloons printed with the word “Cambio” (change)

“A message to Cubans, to all those who want to see their homeland free: Keep up the hard work! Sooner or later, Cubans will be free and we will no longer live subject to immoral constraints. We will no longer have to cry because we donʼt have freedom; we wonʼt have to call out for mercy because a master is humiliating us – although many of us refuse to be humiliated. Letʼs keep moving forward. We will be doing so for a people who have lived 48 years shackled to an ignominious system. Hold your heads up high so that your children will not be born captive. Long live Free Cuba! Onwards, onwards, onwards!”

Juan Carlos Herrera Acosta, Kilo 8 Prison, Camagüey, November 2006

“We, those who carry out the civic struggle, will not be the ones who will help trample the memory of our nation. For Cuba, we are willing to be nailed to the cross and we will carry it, if doing so makes us a ray of light for those Cubans who want to join us in defending the right to a life as real human beings. Freedom is what we want. May God, Country, and Freedom be the beacons for the future.”

Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, Holguín, December 2006.

“I would like the changes to become reality very soon. We are peaceful, Christian women. The most important thing is the immediate and unconditional release of our husbands and relatives. The Ladies in White will not cease in their work for freedom and peace”.

Laura Pollán Toledo, Lady in White City of Havana August 7, 2006

4 A people that dreams, stands up, and ﬁ ghts for freedom

JANISSET RIVERO-GUTIÉRREZ large-scale eviction. The public space in which society has the right to Steps to Freedom has been documenting acts debate, dissent and promote initiatives, which of civic resistance by Cuban opposition activists has been forbidden to the Cuban people since the for ten years. This report has been used by many installation of totalitarianism, has been reinventing researchers looking into life in Cuba and trying the place it needs through the courageous actions of to assess the phenomenon of the development of the Cuban opposition. civic resistance in Cuba. This resistance is facing The increase in repression, police violence and the most ferocious totalitarian regime ever known the military presence on Cuba´s streets had a on our continent. This report, which was started in signifi cant impact on the second half of 2006, 1997 as an effort to record the events led by Cuban especially beginning in August. The number of people fi ghting for freedom, has come to be more actions documented fell from 280 in July to 162 than just that. in August. It must be remembered that on July 31, Steps to Freedom has become a clear and precise 2006, spokespeople for the regime announced the demonstration that Cubans today continue to temporary handover of power from Fidel to Raúl advance towards freedom in spite of the regime’s Castro, as a result of the dictator’s ill health. During campaigns to discredit and minimize this struggle. the months following the offi cial announcement, Steps to Freedom has become an effective tool that repression increased on Cuba’s streets. Attacks, exiled Cubans can use to tell the world that there is arrests, prosecutions and prison sentences for a head-on, direct, civic, nonviolent struggle in Cuba activists became a strong impediment to the against the dictatorship and that every day this activities and projects of the opposition. As a result, resistance becomes bigger and more effective. And, the number of actions fell. However, the number of even more important than this, Steps to Freedom statements made and calls on the authorities and on has become a mirror. A mirror in which civic the world for the violence to cease increased. During activists can look to evaluate their actions; a mirror this period, masses were celebrated calling for unity where they can see that their local struggle is part of and national reconciliation. A family of activists a national struggle and that activities taking place calling for an end to repression, acts of repudiation in their municipalities are also occurring in other and violence against the Cuban opposition set out municipalities; a mirror where they can see that on a walk to Havana from the Sanctuary of Our the Cuban opposition is harmonizing its projects, Lady of Charity of el Cobre, in Santiago de Cuba. In maturing its ideas and focusing its activities. December, the number of activities began to increase This report shows the advances made and the again, mainly acts of protest and persuasion aimed diffi culties encountered in this struggle by the at raising the consciousness of the Cuban people to Cuban people. The fi rst trimester of 2006 saw a not lend themselves to the repression nor cooperate growth in the number of acts of documented civic with injustice. resistance, as well as an increased public presence In late 2006 and early 2007, a revitalization in of independent civil society organizations through opposition activity became discernible, despite their activities on the streets of Cuba. During this the continuing repression and, 2007, shows a new half year, a wide range of activities took place. impulse in the initiatives, with young people joining These included the climb of the Escambray massif the civic movements and the emblematic fi gures of by organizations from the central part of Cuba. Cuban political prisoners, such as Jorge Luís García The massif was the cradle of Cuban resistance to Pérez “Antúnez”, René Montes de Oca Martijas and totalitarianism at the beginning of the revolutionary Francisco Chaviano González, released from prison process. Also worthy of mention are the walks and after completing unjust sentences, reincorporating symbolic public acts by the Ladies in White on the themselves to the activism on the streets. anniversary of the repressive wave of 2003, as well In January 2007, another interesting and positive as the mass popular protest in Camagüey to stop a event took place which serves as a non-quantifi able

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 5 reference within the acts in this report. This was the this medium is very strong. reaction by Cuban intellectuals and writers, mostly In this way, young people mock government controls members of the state-run Union of Writers and to open windows of communication with the world. Artists of Cuba (UNEAC), together with others living It must be remembered that during the fi rst eight outside of Cuba but still linked to the cultural policy months of 2006, independent journalist Guillermo of the government in Havana, to the appearance Fariñas Hernández was on hunger strike precisely on Cuban television of two emblematic fi gures to demand the right to Internet access for himself of intellectual repression on the island in the 60s and the Cuban people. and 70s. These people and their public appearance Finally, the results of Steps to Freedom 2006-2007 caused very adverse reactions among offi cial Cuban show the current reality of the Cuban liberation intellectuals, and, as a result, later on in 2007, the process. Raúl Castro regime had them removed from the Those men and women who have decided to fi ght public stage. for democratic change on the island are confronted While this type of event has nothing to do with the by a sophisticated repressive machinery, oiled in civic and nonviolent actions on the island, the main the German school of Nazism and trained to kill focus of this report, we believe that it sheds light and maintain political power at all costs. on the differences and contradictions within the In spite of these conditions, the civic and nonviolent elite and the mobility and positioning of the power resistance movement of the Cuban people remains groups at its heart. undaunted, and fi ghts on, working on Cuba’s streets, Also important is the proliferation, since the end showing the Cuban people that it is possible to fi ght, of 2006, of blogs created by young people on the that democratic change is necessary and that the island to make their protest heard. It is dangerous solution is not to fl ee the island but to stay, resist for them to access the Internet, as the censorship of and conquer.

6 A critical look at the pro- democracy movement in Cuba

JOAQUÍN CABEZAS DE LEÓN emerging signifi cant minority in an evolutionary stage. The pro-democracy movement is an endogenous Cultural factors which have infl uenced socio-cultural phenomenon that arose in Cuban the development of the pro-democracy society in the mid 1970s. It came into being at movement that time in political prison, and was dedicated to 1.-Deepening of the political, economic and social disseminating and promoting compliance with and crisis suffered by Cuba as a result of the fall of observance of the articles contained in the Universal socialism and the disintegration of the Soviet Declaration of Human Rights. Its action and Union. connotation created a challenge without precedents 2.-Crisis of the normative systems associated in Cuba’s history. It became an anti-establishment with Marxism-Leninism and the revolutionary agent that questioned the system from within, using utopianism. peaceful methods and demanding civic traditions in 3.- The fl ow of globalization, of communications its discourse. and the emergence of global tendencies towards During the 80s, the pro-democracy movement political democracy and the market economy. maintained its initial character, which can be called 4.-The appearance of new social and cultural actors a stage of civic defense, made up of a symbolic in the country looking for alternative spaces for minority. In the international context, this initial participation – emerging civil society. period was conditioned by the extension and 5.-The partial weakening of the totalitarian state and broadening of scope of the multilateral policies of the its conversion to a post-totalitarian state, controlled United Nations and its Human Rights Commission by a power elite with a strong totalitarian vocation. in favor of compliance by nation states with the The pro-democracy movement has to act within articles contained in the Universal Declaration. a closed political system that represses any anti- This stimulated activism related to monitoring and establishment demonstration. It has to resort to a denouncing violations. In Cuba, the movement had variety of methods to work against a policy which to endure the onslaught of systematic and selective seeks to completely control society. Throughout political repression and its attempts to organize the length and breadth of Cuba, the mechanisms and grow throughout the country were diminished. for social control are designed to repress dissident For this reason, the movement centered its activity groups, discredit their proposals, neutralize their largely on the capital. actions, contain their expansion and isolate their The 90s was a moment of infl ection for the mobilization mechanisms to promote the authentic opposition movement in terms of developing and demands of the population. In such a hostile context, growing in an unprecedented manner in Cuba. This where the maxim of the regime is watch and punish, happened as a result of a number of factors, amongst any analysis of the pro-democracy movement should them the increase in its visibility in Cuban society use a qualitative projection as a methodology and and the articulation of different social, cultural and not restrict itself only to quantitative parameters, political projects that expressed plural criteria and because otherwise its true and fi nal dimension, were independent from events and processes that conditioned as it is by the nature of its proposals, were happening within society. The pro-democracy will get lost in the analysis. We are witnessing a movement thus became a legitimate representative political, social and cultural phenomenon, which for a sector of the population debating the closed refl ects a new quality of primary actors, who bring logic of political power versus the necessity for forth claims to rebuild the Cuban nation from a change and reformist opening. Among the other democratic perspective. elements with a positive infl uence was the organic Analyzing the relationship between the pro- maturing of the movement, which began to create democracy movement and Cuban society, as well as national projects that respected plurality and the attempts by those in power to halt its advance, proposed the absolute necessity of promoting its it is possible to discern a pattern of behavior of two social extension. Thus the movement grew from steps forward and one step back. Those in power its initial stage of symbolic minority to become an launch a repressive wave against the development

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 7 of the pro-democracy movement, taking measures regime, who imprisoned the main leaders. Within or punitive actions to stop and destroy the progress the framework of the Ibero-American Summit held of the movement. These actions end up working in Havana, the pro-democracy movement called a against them, producing a reaction from the parallel meeting in which, in spite of the repressive opposition movement called “liberalizing counter- measures, the document Todos Unidos was written. waves”. These counter-waves are attempts by the This was a set of declarations of principles by the vast opposition to gain new ground and make up losses. majority of the pro-democracy organizations. At In this dynamic, their operations develop, which the same time, the conditions for later development shows that, in spite of the repressive measures and were created. their intensity, the dissident groups are organic The years 2001, 2002 and 2003 saw the greatest to the underlying dynamics of society and express growth and maturing for the opposition movement, a will to build an alternative to the commanding which managed to increase its visibility within order. It must not be lost from sight that the Cuban society with a multiplicity of social, cultural repression, in all its forms, is inherent and directly and political projects which strengthened its proportional to the development and growth of the presence. This in turn led to greater international dissident movement. The controlling elite assumes recognition that the movement was a participant to the political costs of repression rather than giving be taken into account within the Cuban situation. up ground in their control of society. 2003: In March, the Cuban government carried Below, in chronological order, are some of the most out the greatest wave of repression in the history of relevant moments for the pro-democracy movement peaceful opposition, jailing 75 democratic leaders. It in the last ten years, which show this pattern of took this drastic decision to slow down and destroy behavior and confl ictive inter-relationship in the pro-democracy movement in light of the latter’s a dialectic of repressive waves and liberalizing unprecedented growth, marked amongst other counter-waves, ranging from the Concilio Cubano signifi cant events, by the Varela Project. This was an (Cuban Congress) to the Ladies in White. initiative by the Christian Liberation Movement to 1996: As a result of the growth and maturing of collect signatures from people across Cuba, calling the pro-democracy movement, its new emerging for laws to be transformed and a referendum held. leadership called for the Concilio Cubano (Cuban It presented the document to the National Assembly Congress), the greatest effort to bring together of People’s Power in 2002, having managed to opposition groups within the country. The collect signatures from over 25,000 citizens, who, regime responded with a repressive wave across in addition to their signature, added their identity Cuba, preventing the meeting from taking place, card number and identifying details. imprisoning the main organizers and shooting The repressive wave of March 2003 was a bitter down the Brothers to the Rescue aircrafts as they blow to the pro-democracy movement. The fl ew over international waters. repression temporarily minimized the call to 1997: The opposition leaders of the Working Group mobilize within Cuban society but was not able to for Internal Dissidence produced the document destroy it completely because it re-organized itself, entitled The Nation is For All, a critical analysis of articulating new projects and initiatives, such as the Cuban society and a response by civil society to the appearance of the Ladies in White to demand the development of a document by the Communist Party freedom of their imprisoned family members. of Cuba in view of its fi fth congress. Those involved 2005: On May 20 and 21, 2005, the Assembly to were tried and imprisoned for the impact of the promote Civil Society was held in Havana. Over 150 recommendations they made to those in power. Cuban organizations attended, to present the fi rst 1999: The Lawton Foundation for Human steps towards democratizing the country and create Rights convened the Life and Liberty fast from strategies to achieve it. Tamarindo 34, which spread to 53 fast centers in There is no doubt that the development and different parts of the country. These centers went strengthening of civil society in general and of on to become mechanisms for bringing together the pro-democracy movement in particular is and creating union within the pro-democracy fundamental for the Cuban democratic transition. movement. Furthermore the Lawton Foundation If we analyze the most probable scenarios for for Human Rights called for and used a strategy of transition, we realize that it is extremely important nonviolent civic resistance, creating schools of civic that the pro-democracy movement becomes a resistance. All this activity increased the visibility of relevant player capable of growing from the stage the opposition movement, which in turn provoked of being a signifi cant emerging minority to one an increase in harassment and repression by the of greater reach, which we could call constructive

8 mobilization. This stage will be achieved when the This is its great weakness. democratizing movement is capable of mobilizing The regime is at the dawn of an unprecedented the population and building an alternative power and relevant event. It is clear that there will be based on participative democracy and a state a leadership succession process and if the pro- founded in the rule of law. democracy movement is not capable of converting The most recurrent scenes for democratic itself into an agent for social change, its participation transition in Cuban society could be led from in this succession process will have little signifi cance. below by insurrection within civil society or by an That being the case, the succession will take place agreed transition, resulting from dialogues and without any political or economic change and the negotiations with the moderate and reformist sector elite will adjust its power to the new circumstances, arising during the succession process. carrying out some reforms to assure its legitimacy These probable scenarios have a common and cohesion. denominator: transition from below will not be The pro-democracy movement needs to be aware of possible if the pro-democracy movement fails to the fact that to become a key player within Cuban become a force for change capable of mobilizing society and push forward the transition, it should the population or channeling social discontent and increase its participation in social life at all levels does not have suffi cient power to call together and and grow its moral authority. mobilize society to be able to put pressure on the To do this, it will have to strengthen its presence and regime. For the negotiated transition scenario to vitality. Its agenda must feed on existing confl icts work, its fundamental premise must be that that the between the regime’s imperative to dominate and opposition movement becomes an important player the authentic complaints of society. Furthermore, within society, one with which the power elite has its activity must eliminate the sense of impotence to negotiate in order to survive in a reformed form and conformism with which the state has paralyzed within a new social pact. society. The organized opposition must become Vaclav Havel said, referring to the lessons learned a source of social emancipation. The repressive from the democratic revolutions in Central and measures have not been able to destroy the pro- Eastern Europe in 1989, that it was not the attempt democracy movement but they have been effective at political reform which caused the new awakening in creating a barrier between the active nucleus of society, but the inverse: the awakening ultimately of the opposition movement and the general caused the political reform. This maxim must be population, which does not perceive the opposition borne in mind in all the strategies of the pro- movement as an alternative capable of becoming a democracy movement. Reformism arises as a counter-power. response to the explosive crisis; it is not the cause The great challenge for the pro-democracy movement but the result. Cuban society stands at a crossroads. is the democratization of the country and in order The power elite are putting all their efforts into to achieve this, it will have to go beyond the stage of maintaining their hegemony and has until now had being a signifi cant minority and convert itself into a the dynamic of being able to reproduce itself and social movement. This can only be achieved when reconstitute itself with its contradictions. we assume with our own voices, the resonating calls External factors could give the impression that it for freedom of the populace. has found a critical path for survival, but we should not be deceived; in order to survive, it will have to Writer and poet, member of the Cuban Refl ection reform itself and its nature does not permit reform. Movement, in Camajuaní, Villa Clara.

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 9 Development of nonviolent civic actions in 2006 The classifi cation and analysis of the data collected freedom without forced exile of all Cuban political for this report was carried out using the methodology prisoners. At the end of each month there is a table proposed by the American academic Gene Sharp. summarizing the days and places where these vigils As indicated in previous reports, nonviolent civic were held. During these vigils, the participants resistance actions are those taken by citizens who act pray, read passages from the Bible, exchange ideas without physical violence to confront a totalitarian and future projects and often talk about the life and power to protest and to claim rights which have writings of political prisoners. been violated. This methodology separates actions In addition to the vigils, other protest and persua- into three categories: protest and persuasion, sion actions which were important during the pe- intervention and non-cooperation. These three riod of this report included meetings, public decla- categories can also be seen as progressive stages rations, masses and symbolic public activities such in the nonviolent civic struggle, as the level of civic as the throwing of fl owers into the rivers and the sea defi ance each one implies gradually increases. Using off the coasts of Cuba on commemorative dates such this Sharpian analysis, protest and persuasion is the as February 24 or July 13, as well as group petitions fi rst stage in any nonviolent civic struggle, followed and marches. An important example in this category by non-cooperation and fi nally by intervention. was the march started by Ramón Velásquez Toranzo However, these stages can take place in the same and his wife and daughter on December 10 from the time period, and are not mutually exclusive. Sanctuary of Our Lady of Charity of El Cobre. This A total of 2,768 actions were documented for 2006 march, in which many activists from different parts and January 2007. This fi gure was 16.67% lower of Cuba came to participate, crossed Cuba from than 2005 to January 2006, when the total number East to West, reaching Ciego de Ávila, hundreds of of actions was 3,322. In our opinion, this decrease kilometers west of its starting point in Santiago de was due to the impact caused by the repression Cuba province. This family, together with human during the second half of 2006, above all after the rights activists, walked on foot, calling for an end regime announced the ill-health of the dictator to the aggression towards the civic opposition and Fidel Castro. This notwithstanding, the numbers the unconditional release of Cuban political prison- collected in this report show a qualitative increase ers. Of course, in an atmosphere of strong repres- in actions, above all in the categories of intervention sion such as that experienced in the second half and non-cooperation, when compared to 2005. of 2006, the walk was repressed and at the pres- During the period between February 2006 and ent time, the main organizer is in prison. Another January 2007, the Cuban people took part in 2,398 important example of protest and persuasion is the protest and persuasion activities. This fi gure growing number of activists in the streets, above represents 86.6% of the total number of actions. all in the central part of Cuba, distributing copies This was a decrease of 23.92% compared to the 3,152 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and actions in this category in 2005. The impact of the alternative literature. This type of action was very repression during the second half of 2006, which diffi cult to achieve in the past because many peo- we see clearly refl ected in the number of protest and ple were afraid to receive any kind of independent persuasion activities which managed to take place literature. Now, however, more people are willing did not, however, prevent a period of growth in to accept it and it is possible to discern a general civic activity in the months following January 2007, desire among the population to receive alternative which will be analyzed in the next Steps to Freedom literature. Indeed, not only do they accept material, report, which is currently in development. but they often ask for more. 37.20% of the protest and persuasion activities In addition to the initiatives mentioned, we have were vigils for freedom without forced exile for separated out within this category those actions political prisoners, this being the most important carried out by the family members of political pris- activity within this category. Every Wednesday, oners, especially the Ladies in White, whose work human rights activists meet in hundreds of and determination have been internationally rec- houses and streets across Cuba to hold vigils for ognized. The family members of political prisoners

10 carried out 276 actions of this kind, this fi gure ac- mented in the 2005 report, which represents an counting for 11.5% of the total number of protest increase of 700%. The proliferation of anti-govern- and persuasion actions. This fi gure was higher than ment signs is a clear sign of the people’s discontent. that for 2005, when 182 actions were documented. Within this type of action, mass public protests can It is important to mention that of the activities car- also be mentioned, such as the one in November in ried out by family members, the protests and public Madruga in the province of Havana and the one in marches did not just take place in the province of Camagüey in May, to protest against a large-scale Havana, where some took place in the very center eviction. Twenty-four spontaneous public protests of the capital and received signifi cant international are documented in this report. press coverage. Meanwhile, while people outside of In the category of intervention, a comparative prison have been defending the right of those who growth of 149.65% can be seen compared to the have been unjustly imprisoned to be uncondition- 2005 fi gures. However, the fi gure does not reach ally released, inside the prisons, political and com- the 389 actions of interventions recorded in 2002. mon prisoners have remained active at all cost. Bearing in mind that intervention is a later phase in Forty-fi ve protest and persuasion actions the nonviolent civic struggle, the fact that this cat- within prisons are documented within this report, egory has increased, gives us an idea of the intensity

not including hunger strikes and protests, which of the struggle which is unfolding on the island. count within the category of nonviolent interven- Intervention actions made up 12.71% of the total tion. number of actions documented in this study. This Finally, it is important to mention within this cat- category includes initiatives that are very important egory actions that can be regarded as spontaneous, to the development of the nonviolent civic struggle because they were not started by people or groups such as the publication of alternative media, news- of people within opposition organizations. This re- letters or magazines, the opening of new institu- lates to anti-government signs. Within this type of tions such as independent libraries or the carrying spontaneous action by the population, there were out of fasts or hunger strikes to protest violated 460 instances of signs, compared with 55 docu- rights. General fasts to commemorate symbolic

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 11 dates or mark concrete demands from the opposi- prisoners at Playa Manteca Prison in Holguín, a tion amounted to 231 actions. In this area, men- true monument to human dignity. tion must be made of the national fasting campaign Moving on to actions of non-cooperation, it is pos- in support of independent journalist Guillermo sible to note that the total number in this category Fariñas Hernández in his strike to demand the right decreased from 29 actions in 2005 to 18 in 2006, to unrestricted Internet access for the Cuban peo- representing a decrease of 37.93% year on year. ple. Within the category of these fasts, note must be This decrease is the result of the strong repression made of those carried out by the family members of to which the opposition movement was subjected political prisoners and those carried out inside pris- during the second half of 2006. However, it must on. This category also includes the hunger strikes be noted that on two occasions large numbers of by political prisoners and by common prisoners in people did not cooperate with the repressive forces, solidarity with them. The number of hunger strikes when they refused to accept two violent evictions, in prison was 32. One of the main protagonists in- where hundreds of people demonstrated. Another volved was political prisoner and prisoner of con- important but unquantifi able factor in 2006 is the science Juan Carlos Herrera Acosta in the Kilo 8 refusal by neighbors of opposition activists to take Prison in Camagüey part in repudiation rallies. Activities that can be characterized within new so- This category not only includes spontaneous ac- cial patterns such as the creation of alternative insti- tions of political non-cooperation, whereby Cuban tutions of civil society also have a major role within citizens decide not to take part in the repression this category. Thus, 27 new independent libraries or in the arbitrary policies of government, but also and 14 other institutions are accounted for; some protests inside prison as a way for political prison- new social patterns were adopted, such as in the ers to not accept impositions. East of the island, the blowing of whistles to protest Before concluding this analysis, we must bear in about the situation of the country, or the dressing mind the importance of activities carried out in the with some sort of symbol on clothing. A number of provinces, compared with those that took place in projects were promoted focused on protecting the the city of Havana. environment or against social violence, which are Here we see a small decrease in the percentage of clearly far from the social dynamic imposed by the actions carried out in the provinces, from 89% in island’s ruling regime. 2005 to 87%. The percentage of actions taking As mentioned before, this category also includes place in Havana increased from 11% in 2005 to 13% the publication of 25 new and existing independent in 2006. newsletters, a higher fi gure than the 18 documented The development of actions of civic resistance in in 2005. Among them are El Camagüeyano, pub- Cuba during 2006 and the beginning of 2007 clearly lished for the last few years by the independent shows the struggle that human rights activists and press of Camagüey and the newsletters, El Cubano the champions of democratic change are undertak- Libre and Los Pinos Nuevos, new publications pro- ing on the island. moted from eastern Cuba. Antorcha Universitaria, Confronted by the most brutal repression and the promoted by the Cuban Youth for Democracy mercilessness of the repressive organs of the gov- Movement from the West of the island, and the ernment, the Cuban opposition has shown innova- magazine Revista Amanecer by the Ciego de Ávila tion and its political maturity by continuing and branch of the Cuban Foundation of Human Rights broadening its work with the Cuban people without are both also worthy of mention. In addition to these retreating or ceding the ground gained through sac- newsletters, there is one published by the political rifi ce and courage.

14 Comparative percentage of actions in Havana and the provinces

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 15 16 PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 17 18 FEBRUARY 2006

Havana, February 1, 2006. Human rights journalist, Youth Without Censorship press activists met at the Freedom Movement agency. headquarters located at Calle Villaverde#15 e/ Villa Clara, February 2, 2006. The Calixto García Cisneros y Heredia, Reparto La Esperanza, La Íñiguez independent library was inaugurated by its Habana, where the organization held its regular director, Yunieski García López. Also present at the activity calling for freedom for political prisoners. opening, including Idania Yánez Contreras, Noelia During the vigil, the group recited the Lord’s Prayer Pedraza Jiménez, Filiberto Pérez del Sol, Enrique to plead for the mental and physical health of the Hernández Martínez, Rogelio López Silverio and brothers and sisters held in Cuban prisons solely Alberto González Gómez all members of opposition because they defended human rights and called groups. The new library is located at Calle 1ra,#21, for free and democratic elections in Cuba. The e/A y B, Reparto Nuevo Condado. Psalm 86 was following activists participated in the event: Juan read along with a biographical account of the Francisco Humberto Guerra Perugorría, President independence hero Calixto García. of the Freedom Movement; Lázaro Antonio Aragón Source: Jorge Olivera Castillo, Cubanet. Niurvis Ortega, Freedom Movement; Víctor Alejo Toste, Díaz Remón, Cubanacán Press independent press Vice President, Movement to Rescue Freedom and agency. Democracy; José Luis Rodríguez Ibadez, MFUL; Sancti Spíritus, February 2, 2006. The Alberto Duany Guzmán, Freedom Movement; Carlos residents of the Las Tosas rural neighborhood Manuel Rodríguez García, Freedom Movement; refused to participate in a Repudiation Rally led Serafín Borges Matriz, Freedom Movement; Juan by Communist Party agents intended to intimidate Ochoa Leyva, Political Prisoner, Freedom Movement; human rights activists José Rivero Monteagudo, a Nelson Fuentes Lara, Freedom Movement; Ramón member of the National Association of Rafters for Rosas Sánchez, Freedom Movement. Human Rights, Peace, Democracy and Freedom; Source: Juan Francisco Humberto Guerra Bienvenido Perdigón Pacheco, provincial delegate Perugorría, Freedom Movement. Anaika Paneca of the 30th of November Party; and Ana Margarita Román, “Frank País” 30th of November Democratic Perdigón Brito, director of all independent libraries Party . Ángel De Fana Serrano, Plantados Until in the Sancti Spíritus province and a Cuban Freedom and Democracy in Cuba. Foundation delegate. “We call not only on those in Camagüey, February 1, 2006. Volume 4, Issue exile, but also on both domestic and international 23 of the El Camagüeyano newsletter, which provides public opinion to take into account that, in spite information on the region, was published. It featured of the great repression we face in our country, we an article on the Cuban Commission on Human are not going to give up; we are going to continue Rights and National Reconciliation analyzing the fi ghting for democracy and for change. In that, we increasing number of political prisoners in Cuba, are fi rm.” an article on the right to congregate, freedom of Source: José Rivero Monteagudo, Directorio association and freedom of expression, which Democrático Cubano. should be respected for all Cubans. Ciego de Ávila, February 2, 2006. Hundreds Source: Luis Guerra Juvier, Nueva Prensa Cubana; of citizens from the village of Morón participated in Julio Romero Muñoz, Freedom of Expression the procession of Our Lady of Candelaria, the patron Solidarity Movement. saint of Morón. This tradition, which dates back Camagüey, February 1, 2006. From his cell to 1855, commenced again in 2003 following 43 at the Kilo 8 Prison, political prisoner José Daniel years of prohibition by the Cuban government. The Ferrer García made public his decision to reject procession, which covers many blocks in the area all of the supposed benefi ts offered by the prison, of Morón’s Catholic church, was presided over by including food, in an act of solidarity and protest the Ciego de Ávila bishop, Monseñor Mario Mestril, against the inhumane treatment to which he and who blessed the hundreds of candles carried by the Juan Carlos Herrera Acosta are subjected. The pair faithful. During the 45-minute march, neighbors has been cruelly beaten during the previous several came out of the houses along the route and gave days. offerings to the Virgin of Candelaria, patron saint Source: Liannis Meriño Aguilera, independent of the city of Gallo. Within the fi rst block of the

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 19 Jesús Calderín Mirabal was imprisoned in 1993 for the “crime” of “disrespect to the fi gure of the Commander” when he shouted insults about Fidel Castro in a bar. In 1995, he was placed under house arrest for doing the same. During one of his arrests, the police took him to the hospital, where they pressured the surgeon on duty to remove the tattoo on his chest, which says “Down with Fidel”. The doctor refused and demanded the consent of the prisoner to be submitted to surgery. Calderín refused. On another occasion, various military personnel kidnapped him from the middle of the street and took him to the Cárdenas Police unit where they burned the letters tattooed on his chest with a home-made formula of salt and lemon juice, but the words still remain. In Cárdenas, in the municipality of Matanzas, the police have undertaken to arrest Calderín, alias Caldero, every time there is any political activity in the area. Source: Dr. Darsi Ferrer, Director of the Juan Bruno Zayas Health and Human Rights Center. Misceláneas de Cuba march, listeners heard calls from the loudspeakers they encouraged us, and they told us what had for spiritual freedom in Cuba. Even though political been happening outside, which was horrifi c,” police agents closely watched their every move, Ruiz Moreno said. “The public supported us and peaceful dissidents taking part in the march prayed confronted the mob courageously. to the Virgin of Candelaria for the release of political Source: Amado Ruiz Moreno, Radio República. prisoners, an end to the Repudiation Rallies, and Villa Clara, February 3, 2006. The human rights for the light of the Patron Saint of Morón to lead the activist and president of the Marta Abreu Women’s oppressors toward a path of tolerance. Movement, Noelia Pedraza Jiménez, declared a Source: José Manuel Caraballo Bravo, APLA. hunger strike to call for an end to the beatings and Cubanet. harassment of human rights activists. The strike Villa Clara, February 3, 2006. Eight human took place at her home, Edifi cio #10, apto. 5, 3er. rights activists, Bienvenido Perdigón Pacheco, Ana Piso, Reparto José Martí, in Santa Clara. It went on Margarita Perdigón Brito, Gregorio Pérez Lara, for 35 days. Adriano Castañeda Meneses, Julio César Menéndez, Source: Idania Yánes Contreras, Marta Abreu Jorge Perdigón Brito, Edel Peralta Ruz and Luis Women’s Movement. Cubanacán Press. Cubanet. Díaz, were gathered at the home of Amado Ruíz Isla de Pinos, February 4, 2006. For the fi rst Moreno and his wife, Elia Moreno, at 8 a.m. when time, the Julio Tang Texier Civic Cultural Project a violent mob surrounded the house and began promoted the distribution of the “Actualidad hurling threats, including death, by taking them to Cubana” newsletter, published in Miami by Cuban- the gallows pole. American National Foundation. The neighbors, including the head of the Committee Source: Carlos Serpa Maceira, independent for the Defense of the Revolution, were shocked by journalist, Lux Info Press. the assault. Many shouted, “Leave these people Matanzas, February 4, 2006. The Peace, alone; what you are doing is barbaric terrorism Love and Freedom Party met at the home of one against them.” But the mob retorted, “If you don’t of its members, Andrés Govea Suárez, at Calle get back inside, we are going to take you down as Libertad#41 e/ Estrella y San Antonio, Guareira, well,” and “you are either with us or against us.” Colón, Matanzas. They met amidst a rally organized “The public acted very well, as they have in the by State Security agents. Most of the residents in past, because afterwards they came over to us, the area demurred from partaking in the three-hour 20 The proliferation of independent libraries throughout the provinces makes it possible for Cubans to have access to information fi ercely censored by the regime. This is the case for Sergio Santa Cruz, above, seen reading testimonials from Cuban political prison.

Repudiation Rally. Yadamís Zayas, who is waiting to begin serving a two As soon as the verbal attacks and threats year prison sentence for stealing in the workplace. subsided, those gathered for the meeting sang the Source: Jorge Luis Alvarez García, Peace, Love national anthem and began the ordinary meeting, and Freedom Party. Alejandrina García de la strengthened and with greater assurance of victory. Riva, Ladies in White and the wife of Peace, Love Alejandrina García de la Riva, one of the Ladies in and Freedom Party President Diosdado González White and the wife of Peace, Love and Freedom Marrero, one of the 75 political prisoners jailed Party President Diosdado González Marrero, was during the Black Spring of 2003. present at the meeting, her husband is one of the Havana, February 5, 2006. The Ladies in 75 political prisoners jailed during the Black Spring White, the wives, mothers, sisters and relatives of of 2003: political prisoners, made their weekly pilgrimage At the meeting’s end, even though we had been to the Santa Rita Church at 5ta. Avenida y 26, repudiated and told that the streets belong to the Miramar in Havana. They prayed for freedom for revolutionaries, we proved that the homeland their imprisoned family members. belongs to all Cubans by marching throughout the Source: Laura Pollán, Lady in White and the wife neighborhood all the way to the highway to Colón. of the jailed independent journalist Héctor Maseda All of the passersby looked at us and one woman Gutiérrez. Berta Soler Fernández, Lady in White called out, “God bless you!” Finally, we want to tell and the wife of imprisoned opposition leader Angel all of the island’s opposition that we wish to unite Moya Acosta. and that the Repudiation Rallies will not stop us Villa Clara, February 5, 2006. Dissidents from our struggle to achieve a free and democratic from Cubanacán Press based inVilla Clara began Cuba. a rotating 24-hour hunger and thirst fast chain. Among those involved in the mob that harassed this Opposition activists from nearly all of the non- group of citizens was Luis Caballero Fernández, Félix governmental organizations in Villa Clara joined the Cuní Menéndez, of the Combatants Association and activity to show their support for Guillermo Fariñas PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 21 Hernández and Noelia Pedraza Jiménez and their of the strike was to demand direct Internet access. just demand for free access to the Internet. Every The text of the statement was: “Guillermo Fariñas 24 hours, a Cubanacán Press journalist will take Hernández represents the spirit of rebellion against their turn in the protest. the brutal dictatorship of Fidel Castro. He has Source: Roberto Carlos Pérez García, national known how to patent his commitment to freedom coordinator of the Christian Democratic Movement and democracy in Cuba with capital letters, to of Cuba. Luis Cino, Cubanet. quote the apostle José Martí, “Every honorable Camagüey, February 5, 2006. The Ladies man can realize his actions.’” Fariñas began his in White, the wives, mothers, sisters and family strike on January 31. On that day, he sent a letter members of political prisoners from Camagüey, to Fidel Castro explaining his civic demand and his attended Sunday mass at the Santa Ana Church, determination to die if the government refused to located at General Gómez # 400 esquina a Bembeta cede to his petition. The Cuba-Miami Information y Plaza de Santa Ana. The group prayed for the Bridge’s statement concluded: “Fariñas is an example release of all political prisoners. of a dignifi ed Cuban who accepts the consequences Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political of his ideas. We ratify our unconditional support prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. Julio Romero and our solidarity.” Muñoz, Free Expression Solidarity Movement. Source: Carlos Serpa Maceira, Lux InfoPress, Guantánamo, February 5, 2006. The John director of the Cuba-Miami Information Bridge Paul II Movement for Freedom, Reconciliation and Independent Press Bureau. Peace was founded at the home of Keyber Rodríguez Havana, February 6, 2006. The Ladies in Fernández, located at Calle Abel Díaz Delgado #17, White denounced that they have been the targets e/Martí y República, in Baracoa. Seven human of Repudiation Rallies in Havana and throughout rights activists participated in the inauguration. the country since March 2005. The mothers, wives Source: Julián Antonio Monés Borrero, MCJD. and family members of jailed Cuban dissidents Keyber Rodríguez Fernández, Juan Pablo II demanded an “end to the harassment, repression Movement for Freedom, Reconciliation and Peace. and injuries” against them and “the immediate Pinar del Río, February 6, 2006. Opposition and unconditional release of the 75 prisoners of activist Humberto Vigoe Chirino, the administrator conscience arrested and tried in March 2003. “The for the Varela Project and a resident of San Cristóbal, authorities are instigating groups of citizens to Pinar del Río, refused to sign an act of unity drafted verbally assault and harass us,” the group’s public by the Political Police, which the authorities had told statement said. In response to this situation, the him to sign. The letter, which was given to Vigoe group of women, the recipient of the European Chirino, stated that the activist was a potential Parliament’s Sajarov Prize for Freedom of Thought, criminal. “I am convinced that this is really about called on the Cuban people “who have allowed intimidating me and inhibiting my civic activities,” themselves to be led into these shameful acts… to Vigoe Chirino said. “The main reason for it is that I get to know us and to meditate and analyze whether am the administrator of the Varela Project.” they could see themselves in our situation.” Political Police offi cers threatened the activist with Source: Europapress. bring tried for the presumed crime of public danger Villa Clara, February 6, 2007. Independent for his efforts to collect signatures for the Varela journalist Niurvis Díaz Remond began a 24-hour Project. fast in Santa Clara taking part in a chain of fasts in Vigoe Chirino is 36 years old, married, and a father support of Guillermo Fariñas Hernández’ hunger of two. He denounced the systematic violations strike. committed against him and said that he is regularly Source: Luis Cino. Cubanet. prosecuted and harassed by political police Guantánamo, February 6, 2007. Political pris- offi cers. oner Juan Carlos Herrera Acosta, an independent Source: Ernesto Roque Cintero, UPECI. Cubanet. journalist and the national coordinator of the Cuban Havana, February 6, 2006. The Cuba-Miami Youth for Democracy Movement serving a 20-year Information Bridge Independent Press Bureau prison term at the Kilo 8 prison in Camagüey, re- made public a written statement in solidarity leased the following public statement: with independent journalist Guillermo Fariñas “I wish to let the people of Cuba and the international Hernández, who is a correspondent of said bureau community know that, in spite of all the physical and director of the Cubanacán Press agency, who and psychological torture that I am suffering in this fi nds himself on a complete hunger strike (no food most recent unjust imprisonment for defending or liquids) in the city of Santa Clara. The purpose democracy, the reinstatement of a civil society

22 Yet again in 2006, the Ladies in White were key fi gures in the nonviolent civil struggle to free Cuba, with their gladiolus fl owers, photos of their imprisoned relatives on their chests and their defi ance of the government by marching through the streets of Havana, close to the parish church of Saint Rita, where they attend Mass every Sunday. They also take part in street demonstrations on signifi cant dates, such as February 24th. held captive for more than 47 years of Castroism of Cuba’s historic political prisoners. Long live a enthroned, I will not hoist the white fl ag of dishonor; free Cuba. God, country and freedom. May human they cannot make me surrender and they cannot rights live and prevail in the land that I so love.” silence my voice. I struggle because the light of truth Source: Rolando Rodríguez Lobaina, and freedom will come to this land, which has been Cuban Youth for Democracy Movement. Radio turned into the feudal terrain of a Caesar who bleeds República. it. As a dignifi ed son of this nation, I am willing to Camagüey, February 7, 2006. Political prisoners offer my life if it is necessary to defend the peace Egberto Ángel Escobedo Morales, Lázaro González and harmony of the land of Varela and Martí. I will Adán, René Montes de Oca Martija, Erizaldo Calvo not discard the possibility that a clinically induced Hernández and Jorge Luis Suárez Varona, held in death at the hands of the commissars of terror will the Cerámica Roja prison in Camagüey, drafted and truncate my life, but as long as I have strength and released a letter to the country’s political prisoners. my heart beats, I will continue to fi ght from within “Cuba has become an island prison: the Cuban the monstrous womb of Castro’s prison. The price people in the street have only conditional freedom to pay has been very high: pain, mourning and exile and those of us in jail are in punishment cells. All constitute the panacea of Fidel Castro during 47 of the signers are members of the Pedro Luis Boitel years of reigning terror, but I do not resign myself Association of Political Prisoners, victims of the to a life condemned; I am only a dignifi ed follower despotic, arbitrary and dictatorial authorities in

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 23 A ﬂ yer for the Free Expression Solidarity Movement (MOSEL), which is distributed in the streets of Camagüey, where its headquarters are located. power,” the letter stated. “We will only be truly free Manuel Rodríguez García, Freedom Movement; on the day that the repression, totalitarianism and Serafín Borges Matriz, Freedom Movement; and imperialism of this terrorist state ceases to exist. Juan Ochoa Leyva, a political prisoner and member Long live a free Cuba. God, country and freedom.” of the Freedom Movement, who participated from Source: Marilín Díaz Fernández, Lux InfoPress. jail. Radio República. Source: Juan Francisco Humberto Guerra Havana, February 8, 2006. Activists meet Perugorría, Freedom Movement; Anaika Paneca at the headquarters of the Freedom Movement, Román, “Frank País” 30th of November Democratic located at Calle Villaverde#15 e/Cisneros y Heredia, Party ; Ángel De Fana Serrano, Plantados Until Reparto La Esperanza, La Habana, to pray the Freedom and Democracy in Cuba. Lord’s Prayer to plead for the mental and physical Havana, February 8, 2006. A vigil and fast health of the brothers held in Cuban prisons only takes place to call for the release of Cuban political because they defended human rights and called prisoners and praying for the health of independent for free and democratic elections in Cuba. The journalist Guillermo Fariñas, who began a hunger following activists participated in the event: Juan strike on January 31. A few days later, the activist Francisco Humberto Guerra Perugorría, President Noelia Pedraza Jiménez joined this action. The of the Freedom Movement; Lázaro Antonio Aragón ceremony took place at Calle 40 #2906 e/29 y Ortega, Freedom Movement; Víctor Alejo Toste, 33, San José de las Lajas. The following activists Vice President, Movement to Rescue Freedom and participated in the event: Delfín Rodríguez, Félix Democracy; José Luis Rodríguez Ibadez, MFUL; Camero, Luís González, Marina Barceló, Manuel Ramón Rosas Sánchez, Freedom Movement; Beatón, Marielín de Armas, Darelis Velásquez, Alberto Duany Guzmán, Freedom Movement; Yolver Díaz and Alfredo Valle. Andrés Pellicier Chacón, the Liberal Orthodox Party; Source: Marina Barceló, Pro-Human Rights Party, Roberto Castillo Rivera, the FLD movement; Carlos an afﬁ liate organization of the Andrei Sajarov

24 Foundation. participated in the vigil: the Liberal Party of Cuba, Camagüey, February 8, 2006. Nonviolent the Cuban Liberal Movement, the Cuban Foundation opposition activists Erizaldo Calvo Hernández and for Human Rights, the Claridad Human Rights Raidel Aróstegui, jailed in the Cerámica Roja prison Movement and the Christian Liberation Movement, in Camagüey, announced a protest against their all members of the Eastern Democratic Alliance. unjust imprisonment in Unit 5 of the penitentiary. Source: Liannis Meriño Aguilera, independent The prisoners, who launched a hunger strike, have journalist, Youth Without Censorship press not received any response to their demands from agency. prison authorities regarding their legal situation. Villa Clara, February 9, 2007. Independent Instead, they have been victimized by a disciplinary journalist Niurvis Díaz Remond began a 24- measure consisting of their isolation in punishment hour fast in Santa Clara as part of a chain of fasts cells, according to Lázaro González Adán, an in support of independent journalist Guillermo independent journalist also being held there. Fariñas Hernández’s hunger strike. Calvo and Aróstegui, who are 38 and 28 years Source: Idania Yánes Contreras, Marta Abreu old, respectively, were jailed in 2004 when the Women’s Movement. Camagüey prosecutor requested their preventative Havana, February 10, 2006. Opposition activist detention until the time of the trial for the alleged Rolando Aguirre Patteiscu, a delegate with the Cuban crime of “damages”, referring to the breaking of a Liberal Movement rebelled against the authorities few windows in the above mentioned city. by refusing to pay 12 500-peso fi nes levied for After more than two years in jail, both prisoners operating a taxi-bicycle without a license. Aguirre began a protest to demand that the government Patteiscu solicited a license on various occasions stop violating their civil and legal rights by holding but was repeatedly denied one for being a political them in prison without demonstrating their guilt or dissident. His civil disobedience of refusing to pay innocence. They called on the government to grant the fi nes led to a one-year prison sentence, to be them fair legal proceedings and their immediate served in the El Inocencio penitentiary, located at freedom. Kilometer 2 of the Quivicán Highway in Batabanó, Source: Marilín Díaz Fernández, Lux Info Press. Havana. Prisoners at this correctional facility mostly Cubanet. perform basic agricultural labor. Holguín, February 8, 2006. The Board of Source: Shelyn Rojas. Cubanet. Directors of the Eastern Democratic Alliance of Moa Villa Clara, February 10, 2007. Independent met at the home of alliance representative Francisco journalist Alaín Gómez Ramos began a 24-hour fast Hernández Gómez, located at Antonio Boizán # 25 in Santa Clara as part of a chain of fasts in support Reparto Haiti Chiquito, in Moa, to reinitiate the of independent journalist Guillermo Fariñas organization’s activities and coordinate on a regional Hernández’s hunger strike. level. Juan Carlos Garcell, Francisco Hernández Source: Idania Yánes Contreras, Marta Abreu Gómez, Augusto Hernández de los Ángeles, Jorge Women’s Movement. Rodríguez Campos, Martín Ruiz González, and Holguín, February 10, 2006. The attorney Omar Wilson Estévez participated in the meeting. José Manuel de la Rosa Pérez from the Ministry Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, José Herrera and of Justice ,20-9-20, presents the following fi nding Juan Carlos Garcell, Eastern Democratic Alliance. in favor of Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, of Calle Celia Holguín, February 8, 2006. Numerous non- Sánchez Manduley#33 e/Máximo Gómez and governmental organizations belonging to the Diego M. Yebra, Antilla, and against the National Eastern Democratic Alliance held a fast in solidarity Revolutionary Police for illegally confi scating a fax with Guillermo Fariñas, the jailed independent machine from the before mentioned citizens: journalist on a hunger strike to demand Internet “On the disposition of Articles 53 and 54 of the Law access for all Cubans, the activists who have been of Penal Procedures, as relates to Articles 10, 58 victimized by violent physical harassment in fi rst paragraph through 59 second paragraph, 63 Holguín, and with Juan Carlos Herrera Acosta, a and 67 of the Constitution of the Republic of Cuba, political prisoner who has been the victim of cruel all related to establish the precedent resource of the and inhumane treatment at the Kilo 8 prison in suit in accordance with the following foundations: Camagüey. First, that on January 31, 2006, without following The fast was held at the home of Carlos Manuel the legally required formalities for carrying out the González Rodríguez, of the Claridad Human Rights action of police instruction consisting in the search Movement, at Calle Cepero Bonilla#2, Reparto of private homes, three agents of the National Alex Urquiola, Banes. The following organizations Revolutionary Police arrived at the home of Miguel

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 25 Santana Abreu, at Calle René Ramos Latur Number different: police persecuting and repressing the 28 carrying a typed one-page document without poor, offending them, beating them, fi ning them and a copy which according to Cuban law, must be condemning them to months or years in prison. left with the resident. They seized a fax machine The statement also indicated that activists who belonging to the citizen Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, defend the rights of Cuban citizens are harassed in who has yet to have his apparatus returned to him their own homes by the fascist mobs of the Rapid or even a resolution of the confi scation or some Response Brigades and that the elderly, women and form of act, constituting a violation of the right of children are terrorized by the savage vandalism of ownership established by Article 293 of our penal those who, in the name of a supposed humanitarian code. Second, that the seizure of said apparatus and proletarian revolution, destroy homes, and does not correspond to any penal process and thus insult and physically attack the residents within. the application of the unique special disposition is “It is now time to open the path toward peace, truth entirely illegal given that under Article 60 of the and ideas,” the note says. “All Cubans must conserve Cuban Constitution, relating to Article 44, 1 and their calm and serenity and not collaborate with 3 of the corresponding penal law, it is guaranteed those despicable repudiation rallies that may result and protected. Furthermore, the institution of in fatalities that no one wants for our country. We decommissioning, under the aforementioned say no to terror and violence.” penal code, is limited to an ongoing penal process Source: Oscar Sánchez Madan. Cubanet. and the object of the crime. Third, that neither the Cienfuegos, February 11, 2006. Members of client I represent nor the aforementioned citizen the National Board of Directors of the Liberal Party are currently under any type of penal procedure. of Cuba visited the party’s Cienfuegos delegation Therefore, it is herein ordered, and for the reasons to help restructure that organization. They held a alleged above, that the National Revolutionary working meeting at the provincial headquarters, Police return the confi scated apparatus. Given in located at Calle 55 #5612 e/56 y 58,which is the Moa, on the 10th day of the month of February of home of activist Alejandro Tur Valladares. 2006. Source: Julia Cecilia Delgado, Reinaldo Hernández Source: José Manuel de la Rosa Pérez. Directorio Cardona, Liberal Party of Cuba. Democrático Cubano. Havana, February 12, 2006. The Ladies in Havana, February 11, 2006. A new independent White, wives, mothers, sisters and relatives of library, named for the Ladies in White, was political prisoners, made their weekly Sunday inaugurated in the home of Patria Díaz Castillo, pilgrimage to the Santa Rita Church at 5ta. Avenida Calle Aranguren No.1, e/Calzada 10 de Octubre y 26, Miramar. y Dolores, Barrio La Palma, Municipio Arroyo Source: Laura Pollán, Lady in White and the wife Naranjo, in Havana. of the jailed independent journalist Héctor Maseda According to Víctor Ceferino Cadulzo Peña, in ad- Gutiérrez. Berta Soler Fernández, Lady in White dition to making books and magazines available to and the wife of imprisoned opposition leader Angel all those who are interested, the Ladies in White Moya Acosta. Library will host lectures and workshops on various Havana, February 12, 2006. Members of the topics as well as help children with library needs. Cerro municipal delegation of the Liberal Party of Source: José Antonio Fornaris, Cuba Verdad. Cuba met with the party’s national Board of Directors Shelyn Rojas. Cubanet. to determine their plan for training new members. Matanzas, February 11, 2006. The Alternative They met at the home of Sergio Hernández, located Option Independent Movement (MIOA) released a at Calle Panchito Gómez #253. statement calling on the Cuban government to put Source: Julia Cecilia Delgado, Reinaldo Hernández an end to the acts of violence committed against its Cardona, Liberal Party of Cuba. people and urging Cubans not to join these acts. Camagüey, February 12, 2006. The Awakening The statement expressed that the violent escalation Consciences program began with a seminar of repression organized by the political police and on ecology. Eight members of the Freedom of their supporters against civil society will not stop Expression Solidarity movement, which sponsored the popular push toward a democratic republic in the program, led the seminar. They analyzed the which all Cubans stop being treated like slaves by repercussions of the damages of the weak economy their rulers and like employees of foreign citizens. in our country, which has led to extensive ecological They added that, according to Fidel Castro, the disorder, especially in forest and water systems. country is immersed in a colossal battle of ideas but They also discussed the general report on the accords that, in the streets, one observes something quite reached at the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro in

26 A young man reads the work of General Rafael del Pino, the highest- ranking former military oﬃ cer who went into exile in 1987, taking with him a Cessna plane which he landed in Key West. This type of reading material, which is circulated in the independent libraries, is key to raising the consciousness of the population.

1992 and later in Kyoto, Japan in December 1997. Group on Minorities from the post offi ce at the The event was held in Reparto Torre Blanca in this FOCSA building in Havana, with receipt number city. In all, the program will include fi ve workshops 003199930. The letter asks for full respect for all on environmental issues, visits to sites where Cubans, for the rights and freedoms afforded by the environmental degradation can be appreciated and Universal Declaration of Human Rights passed by the possibility to distribute educational brochures the UN General Assembly in 1948 as well as for the on the matter, all in an effort to awaken consciences associated pacts and treaties. and inform citizens. Source: Moisés Leonardo Rodríguez Valdés . Source: Julio Romero Muñoz, Freedom of Havana, February 13, 2006. Thirty-fi ve Expression Solidarity Movement, Barrio Adentro neighbors of human rights activist Adrián Program, Radio República. Sánchez Ortega each wrote a letter testifying to Camagüey, February 12, 2006. The Ladies his good conduct and the inappropriateness of the in White, the wives, mothers, sisters and family accusation against him and the resulting one-year members of political prisoners from Camagüey, of imprisonment or house arrest to which he was attended Sunday mass at the Santa Ana Church, sentenced for supposedly being a socially dangerous located at General Gómez # 400 esquina a Bembeta individual. y Plaza de Santa Ana. The group prayed for the Source: José Antonio Fornaris, Cuba Verdad. release of all political prisoners. Shelyn Rojas, Cubanet. Gerardo Sánchez Ortega, Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political MCJD. prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. Havana, February 13, 2006. A group of 135 Havana, February 13, 2006. Moisés Leonardo Cubans, on their own accord, began an “urgent Rodríguez Valdés sent a letter addressed to Fidel action against violence” in Cuba, calling on their Castro with copy to the United Nations Working compatriots to join them in the project through

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 27 signing the petition. “Many Cuban citizens view with show our solidarity with our brothers currently on worry how, in a country where there is no public hunger strikes around the island, for the immediate debate about this topic, how threats and insults and unconditional release of all Cuban political have substituted communication among equals and prisoners and remember the four Brothers to the the necessary respect in our relations,” said the Rescur pilots shot down by Castro’s warplanes on convocation, with 135 signatures provided to Agence February 24, 1996,” indicated Gante Hidalgo in his France Press for international dissemination. report. Adding that “verbal and physical violence have Other peaceful dissidents from different captured a space in our living area at all levels of organizations gathered at the home to support the daily life and should be eradicated through concrete fasters. and preventive actions.” Source: Roberto Santana Rodríguez. Cubanet. Those who signed the action affi rm that “Cuba Matanzas, February 14, 2006. Members of deserves to live in peace with its neighbors and the Peace, Love and Freedom Party held a day of with itself, and we are responsible for making this prayer and fasting in the Colón Municipality from a reality.” 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. in support of Guillermo Fariñas, Source: Agence France Press. the independent journalist on a hunger strike since Holguín, February 13, 2006. The Eastern January 31. The event was held at the home of party Democratic Alliance sent a message of faith and president Juan Carlos Bueno Artola. In a setting hope to the entire Cuban people and forgiveness to of prayer and unity of criteria, the 12 participants the oppressors. At the same time, they called on all in the peaceful demonstration also called for the Christian churches on the island and throughout the release of Cuba’s political prisoners. world, on all people of faith and goodwill, and on all Source: Roberto Santana Rodríguez. Cubanet. democratic governments to help end the black night Camagüey, February 14, 2006. Various that has prevailed in Cuba for nearly fi fty years. prisoners, members of the Pedro Luis Boitel Defenders of human rights live and struggle with Association of Political Prisoners,, at Kilo 7 and the diffi cult certainty of democratic change in the Cerámica Roja prisons make public their support homeland. Hope cries out for, and need demands, for “El Coco” Fariñas and Noelia Pedraza Jiménez, help from the entire Christian and democratic who are holding a hunger strike to demand their universe. Cuba has need of you for nonviolent change legitimate right to freely access information. so that our liberty will reach fruition bloodlessly. The following members of the group of political Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, president of the prisoners took part in the event: Armando Sosa Eastern Democratic Alliance. Radio República. Fortuny, Ángel Tejera Rodríguez, Raidel Carmenate Santiago de Cuba, February 13, 2006. Madruga, Obayane Pérez Jiménez, Frank Alexei Pita Independent journalist and prisoner of conscience Armenteros, Enrique Martínez Rodríguez, Alexei José Gabriel Ramón Castillo began a hunger strike Martínez Torres, Félix Díaz Antúnez, Jesús Rojas to demand his conditional release on the account of Pineda and Jorge Luis García Pérez “Antúnez”. his delicate state of health. Source: Jorge Luis García Pérez “Antúnez”, from His wife, Blanca Rosa Echevarria, said that the Kilo 7, Camagüey, Radio República. reporter was transferred to the prison ward at Havana, February 15, 2006. The Freedom Ambrosio Grillo Hospital in Santiago de Cuba. Movement participated in a mass held at the She said she feared for the life of her husband, Santa Bárbara Parish, located in Havana’s Párraga who suffers from hepatic cirrhosis and arterial neighborhood, for all prisoners, but particularly obstruction. José Gabriel Castillo, 48, is one of the all Cuban political prisoners and prisoners of 75 activists and journalists arrested in the spring of conscience, and for those disappeared while in the 2003 and sentenced to long prison terms for their search for freedom. nonviolent opposition to the Castro regime. Castillo Source: Juan Francisco Humberto Guerra is serving a 20-year sentence. Perugorría, Freedom Movement. Havana, February 14, 2006. Víctor Yuniel Havana, February 15, 2006. The independent Fernández Martínez and Joenni Alonso Saínz, trade unionist and prisoner of conscience Miguel members of the Popular Republican Party, initiate a Galván Gutiérrez, condemned to 26 years in prison, 10-day fast at the home of Fernández Martínez, Calle rejected the quarterly hygiene and food visit that Tercera # 37 e/ Ensueño y Cantera, Reparto María he is entitled to in consideration of the fact that his Luisa, San Miguel del Padrón, reported Reinaldo rights are being violated as a prisoner of conscience Gante Hidalgo, the president of this organization. by the orders of State Security agents in the Agüica “The objective of this peaceful demonstration is to prison.

28 Activists pray for political prisoners and their families during the celebration of the second anniversary of the Eastern Democratic Alliance in the Methodist church of Antilla.

Galván Gutiérrez, sentenced along with 74 others organized the celebration, which was held at Calle in the spring of 2003 for alleged activities against Raúl Gómez#266, e/ Guillermo Tornés y C, Reparto the independence and integrity of the state, helped La Unión. Also joining in were youths that attend organize labor regarding the right to unionization the movement’s independent gymnasium. This and, as a journalist, covered numerous events held event, like others, was made possible by the support by dissidents and opposition activists in Cuba. of the Plantados Until Freedom and Democracy in Source: Víctor Manuel Domínguez, Lux Info Press. Cuba, and its director, Angel de Fana. Cubanet. Even though the repressive forces of the regime Holguín, February 15, 2006. Political prisoner prevented that fi rst historical sporting event from Nelson Vázquez Lima, held in the Holguín Provincial taking place, the great effort of opposition activists Prison, declared a hunger strike to protest his on behalf of the event was remembered. removal from his home province of Cienfuegos and Source: Gabriel Díaz Sánchez, president of the the confi scation of books and religious literature by Bayamo Youth Movement. prison authorities. Fellow political prisoners Randy Havana, February 16, 2006. The Liberal Party Cabrera Mayor, Luís Cabrera Ballester and Alfredo of Cuba issued 2000 copies of their information Domínguez Batista joined the hunger strike as a packet intended to disseminate the Party’s identity symbol of solidarity. and its projects, as well as to inform the Cuban Source: José Ramón Herrera Hernández, Eastern people how to join the Party and participate in its Democratic Alliance. activities. Granma, February 15, 2006. The members of the Source: Julia Cecilia Delgado and Reinaldo Bayamo Youth Movement met at the organization’s Hernández Cardona, Liberal Party of Cuba. headquarters to commemorate the fi rst anniversary Havana, February 16, 2006. Members of the of an independent athletics event in the city of “Frank País” 30th of November Democratic Party Bayamo. Francisco Juan Reyes Benítez, Joe Andrés began a vigil in the Maria Luisa neighborhood to Montoya Savilés, Giordanis Dieguez Rodríguez, support the hunger strike of independent journalist Reynier César Tornés, Antonio Santí Soto, Daniel Guillermo Fariñas and to call for the release of other Díaz Sánchez, Otniel Díaz Sánchez, Nelson Vireyes, political prisoners. In spite of repressive operations Félix Rivero Cordoví, Alexis Ramírez Rodríguez, by State Security forces, the activists maintained Gabriel Díaz Sánchez and Lilia Josefa Tita Cedeño the activity going through February 24 in order to

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 29 commemorate the day on which the Air Force of the Havana, February 18, 2006. Thirteen members Castro regime shot down two Brothers to the Rescue of the Liberal Party of Cuba held a fast in solidarity airplanes over international waters in 1996. with political prisoners at the home of Leonel Source: Raiza Martínez, “Frank País” 30th of Sánchez, located at Calle 10, Reparto Capri, 10 de November Democratic Party , La Habana Octobre. Villa Clara, February 16, 2006. The Villa Clara Source: Julia Cecilia Delgado and Reinaldo provincial delegation of the Cuban Liberal Movement Hernández Cardona, Liberal Party of Cuba. began a chain of 24-hour fasts in solidarity with the Havana, February 18, 2006. Thirteen members ongoing hunger strike of independent journalist of the Liberal Party of Cuba held a fast in solidarity Guillermo Fariñas Hernández. All of the group’s with political prisoners at the home of Héctor Julio members participated in the event, held at General Cedeño, located at Revillagigedo #6, Habana Vieja. Mariño #331A e/Campo y Circunvalación. Source: Julia Cecilia Delgado and Reinaldo Source: Idania Yanes Contreras, Marta Abreu Hernández Cardona, Liberal Party of Cuba. Women’s Movement and Yuniesky García López, Havana, February 18, 2006. The Ladies in Liberal Party of Cuba. White held their literary tea gathering. Early in the Holguín, February 16, 2006. The Eastern morning, they marched to the Havana Cathedral Democratic Alliance celebrated its second to participate in the mass. From there, they went anniversary. The group gathered at the home of to the home of Laura Pollán, on Calle Neptuno, to Silverio Herrera Acosta, located at Calle Camilo hold the gathering. Those present received the seals Cienfuegos #124 in Moa, to recount their activities. from the Andrei Sajarov Prize. They also accepted Similar events were also held at the Carlos Manuel the diplomas for Courage in the name of the de Céspedes Library at Calle B #2, e/A y C, Reparto prisoners of conscience from the Cuba Sí prison in Pueblo Nuevo, Antilla; as well as in Sagua Holguín. Though distant, Blanca Reyes, the wife and deTanamo, San Germán, Holguín, Gíbara y journalist Raúl Rivero, and Pablo Rodríguez joined Cacocum, despite the repression. in the celebration via telephone. Rodríguez, as well Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, José Herrera as Reyes and Rivero, support the Cuban opposition and Juan Carlos Garcell, Eastern Democratic and the independent press from their exile abroad. Alliance. Juan Carlos Garcell Pérez, Eastern Free Source: Shelyn Rojas. Cubanet. Press Agency. Matanzas, February 18, 2006. Six members Holguín, February 16, 2006. Eight activists of the Peace, Love and Freedom Party held a vigil gathered at the home of political prisoner Antonio for the release of Cuban political prisoners at the Dorado Domínguez, located at Calle El Embarcadero Gustavo Arcos Bergnes Library, which is in the home #6, Mariana Grajales in Banes, to celebrate the of Eufemio Álvarez la Fe, Calle 30 e/25 y 33 #2524, second anniversary of the Eastern Democratic Torriente, Jagüey Grande. Six people participated Alliance. They discussed the importance of this in the event. nonviolent movement for Cuba’s future. Rafael Source: Jorge Luís Álvarez García, Peace, Love and Dorado Domínguez, Marta Díaz Rondón, Maikel Freedom Party, Matanzas; Alejandrina García Verdecia Torres, Arnaldo Exposito Zaldivar, Juan de la Riva, wife of political prisoner Diosdado Luis Rodríguez Desdín, Maria Margarita Cruz González Marrero. Batista, Ramón Desdín González and Yosvani Camagüey, February 18, 2006. Around 7 Ricardo Cruz participated in the meeting. people, including Ladies in White, family members Source: Marta Díaz Rondón, Lucia Iñiguez of political prisoners and activists, gathered at Women’s Movement, Eastern Democratic Alliance, the home of Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, the wife of Director of the Gastón Baquero Independent political prisoner Alfredo Pulido López, to pray the Library; Dayamis Romero Ortiz, human rights rosary for all of the political prisoners and prisoners activist. Liannis Meriño Aguilera, Youths Without of conscience in Cuba. Censorship, Radio República . Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political Havana, February 18, 2006. Members of the prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. Liberal Party of Cuba held a fast in solidarity with Santiago de Cuba, February 18, 2006. About political prisoners. Fourteen activists participated in one dozen people, including family members of the event, held at the home of Reinaldo Hernández political prisoners and activists with the Christian Cardona, at Falgueras 413, e/Lombillo y Pinera, El Liberation Movement, gathered at the Nuestra Cerro. Señora del Rosario Church in Palma Soriano to Source: Julia Cecilia Delgado and Reinaldo pray the rosary for all of the political prisoners and Hernández Cardona, Liberal Party of Cuba. prisoners of conscience in Cuba. The relatives of

30 Human rights activists pose for a photo with some of the people who live in the illegal settlement of homes called Llega y Pon in Diezmero on February 19. The opposition activists went there to give out medicine, clothes, toys and childrenʼs literature to some 60 people who are surviving in subhuman conditions as a result of extreme poverty.

political prisoners read letters they have received in White, the wives, mothers, sisters and family from jail. The following activists participated in members of political prisoners from Camagüey, the event: Belkis Cantillo, Amelia García Vega, attended Sunday mass at the Santa Ana Church, Ana Belkis Ferrer García, Gerardo Miranda, Yuniel located at General Gómez # 400 esquina a Bembeta Santos de la Cruz and Norberto Díaz Peña. y Plaza de Santa Ana. The group prayed for the Source: Ana Belkis Ferrer García, sister of the release of all political prisoners. imprisoned Ferrer García brothers and member of Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political the Christian Liberation Movement. prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. Havana, February 19, 2006. Donations of Holguín, February 19, 2006. Twenty-four medicine, clothing, toys and children’s books were activists celebrated the second anniversary of the handed out to about 60 Cubans living in squalid Eastern Democratic Alliance by gathering at the conditions in the squatters’ community of “Llega y Wenceslao Aguilera Feria Independent Library, Pon” in Diezmero. The work of Cuban human rights located at Calle Celia Sánchez Manduley #33 e/ activists and international supporters included Máximo Gómez y Diego M. Yedra, in Antilla. medical assistance for the residents. Participating Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas and José Ramón were Yusnaimy Jorge Soca, Daniel Mesa Cantillo, Herrera, Eastern Democratic Alliance. Liannis Leticia Careaga, José Lorenzo Hidalgo, and Darsi Meriño Aguilera. Ferrer Ramírez, as well as a child, Dariel Ferrer Havana, February 20, 2006. Members of the Jorge. National Board of Directors of the Liberal Party of Havana, February 19, 2006. The Ladies in Cuba met with the party’s Holguín delegation to White, the wives, mothers, sisters and relatives of evaluate the 2005 report. They met at the home of political prisoners, made their weekly pilgrimage Julia Cecilia Delgado, 20 de mayo #531 Apt. B 14, to the Santa Rita Church at 5ta. Avenida y 26, e/Marta Abreu y Línea, Cerro. Miramar. Source: Julia Cecilia Delgado, Liberal Party of Source: Laura Pollán, wife of jailed independent Cuba. journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. Havana, February 20 - 24, 2006. Ladies Havana, February 19, 2006. A new non- in White Alejandrina García de la Riva, Berta governmental organization was offi cially founded Soler, Laura Pollán, Julia Nuñez y Yailín, a cousin under the name Commission for Attention to of Alexis Rodríguez Fernández, carried out a Political Prisoners and their Families. pilgrimage to the Santuario del Cobre in Santiago The founding took place at the home of the group’s de Cuba. The objective of the pilgrimage was to pray vice president, Lázaro Prieto Álvarez, Calle 10 de to Our Lady of Charity, the patron saint of Cuba, Octubre#1468 e/Gertrudis y Lagueruela, Reparto for the release of their family members and peace Víbora, in Havana. and reconciliation for the Cuban people. Amidst Froilán Osmany Rodríguez Sánchez is the the repression they suffer, they organized the trip commission’s president. Also present at the NGO’s secretly. After attending the mass offi ciated by founding was Sergio Pastor Martínez Carrazana, Father Jorge Alejandro at the Sanctuary, they held public relations; Ricardo Aguilar García, human a “training meeting” with those who live within the rights; Cristóbal Soriano Argudín, fi nances, and Sanctuary and in the village of Cobre. Alejandrina organization coordinators Pedro Leonel Ordoñez, denounced the authorities of Santiago de Cuba for Jóse Lorenzo Pérez Fidalgo and Daniel Mesa not permitting the wives of other prisoners to travel Castillo. to the Sanctuary, as they had planned. Source: Shelyn Rojas. Cubanet. Source: Alejandrina García de la Riva, Lady in Camagüey, February 19, 2006. The Ladies White and wife of political prisoner Diosdado PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 31 González Marrero; Miriam Leyva, Lady in White it while “the Venezuelans who come to Cuba for eye and wife of political prisoner Oscar Espinosa Chepe; operations receive it immediately,” said Graciela, Carlos Serpa Maceira, Lux Info Press Agency and who lives in Reparto Guernica, Camagüey. “A few the director of the Cuba-Miami Information Bridge hours after hanging the sign on my door, a policeman press agency. knocked and asked if I was crazy. I told him that Camagüey, February 21, 2006. More than 100 I wanted to head to Venezuela so that I could get neighbors came out in solidarity with Herminda an eye operation in record time, as they do for the Bruce Díaz to oppose the injustice committed against Venezuelans who are fl own here and back – with her and her family. When police offi cers arrived to healthier eyesight – for free. Like a dog attacking evict Bruce Díaz and her family, they were greeted his master, he ripped down my sign and threatened by shouts of indignation and rocks thrown from to take me to jail for speaking ill of the Revolution. the patios of the neighborhood surrounding Calle Once I had made sure that he was gone, I wrote the Osmún #28, e/Callejón Marquesado y Peralta, in sign again and hung it up. A few days later, I took it Camagüey. down at my husband’s urging,” Graciela recounted. Source: Armando Betancourt, Radio República. Source: Ramón Guerra Javier, Nueva Prensa Pinar del Río, February 22, 2006. More than Cubana, Barrio Adentro Program, Radio 25 people gathered to celebrate the fi rst anniver- República. sary of the inauguration of the Lincoln Díaz-Balart Havana, February 23, 2006. Members of Independent Library, located at Calle Garmendía the Assembly to Promote Civil Society held a fast #21 e/Volcán y Antonio Guiteras, Pinar del Río. The at Tomás Barrero#396 to protest against the library’s director is José A. Ballart Ochoa. The activ- government of Communist dictator Fidel Castro ist Blanca Castro León y the restorer Alexis Abad for its intentions to arrest nonviolent opposition Hernández are also librarians at the facility. leader Martha Beatriz Roque. Also participating Source: Ramón Suárez Díaz, “Frank País” 30th of were members of other dissident organizations, November Democratic Party and José A. Ballart including: “Frank País” 30th of November Ochoa, National Movement of the Free People of Democratic Party , The Freedom and Democracy Cuba “Josué País García”. Movement, a delegate from Pro Cambio, journalists Havana, February 22, 2006. The Freedom and independent librarians. Each of the peaceful Movement participated in a mass held at the Santa dissidents who took part in the fast hung a black Bárbara Parish, for all political prisoners, especially ribbon on the door of his or her house and lit a Cuban prisoners of conscience, and for those free- candle, all in spite of harassment from informants dom seekers who have disappeared. and members of the political police. Source: Juan Francisco Humberto Guerra Source: Tania de la Torre Montesinos, “El Grito Perugorría, Freedom Movement. de la Patria” Independent Press Bureau. Radio Villa Clara, February 22, 2006. The Independent República. Library Proyecto Cuba Libre 2 opened at Avenida Pinar del Río, February 24, 2006. More than 18 41, e/14 y 16, altos C6, Bloque 2, Caibarién, in Villa people participated in a vigil at the home of activist Clara. Its director, Javier Delgado Torres, is an Blanca E. Castro León, Calle Celso Maragoto #113 activist with the National Association of Rafters for e/ Antonio Guiteras y Avellaneda, to commemorate Human Rights, Peace, Democracy and Freedom. the victims of the Brothers to the Rescue planes that The inauguration of the library was intended to were shot down. increase the democratic cultural education of civil Source: Ramón Suarez Diaz, “Frank País” 30th of society and possesses 293 volumes. Representatives November Democratic Party and José A. Ballart from the Rafters Association and the “Frank País” Ochoa, National Movement of the Free People of 30th of November Democratic Party were present Cuba“Josué País García”. at the event. Pinar del Río, February 24, 2006. Over 20 Source: María Caridad Noa González, vice members of the “Frank País” 30th of November president, the National Association of Rafters Democratic Party gathered at the home of provincial “Peace, Democracy and Freedom”. Radio delegate Ramón Suarez Díaz, located at Avenida República. Borrego edifi cio 32 apto. 2ª Reparto Hermanos Camagüey, February 22, 2007. A woman Cruz, Pinar del Río, for a memorial vigil for the suffering from cataracts in both eyes places a sign victims of the downing of the Brothers to the Rescue in the front of her house that reads, “I’m going to planes, which took place on February 24, 1996. The Venezuela”, as for the past three years, she has been group also called for justice to be carried out in the requesting medical attention and has yet to receive lamentable crime.

32 The Ladies in White meet in Havana after holding their Literary Tea in February in honor of their imprisoned relatives.

Alejandrina García de la Riva, the wife of Diosdado González Marrero and one of the Ladies in White, reads the Bible in a mass celebrated in the Sanctuary of Our Some of the Ladies in White gathered in front of the Basilica of Lady of Charity of El Cobre, where they gathered to Our Lady of Charity of El Cobre, Santiago de Cuba. pray for the freedom of their family members. PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 33 José Félix Rodríguez Rodríguez, CONIC, and of 2003 commemorated the 111th anniversary of the Octavio Suarez Diaz, “Frank País” 30th of start of the war for Cuban independence and the 10th November Democratic Party . anniversary of the downing of two civil airplanes Pinar del Río, February 24, 2006. The Máximo from the Brothers to the Rescue humanitarian Gómez Báez National Civic Movement held an organization by Cuban warplanes. activity to commemorate yet another anniversary Efrén Fernández and Héctor Raúl Valle, members of the downing of the 1996 Brothers to the Rescue of the Christian Liberation Movement; José Miguel planes over international waters. Twelve members Martínez, vice president of the CTDC trade union of the movement participated in the event, held at and José Ubaldo Izquierdo, independent journalist the home of Yarobi Ramos Díaz, at Calle 5ta e/Elsa with the Decoro Working Group, hung Cuban ﬂ ags y San Ignacio, Reparto Cuba Libre, Pinar del Río. from the windows of their jail cells at the Guanajay Source: Mario Izquierdo Sotolongo, Máximo prison. They invoked a prayer chain for the souls Gómez Báez National Civic Movement. of the four Brothers to the Rescue pilots and in Havana, February 24, 2006. Peaceful homage to the historical day in 1895 when Cuban opposition activists held a meeting at the home of patriots inspired and led by José Martí restarted the Ismael Borges Reñí in the Boyeros municipality struggle for the island’s independence. of Havana to remember the four Brothers to the “Our country’s freedom has yet to be achieved; Rescue murdered on this date. we continue to struggle to truly obtain it,” said Source: Radio República. Izquierdo Hernández. Havana, February 24, 2006. Members of the Source: Roberto Santana Rodríguez. Cubanet. Liberal Party of Cuba held an activity in Havana to Matanzas, February 24, 2006. In commemorate the downing of the Brothers to the commemoration of the 111th anniversary of the start Rescue planes. Seventeen activists participated in of the Cuban War of Independence and the 10th the event, held at the home of Reinaldo Hernández anniversary of the shooting down of the Brothers to Cardona, at Falgueras 413, e/Lombillo y Pinera, El the Rescue planes, 14 activists from the Alternative Cerro. Option opposition group met at their headquarters, Source: Julia Cecilia Delgado and Reinaldo located at Calle 22#910, e/19 y 21, Pedro Betancourt, Hernández Cardona, Liberal Party of Cuba. Matanzas. Havana, February 24, 2006. Members of the The event that took place between 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Liberal Party of Cuba held an activity in Havana to featured a reﬂ ection on the country’s history and commemorate the downing of the Brothers to the the unsustainable situation it currently endures Rescue planes. Twenty-two activists participated in under the communist dictatorship. the event at the home of Hector Julio Cedeño, at At nearly the same time as the commemoration Revillagigedo #6, Habana Vieja. began, some 200 people arrived in front of the house Source: Julia Cecilia Delgado and Reinaldo carrying signs and shouting slogans. They carried Hernández Cardona, Liberal Party of Cuba. sticks in their hands in a threatening manner, Havana, February 24, 2006. Members of the formed a human wall and shouted angrily. A truck Liberal Party of Cuba held an activity in Havana to with powerful loudspeakers, known in the area as commemorate the downing of the Brothers to the trumpets, also arrived. These trumpets are capable Rescue planes. Twelve activists participated in the of bursting anyone’s eardrums. The loudspeakers event at the home of Leonel Sanchez, located at can be heard from as far as three kilometers away. Calle 10, Reparto Capri, 10 de octubre. They installed a stage and started their diatribe will Source: Julia Cecilia Delgado and Reinaldo all kinds of offenses, disrespectful words and even Hernández Cardona, Liberal Party of Cuba. death threats. The uproar continued until 2 p.m. Havana, February 24, 2006. Members of the – nearly six or seven hours berating the 14 people Cuban Liberal Movement in Punta Brava, La Lisa, inside. held a vigil at the home of Punta Brava Delegate The neighborhood did not support this Repudiation Silvio Benítez Márquez, Avenida 249 #4614 e/ 46 Rally and they shouted at the mob, calling them, y 48, to pray for the victims of the Brothers to the “Murderers, cowards, this is abuse, those people Rescue airplanes and their family members. More don’t bother anyone!” The locals were outraged than one dozen activists participated in the event. and this greatly paralysed the aggression of the Source: Roberto Miranda and Silvio Benítez fascist groups of the Rapid Response Brigades. Márquez, Cuban Liberal Movement. The members of the Alternative Option were never Havana, February 24, 2006. Four prisoners of intimidated by the attack and when the assaults on conscience from among the 75 arrested in the spring the doors became violent, they moved away from

34 Fourteen activists from the Cuban Human Rights Foundation throw ﬂ owers on the beach of Macabí, in the Municipality of Banes, in Holguín, in memory of the victims of Brothers to the Rescue, whose planes were brought down on February 24, 1996.

Members of the “Pedro Luis Boitel” Civic Resistance National Movement throw ﬂ oral oﬀ erings in a river in Moa, Holguín, in memory of the Brothers to the Rescue on February 24.

Activists from the Peace, Love, and Freedom Party throw fl owers into the Bay of Matanzas in homage to the young people of Brothers to the Rescue murdered by the Castro regime. them to the back patio to continue the meeting. Peace, Love and Freedom Party cast a fl oral offering They remained calm even when the mob tried to into the waters of the Bay of Matanzas, north of invade the patio and the verbal and physical attacks the city of the same name, to commemorate the on property escalated. downing of the Brothers to the Rescue planes and Source: Juan Francisco Sigler Amaya, Radio to demonstrate their opposition to the wayward República. and murderous Cuban government. Andrés Govea Matanzas, February 24, 2006. Members of the Suárez, Raymundo de Toro, Jorge Luís Álvarez, PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 35 Rolando Wang, Ramón Verdecia, Eufemio Alberto Source: Idalberto González Gómez, Nationalist Sigler Martín, Tania Morejón, Belkis Tellechea, Civic Movement. Alejandrina de la Rivas and Alberto Amaya Villa Clara, February 24, 2006. The Maceo participated in the event. Movement for Dignity carries out an activity to Source: Jorge Luís Álvarez García, Peace, Love and remember the downing of the Brothers to the Rescue Freedom Party, Matanzas; Alejandrina García planes, beginning at 9 a.m. at the home of Roque de la Riva, wife of political prisoner Diosdado Emilio Martínez Angulo, San Cristóbal #453, e/ A González Marrero. y Libertades, Reparto Raúl Sancho. Twelve people Villa Clara, February 24, 2006. A vigil was held participated in the meeting, which took place under in homage to the four Brothers to the Rescue pilots. strict police surveillance. Six human rights activists took part in the event at Source: Idania Yánes Contreras, Marta Abreu Maceo #59, Guayos, Sancti Spiritus. Women’s Movement; Roque Emilio Martínez Source: Margarito Broche Espinosa, National Angulo, Maceo Movement for Dignity. Association of Rafters for Peace, Human Rights, Villa Clara, February 24, 2006. Members of Democracy and Freedom. “Frank País” 30th of November Democratic Party Villa Clara, February 24, 2006. Members of held a memorial for the downed Brothers to the the “Frank País” 30th of November Democratic Rescue pilots at the home of Luis Silvano Agüero, Party held a commemorative activity in the city of Calle Zoila Estrella # 32 e/ Llorente y Maria Teresa, Placetas to remember the Brothers to the Rescue Báez. The group held a prayer session, fast and a who were violently murdered by the Castro regime’s march from his home. warplanes over international waters. The event took Source: Luis Silvano Agüero and Luis Gallardo, place at Calle 5ta del Oeste #58 e/3ra y 4ta del Sur “Frank País” 30th of November Democratic Party in Placeras. Sancti Spíritus, February 24, 2006. Activists Source: Amado Ruiz Moreno, “Frank País” 30th of from the “Frank País” 30th of November Democratic November Democratic Party . Party and the Cuban Foundation for Human Rights Villa Clara, February 24, 2006. Activists gathered on the pedestrian walkway along the held a memorial for the downed Brothers to banks of the Yayabo River in Reparto Jesús María, the Rescue pilots at the home of Bernardo Luis Sancti Spíritus to remember the 1996 downing of Ascanio Camargo, General Mariño #331 e/Campo y the Brothers to the Rescue airplanes. They prayed Circunvalación, Santa Clara. Eighteen people met in and joined the families of the murdered pilots, spite of the taunts and antics of the Rapid Response Mario Manuel de la Peña, Carlos Costa, Armando Brigades, a paramilitary group organized by State Alejandre Jr. and Pablo Morales, in mourning. Security. The 12 activists prayed for justice to shine light on Source: Idania Yanes Contreras, Marta Abreu such crimes in Cuba and cast fl owers into the river, Women’s Movement and Yuniesky García López, followed by a moment of silence. Liberal Party of Cuba. Source: Ana Margarita Perdigón Brito, “Frank Villa Clara, February 24, 2006. To commemorate País” 30th of November Democratic Party . the Grito de Baire and the downing of the Brothers National Movement of Civic Resistance “Pedro to the Rescue airplanes, both of which took place on Luis Boitel” (MNRC-PLB). this day in past years, the Proyecto Cuba Libre #2 Camagüey, February 24, 2006. Seven political Independent Library was inaugurated in Caibarién. prisoners commemorated the tenth anniversary Twelve activists, including representatives of the of the downing of the two Brothers to the Rescue National Association of Rafters for Human Rights, planes with a fast in the Cerámica Roja prison in Peace, Democracy and Freedom and the “Frank Camagüey. From their cells, René Montes de Oca País” 30th of November Democratic Party . Martija, Erizaldo Calvo, Egberto Ángel Escobedo Source: Margarito Broche Espinosa, National Morales, Aldo Carnesolta, Raidel Aróstegui, Jorge Association of Rafters for Peace, Human Rights, Luis Suárez Varona and Lázaro González Adán Democracy and Freedom. fasted to pay homage to the four pilots who were Villa Clara, February 24, 2006. A joint meeting murdered by the Fidel Castro regime on February between the Christian Democratic Movement 24, 1996. In this way, these prisoners, who are also of Cuba, the Nationalist Civic Movement, and victims of Cuba’s communist dictatorship, joined Plantados Until Freedom and Democracy in Cuba those around the nation and in exile, as well as was held to commemorate the Grito de Baire and the those in other Cuban prisons, in praying for and airborne murder of four members of the Brothers to remembering the dead and calling for an end to the the Rescue organization. obloquy and crime against those who oppose the

36 Castro dictatorship. achieve their goals after Augusto Hernández de los Source: Marilín Díaz Fernández, correspondent Ángeles, Omar Wilson Estévez Real, José Manuel with Lux Info Press in Camagüey. Radio de la Rosa Pérez and others were visited during República. the night by State Security agents who threatened Camagüey, February 24, 2006. Antigovernment that the public would beat them if they took to the posters appear in the produce markets and on INRA streets on February 24. The activists all went out busses during the early morning hours in the city and commemorated the date in spite of the threat. of Camagüey, all places where many people gather. Source: Juan Carlos Garcell Pérez, Eastern Free The signs referred to the shortage of food and the Press Agency. Radio República. lack of liberty in the country, overtly rejecting Holguín, February 24, 2006. Seven members of the persecution suffered by independent sellers. the Eastern Democratic Alliance (ADO) celebrated Although the news of these signs was not published the Grito de Baire in a roundtable discussion of the in the offi cial media, it spread quickly by word of independence struggle. They also deposited fl oral mouth as an important happening. Nearly everyone offerings for the Brothers to the Rescue victims realized that it coincided with the anniversary of shot down by the Castro regime. The meeting was the downing of the Brothers to the Rescue planes. held at the home of Rubildo de la Cruz Roche, who The police made a few arrests, but the popular lives at Calle Felipe Romero y Los Mangos, Sagua discontent reached a wide audience. de Tánamo. Source: Fernando Tabares. Radio República. Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, José Herrera and Holguín, February 24, 2006. Fourteen activists Juan Carlos Garcell, Eastern Democratic Alliance. from the Cuban Foundation for Human Rights Marta Díaz Rondón, Lucia Iñiguez Women’s threw fl owers into the sea from the Macabí Beach in Movement, Eastern Democratic Alliance, Director Banes in memory of the Brothers to the Rescue who of the Gastón Baquero Independent Library; were killed. They prayed for the victims’ souls and Dayamis Romero Ortiz, human rights activist. for peace and tranquility for their families. Santiago de Cuba, February 24, 2006. More Source: Juan Carlos González Leiva, Cuban than 40 members of the Cuban Youth for Democracy Foundation for Human Rights. Movement met at the home of the group’s national Holguín, February 24, 2006. A group of activists coordinator, Calle Princesa e/ Cortes y Virgen, to with the Eastern Democratic Alliance, the Cuban remember the patriotic day marking the start of Liberal Movement and the Pro-Human Rights the wars of independence. Later, they went to the Party, an affi liate organization of the Andrei Sajarov provincial capital for a mass in honor of the four Foundation, managed to cast a fl oral offering into Brothers to the Rescue who were killed by Cuban Air the sea to commemorate the shooting down of Force fi ghter jets while conducting humanitarian the Brothers to the Rescue planes, in which four missions over international waters of the Strait of Cubans were murdered over international waters. Florida. The fl owers were deposited in different parts of the Havana, February 25, 2006. Ediciones Vitral Bahía de Nipe, the Capiro beach, the Curva and the released Metaphysics Volume II, by Father Félix place known as El Cabotaje. José Carlos Herrera Varela, during a cultural ceremony at the Pinar Rodríguez, Jorge Ruiz Rivas Marín, Rolando Díaz del Río Cathedral. The book, written in Latin in Matos, Dailon Roberto Ramírez Aguilar, Miguel 1812, was presented in a panel comprising Amaury Idarte Leyva, José Ramón Herrera Hernández, Carbón Sierra, Latin scholar and translator, and Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, Héctor Ramón Foré Amaury F. Gutiérrez Coto, editor. Sánchez, Ángel Batista Vega and Nelson Antonio This day marked the 153rd anniversary of the Chang Lecusay participated in the activity. author’s death. The book – a literary and historical Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, Eastern gem – is bilingual. Democratic Alliance, Radio República. Padre Varela’s work was hidden from the populace Holguín, February 24, 2006. To commemorate for many decades and was recently made public by February 24, the day when two Brothers to the Cuban Catholics. Rescue airplanes were shot down over international Source: Lucas Garve, Foundation for the Freedom waters by Cuban Air Force fi ghter jets, 20 human of Expression. Cubanet. rights activists from different parts of the mining Isla de Pinos, February 26, 2006. For the fi rst town of Moa gathered amidst a repressive time ever, the book, “Voices Behind Bars, a testimony environment to remember this date. The peaceful of the historical and ongoing political imprisonment dissidents deposited fl oral offerings in rivers and in Cuba, circulated in Isla de Pinos. The Julio Tang creeks. They had to use the element of surprise to Texier Civic Cultural Project launched the book in

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 37 Nueva Gerona, distributing numerous copies among of the Cuban people that is censored by the offi cial activists and general populace. Twenty people were press. Seven activists took part in the inauguration. involved in the book launch. Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, Eastern Source: Carlos Serpa Maceira, independent Democratic Alliance, Radio República. journalist, Lux Info Press. Holguín, February 26, 2006. Members of the Havana, February 26, 2006. The Ladies in Cuban Foundation for Human Rights and Eastern White, the wives, mothers, sisters and relatives of Democratic Alliance held a prayer session for unity political prisoners, made their weekly pilgrimage to and national reconciliation at the Nuestra Señora the Santa Rita Church at 5ta. Avenida y 26, Miramar. de Caridad Church, in the Banes municipality. There, they prayed for the political prisoners to be They prayed to the Virgin of Charity for all political released. prisoners and their families and placed a white Source: Laura Pollán, wife of jailed independent fl ower at the Virgin’s feet as a peace symbol. The journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. following activists participated in the event: Camagüey, February 26, 2006. The Ladies Guillermo Llanos, Marta Díaz Rondón, Juan Oriol in White, the wives, mothers, sisters and family Verdecia, Maikel Verdecia, Maria Margarita Cruz members of political prisoners from Camagüey, Batista, Ramón Desdín González, Arnaldo Expósito attended Sunday mass at the Santa Ana Church, Zaldívar, Juan Luís Rodríguez Desdín, Marta Cecilia located at General Gómez # 400 esquina a Bembeta Pérez Duconjer, Bárbara Ortiz Piris, Dayamis y Plaza de Santa Ana. The group prayed for the Romero Ortiz, Liannis Meriño Aguilera, Yosvani release of all political prisoners. Ricardo Cruz, and Santo Alberto Escalona Blanco Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political Source: Marta Díaz, Lucia I ñiguez Women’s prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. Movement, Eastern Democratic Alliance, Director Holguín, February 26, 2006. The Carlos Manuel of the Gastón Baquero Independent Library; de Céspedes Independent Library opened at Calle Dayamis Romero Ortiz, human rights activist. B,#2 e/A y C, Reparto Pueblo Nuevo, Antilla. It has Villa Clara, February 27, 2006. Fifteen 257 volumes classifi ed as political, novels, children’s members of the Maceo Movement for Dignity literature, sciences and other topics. The library also held a 24-hour fast in solidarity with independent has about 50 magazines and other periodicals. Its journalist Guillermo Fariñas Hernández and director, José Ramón Herrera Hernández, said that human rights activist Noelia Pedraza Jiménez, on the library’s main objective is to disseminate free, hunger strike to protest the brutal beatings against democratic and uncensored literature, delivering dissidents and calling for the right of all Cubans to the testimonies and opinions of Cuban writers to have access to the Internet. the public and, in other areas, revealing the reality Source: Idania Yánes Contreras, Marta Abreu

A vigil for freedom without forced exile for Cuban political prisoners, celebrated by members of the “Frank País”30th of November Democratic Party.

38 Every Wednesday, in hundreds of homes and streets in Cuba, human rights activists gather to celebrate the vigil without forced exile for all Cuban political prisoners. The table seen on this page summarizes the days and locations where these vigils took place during the month of February. At the end of each month, a table like the one that appears below documents the vigils for freedom without forced exile for Cuban political prisoners held in the corresponding month. During these activities, participants pray, read bible passages, interchange ideas and future projects, and speak about the lives and activism of the prisoners.

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 39 MARCH 2006 Havana, March 1, 2006. The Freedom Movement Solidarity Movement. participated in a mass held at the Santa Bárbara Holguín, March 1, 2006. Tired of waiting for Parish, for prisoners, especially Cuban political the bus, Danilo Alonso Saínz, 21, of Samá Arriba, prisoners and prisoners of conscience, and for those Banes, started shouting anti-Castro phrases. He freedom seekers who have disappeared. was arrested and accused of the alleged crime of Source: Juan Francisco Humberto Guerra disrespect to Fidel Castro. He was held for 10 hours Perugorría, Freedom Movement; Anaika Paneca before posting a 500-peso bail to await trial . Román, “Frank País” 30th of November Democratic Source: Liannis Meriño Aguilera. Youths Without Party ; Ángel De Fana Serrano, Plantados Until Censorship. Freedom and Democracy in Cuba. Holguín, March 1, 2006. From Banes, Liannis Villa Clara, March 1, 2006. Members of the Meriño Aguilera called on the young people of National Board of Directors of the Liberal Party Cuba to take off the mask of lies and not permit the of Cuba visited the party’s Villa Clara delegation dictatorship to humiliate them through cheating to assess organizational growth plans. In total, and repression. He called for unity and love, and for 17 party members were present at the meeting at Cuban youths to free themselves and take hold of Calle Alemán #615 e/ Misioneros y Hospital, Santa the reigns of their own fate. Clara. Source: Liannis Meriño Aguilera. Youths Without Source: Julia Cecilia Delgado and Reinaldo Censorship, Radio República. Hernández Cardona, Liberal Party of Cuba. Villa Clara, March 2, 2006. Liberal Party of Villa Clara, March 1, 2006. The “Frank País” Cuba delegate Yuniesky García López joins others 30th of November Democratic Party held a vigil in a fast in support of the independent journalist in Baez to pray for the freedom without exile of all Guillermo Fariñas Hernández and activist Noelia Cuban political prisoners. They met at the home of Pedraza Jiménez, who continue their hunger the party’s deputy delegate, Luis Silvano Agüero strike. Hernández, Calle Zoila Estrella #32 e/ Llorente Source: Idania Yanes Contreras, Marta Abreu y Maria Teresa, Báez. They continued the event Women’s Movement, and Yuniesky García López, even as a government-organized mob attempted Liberal Party of Cuba. to disrupt them, and when they opened the door at Villa Clara, March 3, 2006. Demanding a the end of the vigil, a group of neighbors showed response to the just request of Guillermo Fariñas spontaneous solidarity with the dissidents and and Noelia Pedraza, Roque E. Martínez Angulo refused to cooperate with repression. and Luís Aragón García, members of the Maceo Source: Luis Silvano Agüero, “Frank País” 30th of Movement for Dignity, declare a fast. November Democratic Party . Source: Idania Yánes Contreras, Marta Abreu Camagüey, March 1, 2006. Filiberto González Women’s Movement. Victoria, the 39-year-old political prisoner from Holguín, March 3, 2006. Activists from Central Lugareño held at the Kilo 9 prison, sewed the Cuban Human Rights Foundation and the his mouth closed with wire to protest that his rights Eastern Democratic Alliance celebrated the eighth have been consistently violated during six years of anniversary of the foundation of independent imprisonment. libraries in Cuba. The event, featuring lively Source: Yosbel González Plaza, member of the literary debates, was held at the Gastón Baquero group Looking at the world through prison bars independent library, located at Calle Carlos Manuel Camagüey, March 1, 2006. Volume 4, Issue de Céspedes #2007 e/ Avenida de Cárdenas y 24 of El Camagüeyano newsletter was published, General Marrero, Banes. The following were in replete with many sections including a declaration attendance: Guillermo Llanos Ricardo, Liannis signed by political prisoner Jorge Luis Garcia Pérez Meriño Aguilera, Marta Díaz Rondón, Juan Oriol “Antúnez”, an article on the Assembly to Promote Verdecia Evora, Maikel Verdecia Torres, Maria Civil Society in Cuba, the opening of an independent Margarita Cruz Batista, Juan Luís Rodríguez Desdin, library, opinions and criticisms. Idalmis Desdin Salguero, Ramón Desdin González, Source: Luis Guerra Juvier, Nueva Prensa Cubana; Arnaldo Expósito Escalona, Bárbara Ortiz Piris, Julio Romero Muñoz, Freedom of Expression Dayamis Romero, Santo Alberto Escalona Blanco,

40 Nancy Rojas Feria, Andres Perez Peña and Mario Camagüey, March 5, 2006. The Ladies in White, Rojas Feria. the wives, mothers, sisters and family members Source: Marta Díaz Rondón, Lucia Iñiguez of political prisoners from Camagüey, attended Women’s Movement, Eastern Democratic Alliance, Sunday mass at the Santa Ana Church, located at Director of the Gastón Baquero Independent General Gómez #400 esquina a Bembeta y Plaza de Library; Dayamis Romero Ortiz, human rights Santa Ana. The group prayed for the release of all activist. political prisoners and prisoners of conscience. Holguín, March 3 - March 6, 2006. Following Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political a special activity to support independent libraries, prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. activists from the Cuban Human Rights Foundation Camagüey, March 5, 2006. The Mahatma and the Eastern Democratic Alliance began a fast Gandhi independent library was opened. Marlene in solidarity with independent journalist Guillermo Bermúdez Sardiñas, a resident of Reparto Florá Fariñas Hernández. They prayed for his health and and a member of the Christian Democratic Party for all political prisoners at the Gastón Baquero of Cuba, runs the library. At the inauguration, they independent library, located at Calle Carlos Manuel read the declaration of libraries’ rights, ratiﬁ ed by de Céspedes 2007, e/ Avenida de Cárdenas y General the American Library Association in 1948, as well as Marrero, in Banes. Marta Díaz Rondón, Juan Oriol a biographical description of the library’s namesake. Verdecia Evora, Maikel Verdecia Torres, Alberto The main purpose of the library is to “break yet Escalona Blanco, Arnaldo Exposito Zaldivar, Idalmis again the censorship imposed by the Castro regime Desdín Salguero, Benigno Pérez Santiesteban and since 1959.” Juan Luis Rodríguez Desdín all fasted. Source: Armando Betancourt, New Cuban Press, Source: Marta Díaz Rondón, Lucia Iñiguez Radio República. Women’s Movement, Eastern Democratic Alliance, Villa Clara, March 6, 2006. Members of the Director of the Gastón Baquero Independent Christian Democratic Movement of Cuba began a Library; Dayamis Romero Ortiz, human rights fast in solidarity with Guillermo Fariñas Hernández, activist. in his 34th day of hunger strike without receiving a Camagüey, March 4 - 26, 2006. Prisoner of response from the authorities. In serious condition, conscience Juan Carlos Herrera Acosta went on a the independent journalist has been moved to the hunger strike to protest the unjust imprisonment of intensive care unit. the 75 nonviolent dissidents who were arrested and Source: Roberto Carlos Pérez García, national sentenced to long jail terms in March 2003, known coordinator of the Christian Democratic Movement as the Black Spring of Cuba. Herrera Acosta is of Cuba, Radio República. serving a 20-year sentence at the Kilo 8 maximum Villa Clara, March 6, 2006. The national security prison in Camagüey. coordinator of the Christian Democratic Movement He describes his situation:“I have been unjustly of Cuba, Roberto Carlos Pérez García, called on the imprisoned for three years, removed from my Cuban people to not permit the Cuban Communist home province and victimized through physical Party to use them in the “repudiation rallies, which and psychological torture, and the food is terrible. I are no more than fascist activities.” He denounced am sick with symptoms that only get worse but I do his expulsion from his workplace simply for thinking not receive regular medical attention. I have heart and acting differently and refuting those who called problems, blockage in the right artery, murmurs, him a mercenary. arterial hypertension, hepatic and renal conditions, Source: Roberto Carlos Pérez García, Radio asthma, allergies and my body weight is too low.” República. Source: Luis Esteban Espinosa and Liannis Meriño Granma, March 6, 2006. The slogan, “Amnesty Aguilera, Youths Without Censorship. Ileana for all political prisoners from the Black Spring of Danger Hardy, wife of Juan Carlos Herrera 2003, Down with F.” appeared written in white Acosta. paint on the wall of Bayamo’s athletics school. The Havana, March 5, 2006. The Ladies in White, custodians of the facility notiﬁ ed the police of the the wives, mothers, sisters and relatives of political political vandalism, which was signed “G.M.T.”. prisoners, made their weekly pilgrimage to the The police harassed those within the school. Santa Rita Church at 5ta. Avenida y 26, Miramar. Source: Ahmed Rodríguez Albacia, independent Source: Laura Pollán, wife of the jailed independent journalist with Youth Without Censorship press journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. Berta Soler agency. Fernández, the wife of imprisoned opposition Cienfuegos, March 7, 2006. Bernardo Arévalo leader Angel Moya Acosta. Padrón, the director of the Línea Sur Press and

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 41 former political prisoner, sent an open letter to Federation of Rural Women (FLAMUR), the Pro- Fidel Castro Ruz blaming him for whatever happens Human Rights Party, an affi liate organization of to the life of the well-known prisoner of conscience the Andrei Sakharov Foundation, and the “Frank Jorge Luis García Pérez “Antúnez” and demanded País” 30th of November Democratic Party held that he be released. an activity with the wives and mothers of political Source: Bernardo Arévalo Padrón, Línea Sur Press. prisoners at Calle 40 #2906 e/ 29 y 33, San José Juan Carlos González Leiva, Cuban Foundation de las Lajas. Darelis Velásquez, (wife of Héctor for Human Rights. Raúl Valle Hernández) Yamilka Morejón Morfa Camagüey, March 7 - 23, 2006. Political (wife of Jose Ubaldo Izquierdo Hernández), Marta prisoner Jorge Luis García Pérez “Antúnez” declares Hernández (wife of Francisco Moure Saladrigas), a hunger strike at the Kilo 7 prison to protest the human rights activists Marina Barceló, Ada Pina, jail’s refusal to serve his meals in his cell and the Marielín de Armas, Tomasa González and Xiomara suspension of his telephone privileges after he Ruiz. made statements for the Barrio Adentro program Source: Marina Barceló, Pro-Human Rights Party, on Radio República. On March 15, Antúnez, whose an affi liate organization of the Andrei Sakharov health has greatly deteriorated, will mark 16 years Foundation. imprisoned for political motives. Villa Clara, March 8, 2006. Activists from the Source: Bertha Antúnez Pernet, Radio República. Nationalist Civic Movement in Santo Clara held an Havana, March 8, 2006. Seventeen members event to commemorate the Cuban women who have of the Liberal Party of Cuba National Board of fallen while fi ghting totalitarianism as well as others Directors participated in a meeting of the Habana who continue the struggle in Cuba and in exile. The Vieja delegation where they discussed matters of participants highlighted the lives of Zoila Almeida interest for the party members. They met at the (“the girl from Placetas”); Polita Grau Alsina, home of delegate Héctor Cedeño Negrin, Calle (“Pola”), Carmelina Casanova and Lila Rodríguez Revillagigedo #6. Gutiérrez, who all died in exile, as well as those who Source: Julia Cecilia Delgado and Reinaldo suffered in prison and continue the struggle, such Hernández Cardona, Liberal Party of Cuba. as Maritza Lugo Fernández. Havana, March 8, 2006. The Freedom Source: Idalberto González Gómez, Nationalist Movement participated in a mass held at the Santa Civic Movement. Idania Yánes Contreras, Marta Bárbara Parish for prisoners, especially Cuban Abreu Women’s Movement. political prisoners and prisoners of conscience, and Camagüey, March 8, 2006. From the Cerámica for those freedom seekers who have disappeared. Roja penitentiary, political prisoner Lázaro Source: Juan Francisco Humberto Guerra González Adán sends a message of congratulations Perugorría, Freedom Movement; Anaika Paneca to the women of Cuba in recognition of Román, “Frank País” 30th of November Democratic International Women’s Day in the name of the Party ; Ángel De Fana Serrano, Plantados Until National Independent Workers Confederation of Freedom and Democracy in Cuba. Cuba (CONIC). In the message, he salutes the brave Havana, March 8, 2006. The Ladies in White, patriots who proved to be “faithful followers of the wives of political prisoners and 2005 Sakharov Mariana Grajales” and he thanked them for their Prize Recipients, took advantage of International support and generosity. Women’s Day to once again demand the release of Source: Marilín Díaz Fernández, Lux Info Press, the 75 opposition activists arrested in March 2003, Cubanet. 15 of which have been given conditional releases for Camagüey, March 8, 2006. Activists from the health reasons. Oscar Espinosa Chepe, one of these Cuban Human Rights Foundation held a fast at the 15, called the Ladies in White “woman confronting home of the organization’s provincial president, the totalitarian Cyclops.” Eisy Marrero, located at Argentina #39, Municipio Meanwhile, Gisela Delgado, the wife of peaceful de Florida, to commemorate International Women’s dissident and member of the Group of 75 arrested Day. During the fast, they demanded an end to the in March 2003, Héctor Palacios, denounced the brutal repudiation rallies and the immediate release discrimination that Cuban women suffer as a of prisoners of conscience who are locked away in result of the country’s ideology – celebrations for inhumane and unhealthy conditions. the women who share the offi cial ideology and Source: Eisy Marrero, Cuban Human Rights repression for those who do not. Foundation, Radio República. Source: Agence France Press. Holguín, March 8, 2006. Eddy Silva Páez and Havana, March 8, 2006. The Latin American Elina Meriño Meriño sent an open letter from Banes

42 Inauguration in May 2006 of the Mahatma Gandhi Independent Library. Second from the left is Roberto Marrero de la Rosa, director, and his wife, Marlene, is on the far right. to reach out to national and international public Human Rights Movement, members of the Eastern opinion to denounce the discrimination that their Democratic Alliance, continued blowing their family has faced. Their eight-year-old daughter has whistles as a means of peaceful resistance. The suffered from retinopathies since doctors and was whistle takes place for one minute each evening at provoked by the doctor’s medical negligence during 6 p.m. her premature birth causing her to go blind. On Source: Guillermo Llanos Ricardo, secretary various occasions, Silva Páez and Meriño Meriño general, Eastern Democratic Alliance, Radio attempted to have her seen by doctors at the Orbitz República. International hospital plane, but public health Villa Clara, March 9, 2006. The Christian authorities did not allow it. The parents believe that Democratic Movement of Cuba, the Villa Clara this discrimination is because they belong to the Democracy Movement, the Martí Youth Coalition Seventh Day Adventist Church. Furthermore, they and the National Association of Rafters for Human contrast the attention their daughter has received Rights, Peace, Democracy and Freedom held a with that which is provided to Latin Americans from vigil attended by 14 dissidents. They prayed to God throughout the region participating in the so-called for the life of Guillermo Fariñas Hernández, who Operation Miracle. “I am not opposed to anyone continues his hunger strike to demand the right to receiving help,” one of the parents said, “but I am Internet access. Those gathered swore to continue opposed to the hypocrisy and falseness of wanting seeking this right, because Fariñas’ life was at risk. to show-off the so-called Operation Miracle to the Source: Roberto Carlos Pérez García, national world.” coordinator of the Christian Democratic Movement Source: Liannis Meriño Aguilera, independent of Cuba. Radio República. journalist, Youth Without Censorship press agency. Holguín, March 9, 2006. Duilián Ramírez Radio República. Ballester begins a hunger strike to demand better Holguín, March 8, 2006. The Cuban Liberal food, respect for his right to make telephone calls Movement, the Cuban Human Rights Foundation, to his loved ones and to have access to sunlight, as the National Movement of Civic Resistance “Pedro well as regular access to a urologist. The political Luis Boitel” (MNRC-PLB), and the Claridad prisoners health is precarious. He is only allowed PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 43 Three brothers in the civic opposition struggle: Néstor Rodríguez Lobaina, Juan Carlos González Leiva and Rolando Rodríguez Lobaina during a meeting in Havana. Photo taken in March 2006.

Activity held on March 13, 2006 in the house of independent journalist Ahmed Rodríguez Albacia. To the left are various activists from the Cuban Foundation of Human Rights in the capital. Third from the left, wearing a cap, is Eliécer Consuegra Rivas; in the center is Rodríguez Albacia wearing a sweater with a white line on the chest and Juan Carlos González Leiva is the one with dark glasses. To the right is a group of members from the Eastern Democratic Alliance. outside once a month and he receives specialized defender Miguel López Santos, imprisoned medical attention only when his symptoms warrant following his peaceful protest in front of the French it. His wife and lawyer, Giordana Varela Fundicheli, Embassy in Havana. said that this is the second time her husband has Source: Lux-Info Press, independent Cuban held a hunger strike since he was jailed in May 2005 information and press agency. for the alleged crime of social dangerousness. Havana, March 11, 2006. Anti-government Source: Liannis Meriño Aguilera, Youths Without graﬁ tti appeared overnight along two blocks of Calle Censorship. Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, Eastern San Francisco in Havana’s Lawton neighborhood, Democratic Alliance. with phrases such as “Down with Fidel” and “Fidel is Holguín, March 9, 2006. Political prisoners a dictator”. Around 20 police ofﬁ cers arrived on the Randy Cabrera Mayor and Nelson Vázquez Lima scene to take photographs and make a show of force begin a hunger strike in the cells at the Holguín in the place. They improvised a command center in Provincial Prison to demand transfers to jails in the Pestalozzi elementary school. The government their home provinces. Nelson is from the province sent painters to quickly cover the subversive slogans of Cienfuegos while Randy is from the capital. or hide them behind pro-government banners. Source: Luis Cabrera Ballester in a letter to José The signs appeared one day after Fidel Castro staged Ramón Herrera Hernández, Eastern Democratic a large forced protest in front the United States Alliance. Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, Eastern Interests Section in Cuba to protest that during a Democratic Alliance, Radio República. baseball game between the teams of Puerto Rico Camagüey, March 10, 2006. Prisoner of and Cuba, Cuban-Americans living in Puerto Rico conscience René Montes de Oca sent an urgent plea held up a banner reading “Down with Fidel”. for help from his cell at Cerámica Roja prison to Source: Jaime Leigonier, Cubanet. Luis Cino. the international community, the United Nations, Havana, March 11, 2006. Members of the Pope Benedict XVI and the United Nations Special Liberal Party of Cuba’s Holguín delegation visited Rapporteur for Cuba in the United Nations calling for the party’s National Board of Directors to exchange an “end to the government-sanctioned kidnapping ideas and hand in working documents. The main and arbitrariness toward the peaceful human rights project was the constitution of the Liberal Youth activists in Cuba.” organization. They met at the home of Julia Cecilia His message refers explicitly to human rights Delgado, 20 de mayo #531 Apt. B 14, e/ Marta Abreu

44 y Línea, Cerro. making history in confronting this dictatorship, this Source: Julia Cecilia Delgado and Reinaldo tyranny, and we are going to pay tribute to these Hernández Cardona, Liberal Party of Cuba. martyrs of history, these martyrs of the homeland’s Havana, March 12, 2006. The Ladies in White, redemption,” they said in a statement to Radio the wives, mothers, sisters and relatives of political República, prisoners, made their weekly pilgrimage to the Source: Néstor Rodríguez Lobaina, Cuban Youth Santa Rita Church at 5ta. Avenida y 26, Miramar. for Democracy Movement. Radio República. Source: Laura Pollán, wife of jailed independent Villa Clara, March 13, 2006. Activists from the journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. Berta Soler Nationalist Civic Movement of Santa Clara held Fernández, wife of imprisoned opposition leader an event to commemorate the 1957 assault on the Angel Moya Acosta. presidential palace by youths from the University Villa Clara, March 12, 2006. Close to 15 peaceful Student Directorate and in homage to those killed dissidents met at the Church of the Carmen in Santa on that day. The participants observed a moment Clara to attend mass and show their solidarity with of silence and prayed to honor the memory of these political prisoners and the independent journalist Cuban martyrs. Guillermo Fariñas Hernández, whose health has Source: Idalberto González Gómez, Nationalist vastly deteriorated as a result of his hunger strike Civic Movement. to demand free access to the Internet. Among those Camagüey, March 13, 2006. Political prisoners activists who gathered were Noelia Pedraza Jiménez Raidel Carmenate and Ángel Tejeda Rodríguez who recently concluded a hunger strike to protest joined the hunger strike of Jorge Luis García Pérez the repudiation rallies and beatings committed by “Antúnez”, which he began on March 7, at the Kilo 7 the Cuban Communist Party through State Security. prison to protest the jail’s refusal to serve his meals Participants in the gathering reaffi rmed their will in his cell and the suspension of his telephone to keep fi ghting for democracy and freedom for all privileges after he made declarations for the Barrio political prisoners. Adentro program on Radio República. Source: Roberto Carlos Pérez García, national Source: Bertha Antúnez, Radio República. coordinator of the Christian Democratic Movement Ciego de Ávila, March 14, 2006. The Cuban of Cuba. Radio República. Human Rights Foundation publicly declared their Camagüey, March 12, 2006. The Ladies in White, support for the political prisoners holding a hunger the wives, mothers, sisters and family members strike at the Kilo 7 and Kilo 8 prisons in Camagüey of political prisoners from Camagüey, attended and urged the Cuban government to cede to their Sunday mass at the Santa Ana Church, located at demands. The foundation blamed the Castro General Gómez #400 esquina a Bembeta y Plaza de regime for whatever happens to Jorge Luís García Santa Ana. The group prayed for the release of all Pérez “Antúnez” and Juan Carlos Herrera Acosta. political prisoners and prisoners of conscience. “Our brothers should know that we are with them, Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political supporting them from the outside,” the statement prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. said. “We send a message of faith and hope for Havana, March 13, 2006. Six members of the change. Jesus Christ is with us and, in the eyes of the Cuban Youth for Democracy Movement (MCJD) Almighty God, we will succeed.” The statement was met in an unprecedented symbolic act, marching to signed by Juan Carlos González Leiva, the president the University of Havana to lay a wreath of white of the Cuban Human Rights Foundation. roses in memory of the leader of the Revolutionary Source: Liannis Meriño Aguilera, independent Student Directorate, José Antonio Echeverría, journalist, Youth Without Censorship press agency. and others killed in the assault on the Presidential Radio República. Palace in 1957. Camagüey, March 14, 2006. Roger Cardoso Source: Alexei Escudero, Cuban Youth for Nieves, a political prisoner held in the Kilo 8 prison Democracy Movement. Directorio Democrático in Camagüey, began a hunger strike to protest the Cubano. treatment that the prisoners at that facility face and Matanzas, March 13, 2006. Members of to demand the right of prisoners to call their loved the Cuban Youth for Democracy Movement ones on the telephone. commemorated the death of student leader José Source: Liannis Meriño Aguilera, Youths Without Antonio Echeverría by visiting his tomb in Cárdenas Censorship. and laying a fl oral wreath thereupon. “Inspired by Camagüey, March 14, 2006. Political prisoner the nonviolent techniques of struggle of Martin Jorge Luis García Pérez “Antúnez”, in a hunger Luther King and Mahatma Gandhi, we are also strike at the Kilo 7 prison, called on the Cuban people PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 45 to not participate in the government’s attempts to his hunger strike and demanded that the Castro repress the dissidents who defend their rights. government respond to the striker’s petitions. The Source: Bertha Antúnez Pernet, Radio República. event took place at the Gastón Baquero Independent Santiago de Cuba, March 14, 2006. Two Library, located at Calle Carlos Manuel de Céspedes slogans reading “Down with Fidel, Down with the #2007, Banes. dictatorship” and “Freedom for the 75” appear in Source: Liannis Meriño Aguilera, Youths Without the city of Palma Soriano. Censorship. Source: Enrique Martínez Machado, human rights Villa Clara, March 16, 2006. Alejandro García activist. Ahmed Rodríguez Albacia, Youths without Sardiñas, a member of the National Council for Censorship. Human Rights in Cuba from Placetas, expressed Havana, March 15, 2006. The Freedom his concern for the health of Guillermo Fariñas Movement participated in a mass held at the Santa Hernández, the independent journalist and member Bárbara Parish for prisoners, especially Cuban of the Marta Abreu Social Studies Forum in Santa political prisoners and prisoners of conscience, and Clara who has spent more than 40 days on a hunger for those freedom seekers who have disappeared. strike in the new Arnaldo Milián Castro hospital in Source: Juan Francisco Humberto Guerra Placetas. “We, the opposition activists of the central Perugorría, Freedom Movement. region from Placetas raise our voices in solidarity Matanzas, March 15, 2006. Members of the with Guillermo’s mother, Alicia Hernández, and Peace, Love and Freedom Party participated in hope that our voices are heard so that her son’s life a mass at the San José de Colón Parish in the can be saved. Colón municipality. They prayed for the release Source: Alejandro García Sardiñas, National of hundreds of political prisoners and, especially, Council for Civil Rights in Cuba, Radio República. for the release of prisoner of conscience Diosdado Sancti Spíritus, March 16, 2006. Members González Marrero. They also prayed for God to of the National Association of Rafters for Human intercede for the life of Guillermo Fariñas, who Rights, Peace, Democracy and Freedom organized a continues in a hunger strike. vigil to pay homage to the prisoners from the Group Source: Alejandrina García de la Riva, Lady in of 75, at Maceo #59, Guayos, Sancti Spiritus. White and wife of Diosdado González Marrero. Source: Margarito Broche Espinosa, National Villa Clara, March 15, 2006. Magaly Broche de Association of Rafters for Peace, Human Rights, la Cruz, the wife of prisoner of conscience Librado Democracy and Freedom. Linares García, sent a letter to different public Isla de Pinos, March 17 - 20, 2006. Activists in fi gures and to the international community. Due Isla de Pinos commemorated the third anniversary to the inhuman conditions in the prison, Librado of the wave of repression that sent 75 dissidents suffered sicknesses that can lead to cancer or the to prison in the spring of 2003. The Julio Tang complete loss of vision in his left eye and the partial Texier Civic Cultural Project and the Isla de Pinos loss in his right eye. Magaly begged the recipients of Foundation for Human Rights and Territorial her letter to intercede with the Cuban government Development held a chain of vigils and fasts. The for her husband’s freedom. political police on the island mobilized the Rapid Source: Magaly Broche de la Cruz, Cuban Refl ection Response Brigades in the streets of Nueva Gerona, Movement, Radio República. the provincial capital, in an attempt to stop the Holguín, March 15, 2006. Fourteen activists activity but they failed to impede the activists. belonging to different human rights organizations, Source: Carlos Serpa Maceira, independent members of the Eastern Democratic Alliance, held journalist, Lux Info Press. a vigil to pray for the immediate and unconditional Havana, March 17, 2006. The Youth Without release of all political prisoners held in Cuban jails. Censorship press agency met at the home of They prayed for the health of political prisoners independent journalist Ahmed Rodríguez Albacia. on hunger strikes, Juan Carlos Herrera Acosta Eliécer Consuegra Rivas and José Ramón Herrera and Jorge Cardoso Nieves in the Kilo 8 prison in Hernández of the Eastern Democratic Alliance, Camagüey, Randy Cabrera Mayor, in the Holguín Néstor Rodríguez Lobaina and Rolando Rodríguez provincial prison, and Jorge Luís García Pérez Lobaina of the Cuban Youth for Democracy Antúnez in Kilo 7. The activists held the Cuban Movement, Ahmed Rodríguez Albacia, his mother, government accountable for whatever happens Alejandro Albacia Sánchez, Juan Carlos González to these honorable patriots. The Youth Without Leiva, Luis Esteban Espinosa and José Fernández Censorship press agency prayed for the health Cisneros all participated in the meeting to coordinate of Guillermo Fariñas Hernández, who continues the efforts of the different organizations working

46 throughout the country. with Guillermo Fariñas Hernández, who is holding Rolando Rodríguez Lobaina noted that many brave a hunger strike. youths between 19 and 21 years of age participate Source: Liannis Meriño Aguilera, Youths Without energetically in the different activities of the Censorship. dissident movement. Holguín, March 17 - 22, 2006. Members of the Néstor Rodriguez Lobaina, meanwhile, stressed Perucho Figueredo Mini-Library, operated by the that “the unity of all the opposition groups from political prisoners in the Holguín Provincial Prison, throughout the Cuban archipelago is extremely began a chain of fasts to protest human rights important,” as well as “working above all with young violations in Cuba. Luis Cabrera Ballester, Luis people, who deﬁ nitely represent the future of Cuba Mariano Delis Utria, Julio Inzua Góngora, Frank and changes in Cuba.” Pérez Calixto, Adolfo García García and Alfredo Ahmed Rodríguez Albacia spoke positively of “the Domínguez Batista participated in the fasts. Each working agreement reached today by the Cuban member spent one day protesting the human rights Human Rights Foundation, Youths for Democracy violations that take place daily and reading articles and the Eastern Democratic Alliance. of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, Rolando and president of the mini-library, Alfredo Domínguez Néstor Rodríguez Lobaina, and Ahmed Rodríguez Batista, sent a summary of these activities to the Albacia. Radio República. authorities. Villa Clara, March 17, 2006. Political prisoner Source: Melba Santana Arís, wife of political Léster González Pentón began a hunger strike at the prisoner Alfredo Domínguez Batista. Celestino Hernández Rubau Hospital in Santa Clara. Pinar del Río, March 18, 2006. Members González Pentón demanded that State Security of opposition organizations in Pinar del Río provide a written guarantee that it would stop what commemorated the third anniversary of the 2003 he described as repressive acts against his wife, wave of repression at the home of Minerva Pérez, Yanet Ocaña, and mother-in-law, Miriam Castro. which serves as the headquarters of the Latin Ocaña has said that an agent named Alexander Solís American Federation of Rural Women. Pérez, the has visited her on numerous occasions to intimidate president of this group, gave a speech and issued her into ceasing her participation with the Ladies in a written statement denouncing the imprisonment White, a group of women advocating for the release of political dissidents, opposition activists and of the Group of 75 political prisoners. independent journalists by the menacing Cuban González Pentón, at 29 the youngest of the Group of political police force. “Today we commemorate 75, is vice president of the Alpha 3 Pro-Democracy the third anniversary of the wave of repression, Movement. He was condemned to 20 years in prison but each day should be spent commemorating and during the 2003 wave of repression, also known as demanding the release of those who are still in jail,” the Black Spring of Cuba. she said. Source: Roberto Santana Rodríguez, Cubanet. Abigail Ortega, representing independent librarians, Camagüey, March 17, 2006. The sister and said that “every day that our brothers remain in wife of political prisoner Jorge Luis García Pérez prison should be a day for us to work and struggle Antúnez, Bertha Antúnez and Iris Pérez Aguilera, for the good of our nation and for our rights as respectively, spent the day standing in front of the human beings.” entrance to the Kilo 7 penitentiary in an attempt to Carlos M. Collazo of the Peoples’ Party, denounced learn of Jorge Luis’ health, which has deteriorated to the world that threats against those dissidents rapidly after a 10-day hunger strike. who remain free continue but stressed that “we Source: Berta Antúnez Pernet, president of the have to show the world how we have managed up National Movement of Civic Resistance “Pedro to this point, that there is still opposition in Cuba Luis Boitel”. and that it will continue to exist as long as we have Holguín, March 17 - 19, 2006. Around 20 a dictatorship. members of the Human Rights Foundation, Blanca Rivera, the deputy director of the Western the Eastern Democratic Alliance and the Youth Cultural Project, said that “this activity should also Without Censorship press agency commemorated serve to demonstrate to the family members of our the Black Spring of Cuba with different activities in prisoners that they are not alone. We give them the province including a daily fast, group prayers our unconditional support and we swear that we and the repudiation of continued imprisonment of will continue the work of their sons, husbands and political prisoners. The participants expressed their brothers.” solidarity with prisoners of conscience, particularly Source: Rafael Ferro Salas, Abdala Press.

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 47 Cubanet. staged a fast at the home of Fina Díaz Castillo, one Pinar del Río, March 18, 2006. The provincial of the Ladies in White. About 15 people participated delegation of the National Independent Workers in the event, which displayed signs that say, “Free Confederation of Cuba (CONIC) in Pinar del Río and the 75 political prisoners and all prisoners unjustly the National Democratic Party “Carlos Manuel de jailed in Cuban prisons.” Upon exiting the activity, Céspedes” met in their headquarters at Calle Celso the activists were arrested by the political police Maragoto #143 A e/ Coronel Pozo y Avellaneda to and held for four hours in Havana’s Capri police commemorate the third anniversary of the Black station. Spring of 2003, when 75 of their brothers were con- Source: Raiza Martínez, “Frank País” 30th of demned to more than 25 years in prison for working November Democratic Party , Havana. for human rights and democratic change in Cuba. Havana, March 18, 2006. Members of the They prayed for the release of the political prison- Liberal Party of Cuba held a fast in solidarity with ers. political prisoners. Fourteen activists participated in Source: José Félix Rodríguez Rodríguez, CONIC; the event, held at the home of Reinaldo Hernández Ramón Suarez Diaz, “Frank País” 30th of Cardona, at Falgueras 413, e/ Lombillo y Pinera, El November Democratic Party ; José A. Ballart Cerro. Ochoa, National Movement of the Free People of Source: Julia Cecilia Delgado and Reinaldo Cuba Josué País García Hernández Cardona, Liberal Party of Cuba. Pinar del Río, March 18, 2006. A prayer chain Havana, March 18, 2006. Thirteen members of was started at the home of “Frank País” 30th of the Liberal Party of Cuba held a fast in solidarity November Democratic Party provincial delegate with political prisoners at the home of Héctor Julio Ramón Suárez Díaz to ask for the release of all of Cedeño, located at Revillagigedo #6, Habana Vieja. Cuba’s political prisoners. They chose this day as it Source: Julia Cecilia Delgado and Reinaldo was the date of the wave of repression of the Cuba’s Hernández Cardona, Liberal Party of Cuba. Black Spring of 2003. Thirty activists from differ- Havana, March 18, 2006. Thirteen members of ent organizations participated in the event, which the Liberal Party of Cuba held a fast in solidarity took place at Avenida Borrego, edifi cio 32, Apto. 2, with political prisoners at the home of Leonel Reparto Hermanos Cruz, Pinar del Río. Sánchez, located at Calle 10, Reparto Capri, 10 de Source: Ramón Suárez Díaz, “Frank País” 30th of octubre. November Democratic Party . Source: Julia Cecilia Delgado and Reinaldo Isla de Pinos, March 18, 2006. The Spanish Hernández Cardona, Liberal Party of Cuba. edition of Steps to Freedom 2004 began circulation Havana, March 18, 2006. The Ladies in White in this municipality. The report became available prayed rosaries at 6 a.m., noon and 6 p.m. for their at the headquarters of the Julio Tang Texier husbands’ release. They prayed “that the government Cultural Civic Project on the third anniversary of of Cuba would be fl exible, that it will react and the wave of repression, during which 75 activists realize that these men are being held unjustly, that and independent journalists were rounded up and our Lord Jesus Christ touches the heart of that man sent to jail. The book highlights the vigils and the so that our prisoners are released.” The 30 women work of the Ladies in White, who earned the 2005 met in the home of Laura Pollán, Neptuno 963 e/ Sahkarov Prize, celebrates free thought and the work Aramburu y Hospital. of Cuba’s nonviolent opposition movement during Source: Alejandrina García de la Riva, wife of 2005. After just over two months, the report was political prisoner Diosdado González Marrero. discovered by its protagonists on the island. “The Havana, March 18, 2006. The Ladies in White report is stimulating and makes evident the high held a fast to commemorate the third anniversary of price that the democratic movement in Cuba has the arrest of their family members during a political been willing to pay in its efforts to obtain freedom roundup that landed 75 opposition leaders in jail. and democracy in our nation,” said Noel de la Peña Dressed all in white, they began their fast early in Rivera, the director of the 28 de Enero Independent the morning, receiving visits from reporters in a Library. room where a black mourning doll hang alongside a Source: Carlos Serpa Maceira, independent fl ag bearing the names of the 75 arrested dissidents journalist with Lux InfoPress, director of the Cuba- with the Cuban fl ag in the background. Miami Information Bridge Independent Press Some of the women fasting reported that they had Bureau. Radio República. been intimidated by State Security agents. Others Havana, March 18, 2006. Members of the complained to journalists about their husbands’ “Frank País” 30th of November Democratic Party conditions.

48 Source: Associated Press. Laura Pollán, wife of Freedom Party, Matanzas; Alejandrina García jailed independent journalist Héctor Maseda de la Riva, wife of political prisoner Diosdado Gutiérrez. Alejandrina García de la Riva, wife of González Marrero. political prisoner Diosdado González Marrero. Matanzas, March 18, 2006. Members of the Havana, March 18, 2006. The Ladies in Peace, Love and Freedom Party held a vigil to White marched through main Havana streets to commemorate the third anniversary of the Black commemorate the day that they had proclaimed the Spring of 2003 wave of repression at the home “Day of the Cuban political prisoner and prisoner of of Jorge Luís Álvarez, at Rafael Aguila e/ Clotilde conscience”, which marked the third anniversary of Garcia y Avellaneda, Colón. Ten people, including the Black Spring of Cuba. party members and other supporters, participated Dressed in all white, with a small ribbon emblazoned in the vigil. with the word “amnesty” pinned to their clothes, Source: Jorge Luís Álvarez García, Peace, Love and the thirty women marched approximately two Freedom Party, Matanzas; Alejandrina García kilometers, including along the busy Calle 23, and de la Riva, wife of political prisoner Diosdado handed out pink gladioluses and white ribbons González Marrero. to passers-by, asking them to pray for their Matanzas, March 18, 2006. Six members of the unjustly condemned husbands. Everyone who was Peace, Love and Freedom Party held a vigil for the approached accepted the ﬂ ower and the ribbons. release of Cuban political prisoners at the Gustavo Some praised the women’s courage, while others Arcos Bergnes Library, which is in the home of vowed to pray for their husbands. Eufemio Álvarez la Fe, Calle 30 e/ 25 y 33 #2524, “We declare this the Day of the Cuban Prisoner Torriente, Jagüey Grande. of Conscience because the Black Spring began on Source: Jorge Luís Álvarez García, Peace, Love and March 18, 2003,” said Laura Pollán, whose husband, Freedom Party, Matanzas; Alejandrina García Héctor Maseda, the president of the Liberal de la Riva, wife of political prisoner Diosdado Democratic Party of Cuba and an independent González Marrero. journalist, is serving an unjust 20-year sentence for Villa Clara, March 18, 2006. Members of the crimes of political opinion. Maceo Movement for Dignity joined the Marta Source: Laura Pollán, wife of jailed independent Abreu Women’s Movement in commemorating the journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. Alejandrina third anniversary of the Black Spring of Cuba with García de la Riva, wife of political prisoner an activity at the home of Idania Yanes Contreras, Diosdado González Marrero. Prolongation of Marta Abreu #93 C, e/B y C, Reparto Havana, March 18, 2006. The Cuban Liberal Virginia, Santa Clara. Movement issued a declaration to mark the third Source: Idania Yánes Contreras, Marta Abreu anniversary of the tragic Black Spring. The statement Women’s Movement. expressed the group’s support for Guillermo Villa Clara, March 18, 2006. Members of the Fariñas, on a hunger strike, and blamed the opposition in Santa Clara commemorated the Cuban government, the Communist Party and the third anniversary of the 2003 crackdown at the heads of the Ministry of the Interior for the unjust home of Liberal Party of Cuba delegate Bernardo incarceration of those detained in the Black Spring Luis Ascanio Camargo. Representatives of many of 2003. The movement also held the government different opposition groups attended the meeting and ETECSA, the telephone company, for violating to watch the documentary, “The Cuban Spring”. the universal law of freedom of information and for Source: Idania Yanes Contreras, Marta Abreu the possibility of an undesired development in the Women’s Movement and Yuniesky García López, case of Guillermo Fariñas Hernández. Liberal Party of Cuba. Matanzas, March 18, 2006. Members of the Villa Clara, March 18, 2006. The National Peace, Love and Freedom Party held a vigil to Association of Rafters for Human Rights, Peace, commemorate the third anniversary of the Black Democracy and Freedom organized a chain of fasts Spring of 2003 wave of repression at the home of in the city of Caibarién featuring the participation Andrés Govea Suárez, at Calle Libertad 41 e/ 3 y of dozens of activists in 35 residences in this city. San Antonio, Guareira. The following were present The fast marked the third anniversary of the unjust at the vigil: Rolando Wang, Julio Osmán Diaz, imprisonment of the Group of 75, who were arrested Valentín Wang Díaz, Dayrelis González García, and sentenced to prison in the spring of 2003. During Orlando Wang Cepero, Noel Aguilar Verde, Iberta the fast, the activists asked the Cuban government to Wang and Yabelkis Govea Piedra. quickly release all political prisoners in poor health, Source: Jorge Luís Álvarez García, Peace, Love and as well as the remainder of the group of 75 and

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 49 other prisoners of conscience. They also asked for a Source: Margarito Broche Espinosa, National general amnesty for all political prisoners and called Association of Rafters for Peace, Human Rights, on the governments and nations of the world as well Democracy and Freedom. as humanitarian and human rights organizations Villa Clara, March 18, 2006. The Cuban to take an interest in these petitions. The activists Refl ection Movement commemorated another held the fast in Caibarién from 6 a.m. to 12 p.m. 18th of March with a video-debate at its Camajuaní The following participated in the event: Margarito headquarters following the screening of an Broche Espinosa, María de la Caridad Noa González, alternative documentary produced by the Ford and Julián Jesús Noa González, at Calle 16 #2518 Foundation that analyzes the Cuban situation. The e/ 27 y 27; Agustín López Ares, Misleydis Leiva meeting, held at the home of Juan Manuel Sarduy García, Jikli López Ares, Nelio López Ares, María Sagrado, was watched and interrupted by members Nela Álvarez Ares and Orlando Luderio Álvarez at of the Cuban Revolution Combatants Association Avenida 39 #1421 e/ 14 y 13; Lázaro González Portal from that city who took part in a rally organized by Ransolas and Aidé González Córdova at Avenida State Security Captain Leonil Gonzalo de la Rúa. 21 #802 e/ 8 y 10; Ángel Paz Carrillo at Avenida Source: Antonio Suárez Fonticiella, spokesman for 25 #1805; Juan José Comas Sabina at Avenida 23 the Cuban Refl ection Movement. Radio República. #12, e/ 12 y 14; Hugo Francisco Martínez López, Sancti Spíritus, March 18, 2006. The National Olga Lidia Carrillo Rodríguez and Manuel Herrada Association of Rafters for Human Rights, Peace, Erquiaga at Avenida 19 #1008, e/ 10 y 12; Yariza Democracy and Freedom organized a chain of fasts Carrillo Santana and Jenni Castellón Rojas at in various municipalities of Sancti Spíritus featuring Calle 16 #3710, e/ 37 y 39; Carlos Michel Morales the participation of dozens of activists in 26 fasts. Rodríguez at Calle 18 #2502, e/25 y 27; Rolando The fast marked the third anniversary of the unjust Astor Cabello Garmán at Avenida 5 #1013, e/ 10 y imprisonment of the Group of 75, who were arrested 12; Manuel Santana Padrón at Calle 24 #3511,e/ 35 and sentenced to prison in the spring of 2003. In y 36; Ramón Norberto Martín Ruíz at Avenida 15 coordination with members of the organization #1417 e/14 y 16; Ariel Graman Martín and Leticia in Caibarién, Villa Clara, the activists asked the Rodríguez Caraballo at Avenida 7 #206, 4, e/ 2 y 4; Cuban government to quickly release all political Pedro Carvajal Miranda at Avenida 33 #1813 e/18 prisoners in poor health, as well as the remainder of y 20; Javier Delgado Torna at Avenida 41, e/ 14 y the group of 75 and other prisoners of conscience. 16, Bloque 2, apto. C6; Ramón Nilo Noa González at They also asked for a general amnesty for all Avenida 39, e/ 14 y 16; Armando Moreno Moreno political prisoners. They called on the governments at Avenida 13 #1815, e/ 18 y 20; Raúl Pérez Gavilán and nations of the world as well as humanitarian at Avenida 31 (interior) e/ 10 y 12; Margarita Cunill and human rights organizations to take an interest Díaz and Ivon Lisette Bienes Cunill at Calle 18 al in these petitions. Various members of the Rafters fi nal #44; Duvier Herrera Landín at Avenida 39, e/ Association in Sancti Spíritus participated from 14 y 16; Onis Díaz Carrera at Avenida 39, e/ 14 y 6 a.m. to noon. Those participating at homes in 16; Abdel Cristóbal Vega at Calle 16 #2113, e/ 21 y Cabaiguán were: José Ramón Borges Serrano and 23; Yandry Fernández Jiménez at Calle 14 #2504, Bárbara Viera Rodríguez at Jesús Menéndez #4; e/ 25 y 27; Miriam Martín Hernández at Avenida Ernesto González Pérez at Gran Canaria #11; Osmani 23 #1024, e/ 10 y 12; Javier Angulo Vita at Avenida López Almeida at República #31; Joel Díaz Martínez 35 #1219, e/ 12 y 14; Yosvani Martínez González at at Alfredo Ferrer #3; Erasmo Gómez Hernández Calle 22 #101, e/ 1 y 3; Vladimir Hernández Muñoz at Raúl Cabrera #150; Yuldrey Pérez Toledo at at Calle 22 #105, e/ 1 y 3; Antonio González Soliño Sta. Del Norte #6; Enrique Hernández Peralta at and Carlos Morales Soliño at Avenida 21 #1603, e/ Manuel Brito #173; María Cabrera Carrasco at Zona 16 y 18; María Antonia Noa González at Calle 16 de Desarrollo 3 Palmas; Carlos Pérez Madrigal at #2515, e/ 27 y 29; Yosvel Carballo Morera at Reparto Cuba #68; Orelvis Rodríguez García at 4ta. Inter Vantroy; Idalia Jiménez García and Alberto Galves Media #89. In Guayos: José Arcia Piedra at Luz Aguiar at Calle 14 #2504, e/ 25 y 27; Atilano Rubio Caballero s/n; Ramón Quintana Noa and Emeteria Rodríguez and Milagro Perdomo Parrado at Calle Caraballo Corteza at Batey La Eperanza; Meisis 12, e/ 33 y 35; Fernando Cremades Hernández and Espinosa Rodríguez, Zoila Hernández Espinosa Odalis Carrillo Noa at Calle 18, e/ 33 y 35; Jandier and Sailí Camacho Espinosa at Céspedes 1, apto 3; Osvaldo Vicente Bienes at Calle 18 al fi nal #44; Omar Pérez Mesa at Juan A.Sánchez #100; Frank Esnaider Torna Arocha at Avenida 31, (interior) Yanes Santos and Meibi Hernández Mergarejo e/10 y 12; Arturo Isaac Díaz Rojas at Calle 16 #1122. at Maceo #59; Omar Cabrera Rodríguez at Gallo e/11 y 13. Palmas Final s/n; Idelso Ferrer Ramos at Calle D

50 Members of the Cuban Foundation of Human Rights and of the Eastern Democratic Alliance commemorate March 18, 2006, the third anniversary of the Black Spring in Cuba. The opposition activists met at the Gastón Baquero Independent Library, in Banes, Holguín. s/n, e/ A y Campos; Leonardo López Martín at Juan of the Soviet Union’s Law 70, which was exploited A. Sánchez #105; Arturo Enrique Poján García at by that government to condemn millions of people. Céspedes #155; Eulalia García Nápoles at General They reiterated that neither prison nor torture nor Carrillo #10. In Sancti Spiritus: Aida Paula death could make them give up their struggle. Zayas Muela at Carlos Roloff #126; Agustín Gómez Source: Rene Montes de Oca Martija, Secretary Hernández at Edifi cio 8, apto. 20, Olivos 3; Aida General of the Pro-Human Rights Party, an affi liate Paula Zayas Muela at Carlos Roloff #126; Agustín organization of the Andrei Sakharov Foundation. Gómez Hernández at Edifi cio 8, apto. 20, Olivos Radio República. 3. Elsewhere: José Rivero Monteagudo and José Camagüey, March 18, 2006. Fifteen activists Cardoso Turiño at Las Tosas; Tomás García Gil and from the Commission for Attention to Political Bárbara Alfonso Zerguera at Camino de las Cañas. Prisoners and their Families (CAPPCF) spent Source: Margarito Broche Espinosa, National the day fasting in Camagüey to remember the Association of Rafters for Peace, Human Rights, third anniversary of the repressive wave of 2003. Democracy and Freedom. During the event, they demanded the release of Camagüey, March 18, 2006. Around 7 people, all political prisoners, denounced the precarious including Ladies in White, family members of health situation of Guillermo Fariñas Hernández, political prisoners and activists, gathered at the who had spent more than 50 days in a hunger strike home of Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, the wife of and then, through the words of CAPPCF President political prisoner Alfredo Pulido López, to say the Froilán Osmany Rodríguez, declared that despite rosary and pray for all of the political prisoners and the repressive climate they face in Cuba, the group prisoners of conscience in Cuba. will continue its activities. Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political Source: Shelyn Rojas, Cubanet. prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. Holguín, March 18, 2006. Activists from the Camagüey, March 18, 2006. The political Cuban Human Rights Foundation and the Eastern prisoners held at the Cerámica Roja prison Democratic Alliance held an activity calling for commemorated the third anniversary of the Cuban the unconditional release of the 75 independent Black Spring by explaining that Law 88, better journalists and activists unjustly jailed since March known as the Gag Law, was the legal instrument 2003. The event, featuring lively literary debate, was employed to condemn the 75 defenders of freedom held at the Gastón Baquero independent library, and human rights. He stressed that this law is a copy located at Calle Carlos Manuel de Céspedes #2007 PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 51 e/ Avenida de Cárdenas y General Marrero, Banes. Norberto Díaz Peña were among those present. Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, Eastern Source: Ana Belkis Ferrer García, sister of political Democratic Alliance. Marta Díaz Rondón, Lucia prisoners José Daniel and Luis Enrique Ferrer Iñiguez Women’s Movement, Eastern Democratic García, and a member of the Christian Liberation Alliance, Director of the Gastón Baquero Movement. Independent Library; Dayamis Romero Ortiz, Santiago de Cuba, March 18, 2006. More human rights activist. than 45 people gathered to pray a rosary at the Holguín, March 18, 2006. Activists from the Palma Soriano Church to commemorate the third National Movement of Civic Resistance “Pedro Luis anniversary of the imprisonment of 75 peaceful Boitel” (MNRC-PLB), the Orthodox Party, and other dissidents. The rosary was said from 9:00 until 9:45 member groups of the Eastern Democratic Alliance a.m. in the parish, located at Ave. Martí esquina commemorated the third anniversary of the Black Paquito Borrero, Palma Soriano. Among those in Spring of Cuba. The series of events included a attendance were family members and friends of visit to the home of Próspero Gaínza, one of the 75 those arrested from this city, who were forced to condemned activists. The group joined the political tolerate harassment from the political police, who prisoner’s wife, María Esther Blanco Aguirre, in installed loudspeakers across from the temple and prayer and to demand the release of all political played Silvio Rodríguez at maximum volume, set up prisoners. Refl ecting on the impact of the wave of a bandstand from the boxing academy and created repression and the imprisonment of the Group of 75, an environment of great hostility. Prior to the the activists concluded that the repressive measures prayer service, Graciela González contacted Father failed to achieve their goal; in the end, they only Francisco Sanabria, Priest of Palma Soriano, to served to stimulate the dissident movement. Blanca notify him that a counterrevolutionary event would Aguirre denounced the harassment and malice take place at the church. The priest did not object. that her husband suffers in prison as well as the Source: Israel Folgar Acosta, Cuban Human Rights fact that the prisoners are being held far from their Foundation. Ahmed Rodríguez Albacia, Youth residences, a heinous measure intended to make it without Censorship. Radio República. Virgilio harder for family members to visit the prisoners. Delat la O, Cubanet. Source: Juan Carlos Garcell, independent journalist Pinar del Río, March 19, 2006. The prayer with the Eastern Free Press Agency and public chain at the home of “Frank País” 30th of November relationships manager for the Eastern Democratic Democratic Party provincial delegate Ramón Suárez Alliance. Radio República. Díaz to ask for the release of all of Cuba’s political Granma, March 18, 2006. Peaceful opposition prisoners was completed. They chose this day as it activists from the Youths of Bayamo Plantados Until was the date of the wave of repression of the Cuba’s Freedom and Democracy in Cuba held a vigil calling Black Spring of 2003. Thirty activists from different for release to Cuban political prisoners at Raúl organizations participated in the event, which took Gómez 286, Reparto La Unión, Bayamo. Following place at Avenida Borrego, edifi cio 32, Apto. 2, the vigil, the group took to the streets to distribute Reparto Hermanos Cruz, Pinar del Río. Declaration on Human Rights to the Bayamo public Source: Ramón Suarez Diaz, “Frank País” 30th of and condemn the jailing of 75 innocent souls. Alexis November Democratic Party and José A. Ballart Ramírez Rodríguez, Félix Rivero Cordoví, Juangel Ochoa, “Josué País” Movement. Montoya Avilés, Antonio Santí Soto, Francisco Havana, March 19, 2006. The Ladies in White, Juan Zayas Benítez, Otniel Díaz Sánchez, Benedita the wives and family members of Cuban political Sánchez and Lidia Pita Cedeño took part in the prisoners, met to pray for the release of their loved activity. ones and to call on international fi gures such as Source: Gabriel Díaz Sánchez, president of Nelson Mandela and King Juan Carlos of Spain to Youth of Bayamo Planted Towards Freedom and visit the prisoners when they travel to the island. Democracy in Cuba. Radio República. The petition is part of a document made public by Santiago de Cuba, March 18, 2006. A group of the group titled 2005 Sahkarov Prize as part of its activists gathered at the home of Ana Belkis Ferrer commemoration of the anniversary of the period García, located at Calle 7 Final #318, Loma Blanca, they call the Black Spring. Palmarito de Cauto, to pray the rosary on the third In the text, the women asked for “immediate and anniversary of the unjust arrest and imprisonment unconditional liberty” for 60 of the 75 dissidents of 75 peaceful opposition activists. Belkis Cantillo, who remain in jail; 15 were granted conditional Amelia García Vega, Ana Belkis Ferrer García, release for health reasons. Three emigrated to the Gerardo Miranda, Yuniel Santos de la Cruz and United States, Spain and Sweden. In addition, they

52 called for an end to the threats that the 12 released Source: Antonio Suárez Fonticiella, spokesman for prisoners who remain in the country will be the Cuban Refl ection Movement. Radio República. rearrested. They believe that, while the 60 remain Camagüey, March 19, 2006. A simple activity in jail, the International Red Cross should visit sick took place at the headquarters of the Julio prisoners. They also asked for “international human Tang Texier Independent Library in Sibanicú to rights organizations to be permitted to visit the jails commemorate the third anniversary of the jailing of and hospitals.” 75 members of the peaceful opposition during the Source: Agence France Press. Laura Pollán, wife Black Spring of Cuba. They prayed to God and took of jailed independent journalist Héctor Maseda photos of the banners that read, “Free the political Gutiérrez. prisoners” and “Long live a free Cuba”. The activity Havana, March 19, 2006. The Ladies in White, was dedicated to the library’s director, independent the wives, mothers, sisters and relatives of political union leader Lázaro González Adán, who has been prisoners, made their weekly pilgrimage to the held at the Cerámica Roja prison in this province Santa Rita Church at 5ta. Avenida y 26, Miramar. since October 14, 2004. They prayed for freedom for their imprisoned family Source: Fernando Tabares. Marilín Díaz members. After mass at Santa Rita, the 34 Ladies Fernández, Lux Info Press, Radio República. took their traditional silent march along Quinta Camagüey, March 19, 2006. The Ladies in Avenida in Havana. White, the wives, mothers, sisters and family Source: Laura Pollán, wife of jailed independent members of political prisoners from Camagüey, journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. Alejandrina attended Sunday mass at the Santa Ana Church, García de la Riva, wife of political prisoner located at General Gómez #400 esquina a Bembeta Diosdado González Marrero. y Plaza de Santa Ana. The group prayed for the Matanzas, March 19, 2006. Members of the release of all political prisoners. Peace, Love and Freedom Party held a vigil to Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political commemorate the third anniversary of the Black prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. Spring of 2003 at the home of Andrés Govea Suárez, Havana, March 20, 2006. The Ladies in White at Calle Libertad 41 e/ 3 y San Antonio, Guareira. prayed a rosary at 6 a.m. and held a prayer meeting The following were present at the vigil: Rolando at the home of Laura Pollán, Neptuno 963 e/ Wang, Julio Osmán Diaz, Valentín Wang Díaz, Aramburu y Hospital, supplicating for the release Dayrelis González García, Orlando Wang Cepero, of their husbands. At 3:30 p.m., they took to the Noel Aguilar Verde, Iberta Wang and Yabelkis streets wearing bands on their clothes with the word, Govea Piedra. “Amnesty”, carrying gladioluses in their hands and Source: Jorge Luís Álvarez García, Peace, Love and white ribbons. They walked a few kilometers through Freedom Party, Matanzas; Alejandrina García Havana and handed out the gladioluses to all they de la Riva, wife of political prisoner Diosdado passed in the streets, along the walls and standing González Marrero. in doorways, and asked them to pray for their Matanzas, March 19, 2006. Members of the unjustly imprisoned husbands. They then walked Peace, Love and Freedom Party held a vigil to toward the Attorney General’s offi ce, which faces commemorate the third anniversary of the Black the Central Park. When they were refused entry, Spring of 2003 wave of repression at the home they stood in the doorway demanding that the offi ce of Jorge Luís Álvarez, at Rafael Aguila e/ Clotilde immediately free their husbands. In unison they Garcia y Avellaneda, Colón. Ten people, including shouted “Liberty!” and released one white dove in party members and other supporters participated the name of peace, one in the name of justice and in the vigil. a third in the name of liberty. While they observed Source: Jorge Luís Álvarez García, Peace, Love and a moment of silence for their husbands, onlookers Freedom Party, Matanzas; Alejandrina García watched attentively. At 5:30 p.m., they took part in de la Riva, wife of political prisoner Diosdado a mass at the Santa Rita Church. González Marrero. Source: Alejandrina Garcia de la Riva and Laura Villa Clara, March 19, 2006. Hundreds of Pollán, Ladies in White. faithful Catholics, joined by others from the general Matanzas, March 20, 2006. Members of the public, took part in the San José procession through Peace, Love and Freedom Party held a vigil to the streets of Camajuaní. During the march, offerings commemorate the crackdown of the Black Spring were given to San José while members of the Cuban of 2003 at the home of Andrés Govea Suárez, at Revolution Combatants Association, Communist Calle Libertad 41 e/ 3 y San Antonio, Guareira. The Party members and State Security offi cials look on. following were present at the vigil: Rolando Wang,

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 53 Julio Osmán Diaz, Valentín Wang Díaz, Dayrelis discontinue the strike. González García, Orlando Wang Cepero, Noel Source: Liannis Meriño Aguilera, independent Aguilar Verde, Iberta Wang and Yabelkis Govea journalist, Youth Without Censorship press Piedra. agency. Source: Jorge Luís Álvarez García, Peace, Love and Havana, March 22, 2006. The Freedom Freedom Party, Matanzas; Alejandrina García Movement participated in a mass held at the Santa de la Riva, wife of political prisoner Diosdado Bárbara Parish, for prisoners, especially Cuban González Marrero. political prisoners and prisoners of conscience, and Matanzas, March 20, 2006. Ten members and for those freedom seekers who have disappeared. supporters of the Peace, Love and Freedom Party Source: Juan Francisco Humberto Guerra held a vigil to commemorate the third anniversary Perugorría, Freedom Movement. of the Black Spring of 2003 wave of repression at Cienfuegos, March 22, 2006. Anti-Castro the home of Jorge Luís Álvarez, at Rafael Aguila e/ slogans appeared along two central streets of the Clotilde Garcia y Avellaneda, Colón. Rodas municipality. One of them, read “Long live Source: Jorge Luís Álvarez García, Peace, Love and Bush, Down with Fidel.” At the second site, located Freedom Party, Matanzas; Alejandrina García across the street from the home of one Mr. Fleitas, de la Riva, wife of political prisoner Diosdado believed by his neighbors to be a government González Marrero. informer, the sign read “Long live the Fifth Congress Camagüey, March 20, 2006. Róger Cardoso of Bush,” intended to discredit the next Congress of Nieves, a political prisoner held at the Kilo 8 prison, the Cuban Communist Party. began a hunger strike in solidarity with fellow Source: Lázaro Roger Avilés, via Alejandro Tur prisoner of conscience Juan Carlos Herrera, who Valladares, Jagua Press, Cubanet. began a similar act of defi ance on the same day. Villa Clara, March 22, 2006. Iván Hernández Cardoso Nieves complained that the chief of State Carrillo, a prisoner in the El Pre Prison, began Security at the jail, Julio César Bombino González, a hunger strike to protest the confi scation of threatened him with worsening the conditions of his some homemade fl owers he had created for his imprisonment if he did not end his hunger strike. grandmother and mother for Mother’s Day and to But Cardoso was fi rm in his resolve. “I will continue claim his right to religious assistance, which he has the strike regardless of what happens to me; so long never received. As a penalty for his protest, he was as Juan Carlos Herrera is striking – regardless of sent to a punishment cell. his situation – I will keep it up,” he responded. Source: Asunción Carrillo, mother of political Source: Guillermo Llano Ricardo, Eastern prisoner Iván Hernández Carrillo. Democratic Alliance. Luis Esteban Espinosa Villa Clara, March 22, 2006. Family members and Liannis Meriño Aguilera, Youths Without of political prisoner Jorge Luis García Pérez Censorship. Radio República. Antúnez, publicly released a letter they wrote to Camagüey, March 21, 2006. Jorge Luis García the United Nations Human Rights Council. The Pérez “Antúnez”, in a hunger strike alongside Raidel letter was signed by Iris Pérez Aguilera, the wife of Carmenate, made public a letter affi rming that “I Pérez Antúnez, as well as Bertha Antúnez Pernet, am not willing to cede to any type of blackmail, Alejandro García Sardiñas and Damaris García threat or psychological torture. I alert the public Antúnez, the political prisoner’s sister, brother-in- opinion of a fatal outcome… All those of goodwill law and niece, respectively. Through it, they express in the world, give your support and coverage to this their concern for the health of Pérez Antúnez, who protest, both for me and for the youthful Raidel is hunger striking, and for that of his fellow prisoner Carmenate Madruga, whose delicate health is being Raidel Carmenate Madruga, who joined the hunger diminished by starvation with an amazing resistance strike in solidarity with Pérez Antúnez. The letters and dignity.” asks the Cuban government to refl ect on the words Source: Armando Betancourt, New Cuban Press. of the Cuban representative to the United Nations, Radio República. Rodrigo Malmierca to the Council on Human Camagüey, March 21, 2006. Political prisoner Rights, published in the Granma newspaper, that Juan Carlos Herrera Acosta refused to receive justice, international law, dialogue and cooperation medical attention at the Kilo 8 prison, noting the favoring the promotion and protection of human evident manipulation of the medical facilities by rights for all nations and people. State Security forces. Herrera said that on March Source: Bertha Antúnez Pernet, Radio República. 18, Dr. Heidi Borrero Elias, instead of providing Villa Clara, March 22, 2006. Members of the medical assistance, tried to persuade him to Nationalist Civic Movement held an activity in mem-

54 ory of those fallen in combat in 1962 in the Sierra Hernández, who has been on a hunger strike Escambray Mountains, especially in El Algarrobo. since January 31 to demand free access to the During the ceremony, the memory of Martyr Tomás Internet for all Cubans. According to Idania Yánez Hernández Gutiérrez was highlighted along with Contreras, the coordinator of the Marta Abreu that of other brave Cubans. Women’s Movement, fi ve women from her group Source: Idalberto González Gómez, Nationalist began a peaceful demonstration at the Movement’s Civic Movement. headquarters. Meanwhile, Niurvys Díaz Remond, a Villa Clara, March 22, 2006. Twenty-three peo- reporter with the Fariñas’ Cubanacán Press agency, ple attended a meeting at the home of the Liberal said that the hunger striking reporter is in the Party of Cuba delegate Bernardo Luis Ascanio intensive care unit of the Arnaldo Milián Castro, Camargo to coordinate the work of independent li- where his health continues to deteriorate. braries in Villa Clara province. Source: Roberto Santana Rodríguez, Cubanet. Source: Idania Yanes Contreras, Marta Abreu Niurvys Díaz, Cubanacán Press. Women’s Movement and Yuniesky García López, Villa Clara, March 23, 2006. The Mahatma Liberal Party of Cuba. Gandhi Independent Library opened in the home of Camagüey, March 22, 2006. Political prisoner its director, Miguel Cabrera Cabrera, in Alejandro Juan Carlos Herrera Acosta, being held at the Om 51, Santa Clara. “We propose to create a space Kilo 8 prison, sewed his mouth shut and put on a in this community to debate information without shirt with the slogan, “Down with Fidel, freedom censorship,” he said, adding that his neighbors for all political prisoners and the 75.” This protest happily welcomed the alternative library and arose after prison authorities rejected Herrera that they have already solicited Against All Hope, Acosta’s request to telephone his mother a few by Armando Valladares, and The Power of the days prior. Shortly after that rejection, the prisoner Powerless, by Vaclav Hável. of conscience knocked on a door to reiterate his Source: Roberto Santana Rodríguez, Cubanet. petition and four offi cials cruelly refused him. The Pinar del Río, March 24, 2006. In a letter to his re-educator Alejandro Jordán Escalona González mother, political prisoner Orlando Zapata Tamayo offended him and pushed him. With the help of the sent a message to all Cubans urging all political other three (Nelson Domenech, Silver Savon Diez prisoners on the island as well as the 11 million and Jordanis Gonzalez Peraza) they beat him and Cubans who suffer from the agony imposed by the dragged him back to his cell throwing him in head regime to stay fi rm just as he does, with dignity, fi rst. struggling against the dictatorship that has cost the Source: Ileana Danger Hardy. Radio República. lives of thousands of Cubans who have died in the Holguín, March 22, 2006. Neighbors of the sea searching for freedom. Zapata said that he has rural town of Manabí in the Banes municipality, been a victim of cruel treatment, but he remains protested the threatened eviction of Mariana Abreu resolute. He ends his letter with, “Long live human Burneo, who has lived in the town for 22 years. rights and long live a free Cuba!” Mariana’s home burned down and was condemned. Source: Liannis Meriño Aguilera, Youth Without She began to live in a shelter that was later declared Censorship press agency. Radio República. Reina inhabitable due to the poor condition of the Tamayo Dánger, mother of political prisoner building. Mariana, her son and her eight-month-old Orlando Zapata Tamayo. granddaughter then took refuge in a storefront that Havana, March 24, 2006. The Brothers United had been abandoned by the Municipal Communal non-governmental organization was founded on the Company many months earlier. Now, the Housing third anniversary of the repressive wave of 2003. Institute’s attorney, accompanied by two police The new organization is based out of the home of offi cers told her to vacate the premises or face a Armando Rodríguez, secretary of organization, at forced eviction and the ensuing 1,500-peso fi ne. Calle C #8212-14, apto. 3, e/ Tercera y Segunda, For 22 years, Mariana Álvarez had written letters to Caballo Blanco, San Miguel del Padrón. Pavel Torres many government offi ces, receiving only promises Cedeño, the president of Brothers United, said that until now, when she was threatened with eviction. the group arose to meet the prisoners’ needs for Source: Liannis Meriño Aguilera, independent prayer and assistance. “Their work will be to help journalist, Youth Without Censorship press agency. political prisoners and their families, supporting Radio República. them through the Holy Scriptures.” Assistance to Villa Clara, March 23, 2006. A chain of fasts the captive, said Cedeño, is the founding principle began in the city of Santa Clara in solidarity with of the organization. “Remember those who are the independent journalist Guillermo Fariñas in prison, as though in prison with them,” he

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 55 said, quoting Hebrews, Chapter 13, Verse 3. The those who are on hunger strikes and for Guillermo organization’s leadership includes Eduardo León Fariñas, who languishes in a Santa Clara hospital. López as vice president, Alexei Gutiérrez Estrada The ceremony continued with a reading of Psalms as secretary for human rights and Raúl Vilar as 86 and 91 and a discussion of the situation of Martha secretary for fi nance. Beatriz Roque Cabello, who is the constant victim of Source: Shelyn Rojas, Cubanet. death threats from paramilitary mobs. The activity Havana, March 24, 2006. The Independent closed with a determination to continue struggling Labor Union Movement of Cuba issued a declaration for the release of their brothers and freedom for accusing Fidel Castro of violating the conventions Cuba. of the International Labor Organization. The Source: Idania Yánes Contreras, Marta Abreu group complained that the Cuban worker labors Women’s Movement. without rights, receives a salary too low to maintain Holguín, March 24, 2006. Alberto González, his family with dignity, is not free to join with 76, known as Beto, publicly denounces the offi cial whomever he sees fi t and, above all, lacks the right Cuban information regarding Cuba’s medical to go on strike. The National Independent Workers power and notes how shocked he is that citizens Confederation of Cuba (CONIC), which comprises of other countries receive immediate medical 100 independent unions and has representation in assistance in Cuba while he and other Cubans are Pinar del Río, Havana, Havana province, Matanzas, left on their own. This discriminatory treatment is Villa Clara, Ciego de Ávila, Camagüey, Las Tunas, a source of discontent among Cubans. The former Granma, Santiago de Cuba and Isla de Pinos, combatant in the 26 de Julio Movement lost his also noted that while Cuba has legal defi nitions vision as a result of cataracts and glaucoma. He that recognize labor and human rights, these are is waiting on the modernization of this province’s manipulated by the Castro regime and the laborer ophthalmologic equipment to see whether he can is entirely unable to learn about his rights to freely receive an operation. associate, to belong to whichever union group he Source: Liannis Meriño Aguilera, independent chooses and thus believes he is required to join the journalist, Youth Without Censorship press agency. state-run Workers Central of Cuba (CTC), the only Radio República. labor organization permitted on the island. The Havana, March 25, 2006. Members of the CTC responds directly to the Cuban Communist Cuban Liberal Movement’s Marianao delegation Party. “We demand that the dictatorship of Fidel held a vigil to express their solidarity with the Castro immediately stop violating the conventions hunger strike of Guillermo Fariñas Hernández, the of the International Labor Organization and grant journalist and director of Cubanacán Press. They unconditional release to our arbitrarily imprisoned read a statement and the activists prayed the Lord’s countrymen,” the statement closed. Prayer for Fariñas’ health. The vigil took place at the Source: Carlos Serpa Maceira, independent home of Felix Lorenzo Garúa Izquierdo, Calle 86, journalist with Lux InfoPress, director of the Cuba- e/ 45 y 47, Edifi cio 4514, Apt. 11, Marianao. Felix Miami Information Bridge Independent Press Lorenzo Garúa Izquierdo, Milagros de la Caridad Bureau. Radio República. Hidalgo Caraballo, Marisol Garúa Hidalgo, Flora Villa Clara, March 24, 2006. Twelve members Antonina Caraballo Perez, Silvio Benitez Márquez, of the Maceo Movement for Dignity held a 12-hour Alicia Curbelo Collazo, Nereida Guillermina fast in solidarity with Cubanacán Press director Márquez Menendes, Andy Perasa González, Maribel Guillermo Fariñas Hernández, who is in serious Macias Aguilar, Jorge González Mesa, María Teresa condition at Santa Clara’s Arnaldo Milián Castro Alemán Díaz, Erley Foro Díaz and Sulema Sanchez hospital. The fast took place at the home of Roque took part in the vigil. Emilio Martínez Angulo, San Cristóbal #453 e/ A y Source: Roberto Miranda Díaz and Silvio Benítez Libertadores, Santa Clara. Márquez, Cuban Liberal Movement. Source: Idania Yánes Contreras, Marta Abreu Villa Clara, March 25, 2006. The María Cabrales Women’s Movement; Roque Emilio Martínez Independent Library held a children’s activity at Angulo, Maceo Movement for Dignity. its facility, located at Edifi cio 10, Apartamento 5, Villa Clara, March 24, 2006. The Maceo Reparto José Martí, Santa Clara. Its director, Noelia Movement for Dignity met at the Santa Clara home Pedraza Jiménez, thanked Marta Beatriz Roque for of Luis Aragón García to celebrate the traditional sponsoring the event and said that 25 dissidents, candlelight vigil praying for the release of political joined by their children, took part in the event. prisoners. It begins with the singing of the nation- Source: Roberto Santana Rodríguez, Cubanet. al anthem and a prayer for the brothers in prison, Villa Clara, March 25, 2006. The Marta Abreu

56 Members of the Cuban Liberal Movement from Marianao pray during a vigil of solidarity with journalist Guillermo Fariñas, who was on hunger strike.

Women’s Movement organized a children’s activity activists from various non-governmental promoted by the independent library network. organizations met at the Iglesia del Carmen Members of the Liberal Party of Cuba in Santa Clara Church to attend mass and pray to God for the life attended the activity, held at the home of Noelia of Guillermo Fariñas, the general director of the Pedraza Jiménez along with numerous children. Cubanacán Press press agency, who is in the midst Source: Idania Yanes Contreras, Marta Abreu of a hunger strike. They also prayed for all political Women’s Movement and Yuniesky García López, prisoners. Liberal Party of Cuba. Source: Roberto Carlos Pérez García, national Havana, March 26, 2006. The Ladies in White, coordinator of the Christian Democratic Movement the wives, mothers, sisters and relatives of political of Cuba. prisoners, made their weekly pilgrimage to the Camagüey, March 26. 2006. The Ladies in Santa Rita Church at 5ta. Avenida y 26, Miramar. White, the wives, mothers, sisters and family They prayed for freedom for their imprisoned members of political prisoners from Camagüey, family members. attended Sunday mass at the Santa Ana Church, Source: Laura Pollán, wife of jailed independent located at General Gómez #400 esquina a Bembeta journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. y Plaza de Santa Ana. The group prayed for the Villa Clara, March 26, 2006. The Martí Youth release of all political prisoners. Coalition baseball team from the city of Santa Clara Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political played against the youth team from the city cited prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. above. Following the fi rst game, the youths played Holguín, March 26, 2006. Eleven activists another team made up of members of the coalition from the Cuban Human Rights Foundation and and other youths present in the place who joined the Eastern Democratic Alliance observed a prayer the activity. The games were organized to provide service at the Nuestra Señora de la Caridad Church in Cuban youths with a space for social participation Banes to pray for national unity and reconciliation. regardless of their political ideologies, religious They prayed before the Virgin of Charity for political beliefs or skin color, as well as to promote moral prisoners and their families, placing a fl oral wreath civic values. at the Virgin’s feet. Source: Alaín Ramón Gómez Ramos, Cubanacán Source: Marta Díaz Rondón, Lucia Iñiguez Press, Martí Youth Coalition. Women’s Movement, Eastern Democratic Alliance, Villa Clara, March 26, 2006. Three opposition Director of the Gastón Baquero Independent PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 57 Library. Dayamis Romero Ortiz, human rights Herrera Acosta, on a hunger strike at the Kilo 8 activist. Liannis Meriño Aguilera, Youths Without prison since March 4, sent a message to his fellow Censorship. freedom fi ghters both in Cuba and abroad. “Be Holguín, March 27, 2006. Citizens of Banes strong,” he wrote, “someday Cuba will be free. I, protested openly in front of the Banes municipal for my part, will continue this hunger strike until ophthalmologic clinic to demand medical the end. My health is very delicate, but my dignity assistance. A single ophthalmologist, who has yet very high. I will continue describing my situation so to complete her studies, is singularly responsible that the world knows the reality of Cuba’s prisons, for 90,000 residents. The deterioration of eye care which are nothing more than massive human services contrasts sharply with the services that extermination camps. foreign citizens receive from Cuban specialists in Source: Liannis Meriño Aguilera, independent this fi eld as part of the so-called Operation Miracle. journalist, Youth Without Censorship press agency. At the genesis of this protest is the defi cient medical Radio República. attention and lack of medication despite news of Havana, March 29, 2006. The Freedom drug exports to other countries. Movement participated in a mass held at the Source: Liannis Meriño Aguilera, independent Santa Bárbara Parish, located in Havana’s Párraga journalist, Youth Without Censorship press agency. neighborhood, in communion with Guillermo Radio República. Fariñas Hernández, for all prisoners, especially Pinar del Río, March 28, 2006. Prisoner of Cuban political prisoners and prisoners of conscience and independent journalist Normando conscience, and for those freedom seekers who Hernando González refused to stand during an have disappeared, as well as other causes. They activity at the Kilo 5 ½ prison and instead shouted called for solidarity with the Cuban people in their antigovernment slogans. Nelson Molinet, a fellow quest for freedom and democracy. Participating in political prisoner and an independent trade the event were Juan Francisco Humberto Guerra unionist who was a member of the Group of 75, Perugorría, president of the Freedom Movement; joined Hernando González; both were taken to Juan Ochoa Leyva, political prisoner, Freedom punishment cells. Movement; Carlos Manuel Rodríguez García, Source: Alejandrina García de la Riva, Yaraí Pérez Freedom Movement. Petra Serafi na Díaz Castillo, Marín. Radio República. Luis Esteban Espinosa, Freedom Movement; María Mercedes Almagro Youths Without Censorship. Redes; María de Leonel Morejón; Andrés Pellicier Isla de Pinos, March 28, 2006. The new 28 Chacón, Liberal Orthodox Party; Alberto Duany de Enero Independent Library in Nueva Gerona Guzmán, Freedom Movement. opened at Calle 22 #103, e/ Primera y Tercera, Source: Juan Francisco Humberto Guerra Sierra de Caballos. “We are committed to promoting Perugorría, Freedom Movement; Anaika Paneca uncensored literature among the people of Isla de Román, “Frank País” 30th of November Democratic Pinos, estimated at more than 180,000 inhabitants, Party ; Ángel De Fana Serrano, Plantados Until taking into account their avidity for alternative Freedom and Democracy in Cuba. information and the fact we fi nd ourselves Villa Clara, March 29, 2006. Nine members of geographically isolated from the rest of Cuba,” the Christian Democratic Movement of Cuba began said Noel de la Pena Rivera. Sergio Santa Cruz a vigil at their headquarters in support of the hunger Oviedo, the coordinator of the independent library striking activist, Guillermo Fariñas Hernández, project on the island, said that, in spite of the fi erce and political prisoners throughout the country. repression, twelve independent libraries are up and The activity began in the evening hours with the running on the Isla de Pinos. singing of the national anthem and the reading of Source: Carlos Serpa Maceira, Lux InfoPress, Psalms 99 and 100. This was followed by a debate director of the Cuba-Miami Information Bridge regarding the terrorist characteristic of the armed Independent Press Bureau. Radio República. struggle prior to 1959. Cienfuegos, March 28, 2006. Amid harassment Source: Roberto Carlos Pérez García, national from police and paramilitary forces, a delegation coordinator of the Christian Democratic Movement of the Liberal Party of Cuba held a meeting in the of Cuba. Radio República. Rodas municipality. Twelve liberals attended the Santiago de Cuba, March 29, 2006. Recent gathering to strengthen their bonds of friendship. appearances of antigovernment graffi ti were Source: Alejandro Tur Valladares, Jagua Press, reported in Palmarito, Mella, San Luis, Alto Cubanet. Songo, Santiago de Cuba and in different Camagüey, March 28. 2006. Juan Carlos neighborhoods of Palma Soriano. The signs,

58 which read “Down with Fidel!” and “Down with the 10. The petition was granted by the prison warden, dictatorship!” released a repressive wave against who facilitates their transfer to the Combinado del peaceful dissidents. Este prison in Havana. Source: Virgilio Delat la O, APLO, Cubanet. Roberto Source: Roberto Santana Rodríguez, Cubanet. Santana Rodríguez, Cubanet. Havana, March 31, 2006. Some 500 people Havana, March 31, 2006. A protest took place from 10 de Octubre and Arroyo Naranjo gathered for three hours in the middle of the day at the in the Córdoba Park in La Víbora to participate in Guanajay prison, keeping more than 100 police the Vía Crucis presided over by Bishop Alfredo Petit ofﬁ cers busy. The incident was provoked by Manuel Vergel. The procession followed the route of the de Jesús González and Pedro Izquierdo, prisoners cross, ending at 8 p.m. Three patrol cars closed off who demanded transfers due to complaints about the roads one block around the park. mistreatment, including a brutal beating on March Source: Jaime Leigonier, Cubanet.

The Christian Democratic Party of Camagüey held a vigil for freedom without forced exile for Cuban political prisoners and ratiﬁ ed its support for the non-cooperation campaign.

Emblem of the Christian Democratic Party of Camagüey.

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 59 60 APRIL 2006 Matanzas, April 1, 2006. Nearly all of the Source: Raiza Martínez, Democratic Party 30th of members of the Peace, Love and Freedom Party November “Frank País”, Havana. met at 10 a.m. at Calle Calixto García #26, Colón, Matanzas, April 2, 2006. Members of the Martí to discuss the organization’s unity program as well Youth Coalition (CJM) held a friendly baseball game as the progress of the party’s Join Up, Women for in the Colón municipality. Following the game, the Freedom project, the nonviolent actions in which the players discussed the lack of recreation and activi- party has engaged to demand that the government ties in Colón, a problem that the local government free political prisoners and support their wives. They has not addressed. decided to petition international organizations and Source: Roberto Santana Rodríguez, Cubanet. the presidents of democratic countries to free the Matanzas, April 2, 2006. The Peace, Love and prisoners from the spring of 2003. Freedom Party’s “Join Up!” women’s project called Source: Alejandrina García de la Riva, wife of po- members to participate in a 9:30 a.m. mass at the litical prisoner Diosdado González Marrero. San Rafael de Colón Parish. They prayed for Cuba’s Camagüey, April 1, 2006. Volume 4, Issue 25 political prisoners to be granted unconditional re- of El Camagüeyano is published. This issue fea- lease and for Cuba to be a democratic country where tures an article by Luis Guerra Juvier on the inde- all have equal rights and the statutes in the United pendent press, the continuation of the article on Nations charter are not violated. After mass, they the Assembly to Promote Civil Society in Cuba and kneeled before the altar of Our Lady of Charity of El an article on the Catholic Church’s social doctrine. Cobre to pray for her blessing and the quick release There is also a special supplement on the history of the prisoners. of journalism in Camagüey dating back to the fi rst Source: Alejandrina García de la Riva, wife of po- newspaper that existed there in the early days of the litical prisoner Diosdado González Marrero. republican era. Ciego de Ávila, April 2, 2006. The National Source: Luis Guerra Juvier, Nueva Prensa Cubana. Secretariat of the Cuban Human Rights Julio Romero Muñoz, Free Expression Solidarity Foundation offi cials awarded the Paloma Prize at Movement. the Foundation’s headquarters, located at Calle Holguín, April 1, 2006. Thirteen members Honorato del Castillo #154, e/ República y Cuba, in of the Eastern Democratic Alliance held a vigil Ciego de Ávila. Eleven people were on hand to see in support of independent journalist Guillermo the judges give this year’s honors to: independent Fariñas Hernández at the Wenceslao Aguilera Feria journalist and Cubanacán Press Director Guillermo Independent Library, located at Calle Celia Sánchez Fariñas Hernández (independent journalism cat- Manduley #33 e/ Máximo Gómez y Diego M. Yedra. egory); non-violent resistance leader Margarito They proposed a widespread fast throughout the Broche Espinosa (human rights category), the for- eastern provinces. mer political prisoner from the Group of 75 jailed Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, Eastern in the spring of 2003 currently under conditional Democratic Alliance. release, who is the acting president of the National Havana, April 2, 2006. The Ladies in White, Association of Rafters for Peace, Democracy and the wives, mothers, sisters and relatives of politi- Freedom; former prisoner of conscience and the cal prisoners, made their weekly pilgrimage to the president of the Cuban Movement of Youths for Santa Rita Church at 5ta. Avenida y 26, Miramar. Democracy, Néstor Rodríguez Lobaina. They prayed for freedom for their imprisoned fam- Source: Juan Carlos González Leiva, Cuban ily members. Foundation for Human Rights. Laida Carro, Source: Laura Pollán, wife of jailed independent Coalition of Cuban-American Women. Liannis journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. Meriño Aguilera, Youths Without Censorship. Havana, April 2, 2006. Members of the Camagüey, April 2, 2006. The Ladies in White, Democratic Party 30th of November “Frank País” the wives, mothers, sisters and family members attended a mass at the Church of the Diezmero to of political prisoners from Camagüey, attended mark the fi rst anniversary of the death of Pope John Sunday mass at the Santa Ana Church, located at Paul II. They prayed for the health and release of all General Gómez # 400 esquina a Bembeta y Plaza political prisoners. de Santa Ana. The group prayed for the release of

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 61 all political prisoners. protested in front of the Ministry of the Interior Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political building in Camagüey for the health of her son, po- prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. litical prisoner Roger Cardoso Nieves, in a hunger Camagüey, April 2, 2006. The Ladies in White of strike at the Kilo 8 prison in Camagüey. Camagüey held a march during the morning hours Source: Liannis Meriño Aguilera, Youth Without from the Plaza de La Habana to Santa Ana Church Censorship press agency. Radio República. for Sunday mass. Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, Bertha Havana, April 5, 2006. The Freedom Movement Bueno Fuentes, Ileana López Valdés and Marlenes participated in a mass held at the Santa Bárbara Bermúdez Sardiñas all wore white and each carried Parish for prisoners, especially Cuban political pris- a gladiolus, which they offered to God for the health oners, and for those freedom seekers who have dis- and release of the political prisoners. appeared. Source: Armando Betancourt. Radio República. Source: Juan Francisco Humberto Guerra Holguín, April 4, 2006. The Eastern Democratic Perugorría, Freedom Movement; Anaika Paneca Alliance and the Cuban Movement of Youths for Román, Democratic Party 30th of November Democracy spoke out publicly against the cruel “Frank País”; Ángel De Fana Serrano, Plantados and inhumane treatment that political prisoners Until Freedom and Democracy in Cuba. in Cuban prisons face, demanding their immediate Havana, April 5, 2006. Members of the Pro- and unconditional release. Human Rights Party, an afﬁ liate organization of the Source: Liannis Meriño Aguilera, Youths Without Andrei Sakharov Foundation, held an activity at the Censorship, Radio República . home of Joel Rodríguez Díaz, 134 #20228 e/ 289 y Holguín, April 4, 2006. Members of the Eastern Final, Berenguer, Calabazar, Boyeros. The sixteen Democratic Alliance and the Movement of Youths dissidents present began by singing the national for Democracy began a fast in Banes in solidarity anthem and then prayed for Cuba’s opening to the with political prisoners and with Guillermo Fariñas world, freedom for its people, national unity and Hernández, who has demanded free Internet access the release of all political prisoners. They shared for all Cubans. Fourteen activists participated in the information regarding the opposition activists event at the Gastón Baquero Independent Library, arrested on June 13 and 22 of last year and read located at Calle Carlos Manuel de Céspedes #2006, aloud the party’s by-laws. e/ Avenida de Cárdenas y General Marrero. Source: Camilo Cairo Falcón, member of the Pro- Source: Liannis Meriño Aguilera, Youths Without Human Rights Party, an afﬁ liate organization of Censorship, Radio República . Eliécer Consuegra the Andrei Sakharov Foundation. Rivas, Eastern Democratic Alliance. Matanzas, April 5, 2006. The Peace, Love and Holguín, April 4, 2006. Members of the Eastern Freedom Party met at Calle Calixto García #96, Democratic Alliance held a fast at Calle Camilo in Colón, to hold a fast and remember the trial of Cienfuegos #124, in Moa, in support of Guillermo their organization’s president, Diosdado González Fariñas Hernández. Omar Wilson Estévez Real, Marrero, who was sentenced to 20 years in prison. Martín Ruiz González, Silverio Herrera Acosta, The brother of Pedro Luis Boitel participated in Francisco Hernández Gómez, Felipe Ramos Leiva, the fast and the women of the Join Up, Women Anabel González Méndez, Maritza Cardoza Romero for Freedom project created a mural featuring and Osiel Olivares Tito were among the ten activists González Marrero. They also held discussions with participating. audiovisual materials. Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, Eastern Source: Alejandrina García de la Riva, the wife Democratic Alliance. Juan Carlos Garcell Pérez, of Diosdado González Marrero, Peace, Love and Eastern Free Press Agency (APLO). Freedom Party, Radio República. Holguín, April 4, 2006. Twenty members of Holguín, April 5, 2006. Members of the Eastern the Eastern Democratic Alliance and the Cuban Democratic Alliance held a fast in Moa, in support Movement of Youths for Democracy met at the of Guillermo Fariñas Hernández. Sixteen activists Wenceslao Aguilera Feria Independent Library, took part in the event, held at the home of Felipe Calle Celia Sánchez Manduley #33 e/ Máximo Disnay Ramos Leiva, at Calle Primera, Reparto Gómez y Diego M. Yedra, Antilla, to support Joselillo. Guillermo Fariñas Hernández and pray for his well- Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, Eastern being. Democratic Alliance. Juan Carlos Garcell Pérez, Source: Liannis Meriño Aguilera, Youth Without Eastern Free Press Agency (APLO). Censorship press agency. Radio República. Holguín, April 5, 2006. Six activists with Holguín, April 4, 2006. Beatriz Nieves Molina the Cuban Human Rights Foundation and the

62 Activists meet in the Ileana Ros independent library to hold a fast in support of independent journalist Guillermo Fariñas in his hunger strike to demand the right to unrestricted internet access for all Cubans.

Eastern Democratic Alliance managed to elude the ment to put a stop to the abuse, the violation of hu- watchful vigilance of pro-Castro mobs surrounding man rights and other physical violence committed independent journalist Maikel Verdecia Torres’ against both political and nonpolitical prisoners in Banes home and hold a fast in solidarity with the country’s prisons. She denounced the govern- Guillermo Fariñas Hernández. ment for doing away with the young people of the Source: Liannis Meriño Aguilera, Youth Without country, saying that instead of preparing them, the Censorship press agency. Radio República. government is traumatizing them. She called for Holguín, April 5, 2006. The neighbors of Maikel an end to intra-Cuban violence and asked the Red Verdecia Torres refused to cooperate with State Cross to inspect the prisons to see what atrocities Security First Lieutenant Yosvani, who attempted take place in Cuba. to incite them into helping him prevent a fast Source: Asunción Carrillo, mother of political pris- scheduled by the Cuban Human Rights Foundation oner Iván Hernández Carrillo and the Eastern Democratic Alliance at the Verdecia Holguín, April 6, 2006. Members of the Eastern Torres’ home in Banes. He threatened them with a Democratic Alliance held a fast in Moa, in support of thrashing, but the residents refused to cooperate. Guillermo Fariñas Hernández. Seven activists took Source: Liannis Meriño Aguilera, Youth Without part in the fast at the home of Francisco Hernández Censorship press agency. Radio República. Gómez, Calle Antonio Boizán #25, Reparto Haití Santiago de Cuba April 5, 2006 Activists of Chiquito. the Cuban Youth Movement for Democracy meet Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, Eastern to conduct a vigil for the freedom of political Democratic Alliance. Juan Carlos Garcell Pérez, prisoners and to study the real history of Cuba. In Eastern Free Press Agency (APLO). the activity several poems by Jose Marti are read. Villa Clara, April 7, 2006. The Marta Abreu Source: Rolando Rodríguez Lobaina, Cuban Youth Women’s Movement attended a religious activity Movement for Democracy, Cuban Democratic at the Buen Viaje Church in Santa Clara. They de- Directorate. manded freedom for political prisoners and prayed Villa Clara, April 6, 2006. Asunción Carrillo, for the life of Guillermo Fariñas Hernández. A heavy mother of political prisoner Iván Hernández police presence developed outside the church. Carrillo, called on public opinion, the press and Source: Idania Yánes Contreras, Marta Abreu the exile community to pressure the Cuban govern- Women’s Movement.

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 63 Pinar del Río, April 8, 2006. The Cambio Havana, April 9, 2006. The Ladies in White, the Independent Union was established, promoted and wives, mothers, sisters and relatives of political pris- directed by journalist Carlos Ríos García. Its objec- oners, made their weekly Sunday pilgrimage to the tive is to gather the concerns and reports of abuse Santa Rita Church at 5ta. Avenida y 26, Miramar. from workers, both state-employed and self-em- They prayed for freedom for their imprisoned fam- ployed. The inauguration was to be celebrated at the ily members. home of activist Blanca Rivera Sánchez, but she was Source: Laura Pollán, wife of jailed independent arrested early that morning and driven to the politi- journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. cal police station. At 11 a.m., Offi cer Ramón Beúne Cienfuegos, April 9, 2006. Members of the arrived at the residence and told Abigail Ortega National Board of Directors of the Liberal Party of Beltrán, Carlos Ríos García, Yoel Martínez Cruz Cuba met with the party’s Cienfuegos delegation. and Rivera Sánchez’ husband, Javier Rodríguez During the meeting, they discussed different alter- Rodríguez, that they would face serious conse- natives for the party to determine growth and train- quences if they go through with the event. After ing processes. a few minutes of trying to blackmail them, Beúne Source: Julia Cecilia Delgado, Liberal Party of left the home and the group held the activity in the Cuba. home of another activist. Camagüey, April 9, 2006. The Ladies in White, Source: Yoel Martínez Cruz, The “I Need My Space” the wives, mothers, sisters and family members Project, Radio República. of political prisoners from Camagüey, attended Villa Clara, April 8 and 12, 2006. The Marta Sunday mass at the Santa Ana Church, located at Abreu Women’s Movement handed out alterna- General Gómez # 400 esquina a Bembeta y Plaza tive literature in the public street to passersbys de Santa Ana. The group prayed for the release of from Santa Clara and Placetas. The passersbys ea- all political prisoners. gerly accepted copies of the Universal Declaration Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political of Human Rights. Movement coordinator Idania prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. Yanes Contreras reported that many of the benefi - Havana, April 10, 2006. The Ladies in White ciaries read the document immediately upon receiv- marched through the streets of Havana to com- ing it. Noelia Pedraza Jiménez, the president of the memorate the third anniversary of the arrest of organization, said that people in the bus terminal their family members. The dissident group invit- and in the Placetas hospital received the documents. ed the Spanish leader of the United Left, Gaspar Pedraza Jiménez said that they would continue in- Llamazares, to travel to Cuba to see the country’s forming the public as long as the government does reality after the coalition vetoed a measure support- not arrest them or kill them. ing the prisoners’ release. Source: Idania Yánes Contreras and Noelia Pedraza Villa Clara, April 10, 2006. Two members of Jiménez, Marta Abreu Women’s Movement. the Christian Democratic Movement of Cuba paid Pinar del Río, April 9, 2006. A fast was held a working visit to the group’s Rancho Veloz delega- at the home of human rights activist Yoel Martínez tion in Carralillo. Julio César Montes Merey and Cruz to support and give thanks to journalist Roberto Carlos Pérez García arrived at the home Guillermo Fariñas, hospitalized for maintaining a of Guillermo Casabuena Montesinos and met with hunger fast since January 31. The following activ- other members to plan new strategies and projects ists gathered to honor Fariñas for his bravery and for achieving democracy through a peaceful transi- love for others: Joel Martínez Cruz, Alexander tion. Casabuena Montesinos lives at Central Quintín Ortega Martínez of the Democratic Front for the Banderas #59, Rancho Veloz. Freedom of Cuba, Eliosver Garriga Cabrera, Frank Source: Roberto Carlos Pérez García, Christian Jesús Serrano Cegato, Amado Macías Alvarado, Democratic Movement of Cuba. Radio República. Jesús Lórgiga Morales, Rosario Travieso Carrillo, Havana, April 11, 2006. Political prisoner Miguel Alfonso Valdés, Alberto Cabrera Llinás, Lázaro Alonso Román announced a hunger strike Jesús Demencia Alfonso Valdés and Sergio Alfonso and refused medical assistance at the Melena del Cruz of the Racial Integration Movement. Sur prison after jail offi cials mistreated him. As Source: Yoel Martínez Cruz, Radio República. he headed out to receive a scheduled visit from his Pinar del Rio, April 9, 2006. Activists met at family, carrying a toy truck he had made from old the Ileana Ros Independent Library to support in- cardboard boxes for his son, two guards, the chief dependent journalist Guillermo Fariñas in his con- guard known as Parra and another named Ever, tinued hunger strike to demand free Internet access searched him before he went into the visiting room for the Cuban people. and confi scated the truck, throwing it on the ground

64 and kicking it apart. They then threatened and ver- participated in a mass held at the Santa Bárbara bally berated him. Following the visit, the guards Parish for prisoners, especially Cuban political pris- refused to hand over the foodstuffs his family had oners and prisoners of conscience, and for those brought for him. freedom seekers who have disappeared. Source: Lázaro Alonso Román, Vivian Alonso Source: Juan Francisco Humberto Guerra Roman, sister of the activist; Minaldo Ramos Perugorría, Freedom Movement; Anaika Paneca Salgado, president of the Cuban National Román, Democratic Party 30th of November Commission; Carlos Serpa Maceira, Lux Info “Frank País”; Ángel De Fana Serrano, Plantados Press Agency and director of the Cuba-Miami Until Freedom and Democracy in Cuba. Information Bridge press agency. Isla de Pinos, April 13, 2006. The Julio Tang Camagüey, April 11, 2006. Prisoners of con- Texier Cultural Civic Project paid tribute to Cuba’s science Juan Carlos Herrera Acosta and Leoncio historic political prisoners with a vigil on the Isla Rodríguez Ponce refused to accept food at de Pinos in Unit 2 of the model prison. The activ- Camagüey’s Kilo 8 prison cafeteria to protest the ists wore white T-shirts bearing the word Cambio violations of their rights and the mistreatment they (change) and made public a declaration demanding have suffered. They complained that they are not the unconditional release of the political prisoners, allowed to receive letters or to communicate with the holding of free elections and Fidel Castro’s relin- their families, and that they are not given medical quishment of power. Sergio Santa Cruz de Oviedo, attention. They demanded religious assistance and Yioveni Céspedes Martí, Yuran de la Peña Rivera, to be transferred to Guantánamo, which is the home Ana Berta Julián Núñez, Noel de la Pena Rivera and province of both activists. They have spent numer- journalist Carlos Serpa Maceira all participated in ous years in jail and are in poor health. They are the event. eating only the foodstuffs from the care packages Source: Carlos Serpa Maceira, independent jour- they received on family visits. They will continue nalist, Lux Info Press. their protest until they receive a response or die. Camagüey, April 14, 2006. Faithful Catholics Source: Marilín Díaz Fernández, Pro-Freedom of gathered at the Church of the Merced in Camagüey the Press Association, Lux InfoPress to commemorate Good Friday with a procession Guantánamo, April 11, 2006. Giovanni David through the streets of the city carrying the majes- Caballero Martín, who lives at Avenida Malecón tic image of the Lord evoking the Passion of Christ. #80, Baracoa, demanded a group of police ofﬁ cers Hundreds of lights illuminate the Holy Sepulcher respect his rights as a person and shouted at the top and dozens of children walked ahead of the proces- of his lungs that human rights are not respected in sion with burning candles. Archbishop Juan García, Cuba. This took place during the night at the Baracoa joined by members of the clergy, marched behind police station when agents harassed the young man the sepulcher, inviting the faithful to repent of their following a violent arrest in the public street. sins. The procession continued along Calle Cisneros Source: Luis Esteban Espinosa, Youths Without to the metropolitan cathedral. In the background, Censorship. Radio República. the municipal band played. Isla de Pinos, April 12, 2006. The Independent Source: Armando Betancourt Reina, Barrio Library Projects and the Julio Tang Texier Cultural Adentro. Radio República. Civic Project held a joint vigil in Nueva Gerona call- Havana, April 16, 2006. The Ladies in White, ing for the unconditional release of 11 independent the wives, mothers, sisters and relatives of politi- librarians jailed by the Castro government for pro- cal prisoners, made their weekly pilgrimage to the moting uncensored literature. During the act of civ- Santa Rita Church at 5ta. Avenida y 26, Miramar. il disobedience, the group lit a candle and raised a They prayed for the release of Cuba’s political pris- sign reading, “Freedom without Exile for the Cuban oners. Political Prisoners.” The activity was held at Calle Source: Laura Pollán, wife of jailed independent 8 #2053 Apto. 3 e/ E y F, Reparto Micro 70. Noel journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. De la Peña Rivera, Gerlys Pérez La Rosa, the ex-po- Matanzas, April 16, 2006. The Martí Youth litical prisoner Pedro Reyez Fuentes, Ana Bertha Coalition organized a baseball championship fea- Juliat Nuñez, Sandra Proenza Rodríguez, Vladimir turing the participation of 32 players divided into Araña Rosa, Yuran DelaPhena Rivera, Carlos Serpa four teams. At the end of the games, the youths dis- Maceira, Yoveni Cespedez Martí, Amaury Juliat cussed the deplorable condition of the ﬁ eld, the lack Nuñez, David Perez Placeres and Sergio Santa Cruz of lighting and the fence, which is surrounded by de Oviedo participated in the vigil. trash heaps that neighbors have created. They also Havana, April 12, 2006. The Freedom Movement talked about the lack of importance given to the ed-

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 65 ucational system and the government’s attention to Havana, April 18, 2006. Members of the Liberal this situation. Party of Cuba held a fast in solidarity with politi- Source: Juan Carlos Bueno Guerra, Martí Youth cal prisoners. Thirteen activists participated in the Coalition, Radio República. event, held at the home of Reinaldo Hernández Camagüey, April 16, 2006. The Ladies in White, Cardona, at Falgueras 413, e/ Lombillo y Pinera, El the wives, mothers, sisters and family members Cerro. of political prisoners from Camagüey, attended Source: Julia Cecilia Delgado, Reinaldo Hernández Sunday mass at the Santa Ana Church, located at Cardona, Liberal Party of Cuba. General Gómez # 400 esquina a Bembeta y Plaza Havana, April 18, 2006. Members of the Liberal de Santa Ana. The group prayed for the release of all Party of Cuba held a fast in solidarity with politi- political prisoners and prisoners of conscience. cal prisoners at the home of Héctor Julio Cedeño, Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political located at Revillagigedo #6, Habana Vieja. Thirteen prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. activists were present at the event. Camagüey, April 16, 2006. Faithful Catholics Source: Julia Cecilia Delgado, Reinaldo Hernández met at the Cathedral of Camagüey to celebrate Cardona, Liberal Party of Cuba. Easter Sunday. The ﬁ gure of the resurrected Christ Havana, April 18, 2006. Members of the Liberal exited the cathedral while children headed to the Party of Cuba held a fast in solidarity with political plaza dressed in white, smiling as they tug their col- prisoners at the home of Leonel Sánchez, located at orful balloons, and the Virgin followed. The liturgy Calle 10, Reparto Capri, 10 de octubre. Thirteen ac- took over the city and the choir sang Easter hymns tivists were present at the event. as they marched to the Plaza of the Merced where Source: Julia Cecilia Delgado, Reinaldo Hernández they released the green, yellow and red balloons Cardona, Liberal Party of Cuba. along with nearly 100 white doves to represent the Matanzas, April 18, 2006. Six members of the presence of the Holy Spirit. That afternoon, the Peace, Love and Freedom Party held a vigil for the archbishop delivered a message of love and hope. release of Cuban political prisoners at the Gustavo Source: Armando Betancourt, Barrio Adentro, Arcos Bergnes Library, which is in the home of Radio República. Eufemio Álvarez la Fe, Calle 30 e/ 25 y 33 #2524, Villa Clara, April 17, 2006. Members of the Torriente, Jagüey Grande. Nationalist Civic Movement in Santa Clara com- Source: Jorge Luís Álvarez García, Peace, Love and memorated the combatants at Playa Girón, Brigade Freedom Party, Matanzas; Alejandrina García 2506, and paid posthumous homage to the de- de la Riva, wife of political prisoner Diosdado ceased. During the event, the activists read proc- González Marrero. lamations condemning the assassination of the Camagüey, April 18, 2006. Around 7 people, in- so-called “Tractor Trailer of Death ”, during which cluding Ladies in White, family members of politi- many soldiers suffocated to death. In addition to cal prisoners and activists, gathered at the home of the organizing group’s members, activists from the Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, the wife of political pris- Marta Abreu Women’s Movement and the Christian oner Alfredo Pulido López, to say the rosary and Democratic Movement of Cuba also participated in pray for all of the political prisoners and prisoners the event. Later, they discussed other issues such as of conscience in Cuba. the growing repression against human rights activ- Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political ists in the region and the situation of political pris- prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. oners. Santiago de Cuba, April 18, 2006. Belkis Source: Idalberto González Gómez, Nationalist Cantillo, Amelia García Vega, Ana Belkis Ferrer Civic Movement. Idania Yánes Contreras, Marta García, Gerardo Miranda, Yuniel Santos de la Cruz Abreu Women’s Movement. and Norberto Díaz Peña prayed the rosary at the Havana, April 18, 2006. Wives and family mem- home of Ana Belkis Ferrer García, Calle 7 Final # bers of political prisoners gathered at the home of 318, Loma Blanca, Palmarito de Cauto. Laura Pollán, the wife of jailed independent jour- Source: Ana Belkis Ferrer García, sister of the im- nalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. The “Literary Tea” prisoned Ferrer García brothers and member of is an opportunity to share letters written by the po- the Christian Liberation Movement. litical prisoners and for the wives and family mem- Havana, April 19, 2006. The Freedom Movement bers to comment on the speciﬁ c situations of their participated in a mass held at the Santa Bárbara loved ones. Parish for prisoners, especially Cuban political pris- Source: Laura Pollán, wife of jailed independent oners and prisoners of conscience, and for those journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. freedom seekers who have disappeared.

66 EFE/Alejandro Ernesto

Czech diplomat Stanislav Kazecky (right) speaks with opposition activist Vladimiro Roca Antúnez (left) on Friday April 14, 2006, in Havana. Roca Antúnez reported to the diplomat the increase in repression and acts of repudiation unleashed throughout the country and of which he has been victim repeated times in his own home. Stanislav, whose visa was not renewed and was ordered to leave the island, was accused by the regime of carrying out “subversive” activities in Cuba. Source: Juan Francisco Humberto Guerra Jose Marti’s dream - to found a new nation with Perugorría, Freedom Movement; Anaika Paneca all the living forces it comprises, for all and for the Román, Democratic Party 30th of November good of all.” “Frank País”; Ángel De Fana Serrano, Plantados Source: Marilín Díaz Fernández, Lux Info Press, Until Freedom and Democracy in Cuba. Cubanet. Isla de Pinos, April 20, 2006. The Julio Tang Havana, April 23, 2006. The Ladies in White, Texier Cultural Civic Project screened the docu- the wives, mothers, sisters and relatives of politi- mentary, “Single Party, Single Newspaper,” pro- cal prisoners, made their weekly pilgrimage to the duced by the Cuban-Argentine exile Jorge Massetti Santa Rita Church at 5ta. Avenida y 26, Miramar. at La Demajagua, La Fe and Nueva Gerona. In total, They prayed for freedom for their imprisoned fam- 100 people viewed the 30-minute fi lm. ily members. Source: Carlos Serpa Maceira, independent Source: Laura Pollán, wife of jailed independent journalist, Lux Info Press. journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. Camagüey, April 21, 2006. Prisoner of con- Havana, April 23, 2006. Members of the Cuban science René Montes de Oca Martija, held at the Liberal Movement in Punta Brava, La Lisa, held a Cerámica Roja prison in Camagüey province, called vigil at the home of the local delegate, Silvio Benítez on Cubans to engage in refl ection in order to fi nd Márquez, Avenida 249 #4614 e/ 46 y 48, to express solutions to the grave economic, political and so- their solidarity with and support for the ongoing cial situations that confront the Cuban people. hunger strike of Guillermo Fariñas. They also par- “We raise our voices against the injustice imposed ticipated in a mass for all political prisoners and upon us by representatives of the governing leader- prisoners of conscience. More than one dozen peo- ship,” said the secretary general of the Pro-Human ple took part in the vigil. Rights Party, an affi liate organization of the Andrei Matanzas, April 23, 2006. Members of the Sakharov Foundation. In closing, he added, “We Peace, Love and Freedom Party participated in a support all civic non-violent actions to make real vigil at the San José de Colón Church to call for the PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 67 immediate release of the 75 brothers serving time Cruz. as prisoners of conscience. They prayed to all of Source: Yoel Martínez Cruz, Democratic Front for these victims and especially for Diosdado González the Freedom of Cuba, Radio República. Marrero, who is still waiting in his cell in Pinar del Havana, April 27, 2006. The Cuban Liberal Río’s Kilo 5 prison to receive the religious attention Movement issued a call to “Stop the repression” he has often requested. and called on those Cubans who have not joined the Source: Alejandrina García de la Riva, the wife resistance to “do so with the courage that charac- of Diosdado González Marrero, Peace, Love and terizes you, and those that will not, at least do not Freedom Party. collaborate with and support this bloody and totali- Camagüey, April 23, 2006. The Ladies in tarian regime.” White, the wives, mothers, sisters and family mem- Source: Alexander Santos Hernández, Cuban bers of political prisoners from Camagüey, attended Liberal Movement. Sunday mass at the Santa Ana Church, located at Cienfuegos, April 27, 2006. Ricardo Filgueira General Gómez # 400 esquina a Bembeta y Plaza Fajardo, 35, produces and hangs numerous anti- de Santa Ana. The group prayed for the release of all government signs on the walls of the Cultural House political prisoners and prisoners of conscience. located across from his home, at Calle Aponte #44, Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political e/ Avenida Libertad y Agramonte, in Aguada de prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. Pasajeros, to protest the physical aggression com- Havana, April 26, 2006. The Freedom Movement mitted against Martha Beatriz Roque Cabello. The participated in a mass held at the Santa Bárbara signs read, “Down with Fidel”, “Freedom for politi- Parish for all prisoners, especially Cuban political cal prisoners” and “Long live human rights”. prisoners, and for those freedom seekers who have Source: Luis Esteban Espinosa, Youths Without disappeared, as well as other causes. Censorship, Ciego de Ávila. Radio República. Source: Juan Francisco Humberto Guerra Guantanamo, April 27, 2006. Janet Mosquera Perugorría, Freedom Movement. Cayón was refused entry to the Parque 24 where Holguín, April 26 - 29, 2006. Activists from the her husband, the Cuban Movement of Youths for Cuban Human Rights Foundation and the Eastern Democracy activist Rolando Rodríguez Lovaina had Democratic Alliance fasted in support of hunger been unjustly detained. striking independent journalist Guillermo Fariñas She told the offi cial who stopped her that if she was Hernández and for Marta Beatriz Roque Cabello, not permitted to see her husband, she might think who had been repressed. The fast is held at the that guards had beaten him or that he was unwell Gastón Baquero Independent Library, located at and she held the guard responsible for whatever Calle Carlos Manuel de Céspedes # 2006 e/ Avenida happened to him. She said if, by Saturday – when de Cárdenas y General Marrero, in Banes. Those Rodríguez Lobaina reaches four days behind bars gathered prayed for an end to repressive activities – she has not received satisfactory news regarding on the island. Participating in the fast were: Marta her husband, she would go to the State Council in Díaz Rondón, Juan Oriol Verdecia Evora, Maikel Havana to fi le a formal complaint about the offi - Verdecia Torres, Santo Alberto Escalona Blanco, cials’ attitudes, as her husband has not committed Arnaldo Exposito Zaldivar, Nancy Rojas Feria and a crime. Andrés Peña Pérez. Source: Janet Mosquera Cayón, Radio República. Source: Marta Díaz Rondón, Lucia Iñiguez Matanzas, April 28, 2006. The Alternative Women’s Movement, Eastern Democratic Alliance, Option independent movement issued a statement Director of the Gastón Baquero Independent condemning the physical aggression committed Library. Dayamis Romero Ortiz, human rights ac- against the president of the Assembly to Promote tivist. Ahmed Rodríguez Albacia, Youths Without Civil Society in Cuba, Martha Beatriz Roque Cabello, Censorship, Radio República . in her Santa Suárez, Havana, home on April 25. Pinar del Río, April 27, 2006. A group of activ- From their headquarters in Pedro Betancourt, the ists showed their support for and solidarity with the movement members labeled the acts brutal and independent journalist and director of the Fernando intolerable, and expressed their solidarity with the Martínez Calzadilla Western Cultural Center, dur- dissident. “It is unthinkable that a lady would be ing his hearing for allegedly committing bribery. thrown to the fl oor, kicked in the stomach, dragged The group, which was prevented from entering the and elbowed in the face – all in her own home courthouse, included Manuel Rodríguez Quirós, – only because she has not supported the offi cial Eliosbel Garriga Cabrera, Adnel Herrera Padrón, ideology,” the group said. They also expressed their Alexander Ortega Martinez and Yoel Martínez unwavering support and permanent solidarity, af-

68 Activists from the Julio Tang Texier Civic Cultural Project in Isla de Pinos hold a vigil wearing t-shirts from the “Cambio” campaign, in the Model Prison of Isla de Pinos.

ﬁ rming that they will continue to work in favor of tion”, produced by Jesús Álvarez and “Freedom of democratizing the country. Expression” by Julio Romero Muñoz. Source: Oscar Sánchez Madán, Cubanet. Juan Source: Julio Romero Muñoz, Free Expression Francisco Sigler Amaya, Alternative Option Solidarity Movement. Luis Guerra Juvier, Nueva Independent Movement. Prensa Cubana. Camagüey, April 28, 2006. On the fourth an- Camagüey, April 28, 2006. The political pris- niversary of the publication of the El Camagüeyano oner José Daniel Ferrer García issued a declara- independent newsletter, independent journalist tion from his cell in Kilo 8 prison in response to Luís Guerra Javier invited members of the Free Fidel Castro’s assertion that Cuba is progressing Expression Solidarity Movement to a symbolic ac- better than ever despite the unsustainable global tivity that included the wives and family members situation. Ferrer García noted that Cuba is the only of the political prisoners. The meeting featured an country in the Western Hemisphere without free- exposition by MOSEL of “Legal and illegal emigra- dom of expression, the press, association, gathering PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 69 or protest; where misery affects the vast majority of Martínez, wife of political prisoner Luis Enrique residents; with the highest percentage of the coun- Ferrer García. Ana Belkis Ferrer Garcia, Christian try wishing to emigrate to other countries – with Liberation Movement. many willing to risk their lives in the sea in order to Las Tunas, April 29, 2006. Melba Santa Ariz, free themselves of the burdensome yolk they must the wife of prisoner of conscience Alfredo Rodolfo bear in Cuba. He said that the dictator “has always Domínguez Batista, said that a group of family said and done whatever it takes to guarantee his members and human rights defenders had begun continuance in power, regardless of the crime or a 12-hour fast. Similar activists also took place in how many times he contradicts himself. Santiago de Cuba and Palmarito de Cauto in sup- Source: José Daniel Ferrer García, Christian port of the hunger strike begun recently by Luis Liberation Movement, political prisoner. Enrique Ferrer García, Alexis Rodríguez Fernández Holguín, April 28, 2006. Citizens of Holguín and Agustín Cervantes, all three prisoners in the hung antigovernment banners after learning of their Mar Verde prison in eastern Cuba. imminent eviction from a home located at Calle Source: Luis Esteban Espinosa, Youths Without Sol #69, e/ 20 de Mayo e Independencia, Reparto Censorship. Cubanet. Juan Carlos González Leiva, Vista Alegre. The banners were hung across from Cuban Foundation for Human Rights. Radio the home of the eviction victims, on a gate facing República. Melba Santana Arís, wife of political the street, next to a Cuban ﬂ ag and two white sheets prisoner Alfredo Rodolfo Domínguez Batista. and read, “Cancel the eviction” and “Long live hu- Havana, April 30, 2006. The Ladies in White man rights”. The alarmed residents destroyed part made their weekly pilgrimage to the Santa Rita of the house. It all occurred after the municipal Church at 5ta. Avenida y 26, Miramar. They prayed housing authority informed 84-year-old Milagros for freedom for their imprisoned family members. de la Caridad Sera Rodríguez and her seven fam- Source: Laura Pollán, wife of jailed independent ily members (including two minors) that the home journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. was oversized, asserting illegal expansion under Camagüey, April 30, 2006. The Ladies in Resolution 5177 of 2005. The police arrived at the White, the wives, mothers, sisters and family mem- home, tore down the banners and accused the fam- bers of political prisoners from Camagüey, attended ily of damaging public property; and declared the Sunday mass at the Santa Ana Church, located at home “property of the state”. General Gómez # 400 esquina a Bembeta y Plaza Source: Liannis Meriño Aguilera, Youth Without de Santa Ana. The group prayed for the release of Censorship press agency. Radio República. all political prisoners. Santiago de Cuba, April 28, 2006. Political Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political prisoners Luis Enrique Ferrer García, Alexis prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. Rodríguez Fernández and Agustín Cervantes, began Holguín, April 30, 2006. Members of the Eastern a hunger strike at the Mar Verde prison in response Democratic Alliance prayed for national unity at to their unjust imprisonment, mistreatment, lack the home of Francisco Ferrer Columbié, located at of medical attention, poor food and the violation Calle Moncada #5 de Sagua de Tánamo. In atten- of their basic rights. Peña Martínez added that in a dance were Rafael Mesa Columbié, Yirina Texidor sign of support, the family members and friends of Díaz, Jesús Batista, Rubildo de la Cruz Roche, Jesús the three prisoners started a chain of fasts in Puerto Bárzaga Cordero and Raúl Torres Gómez. Padre, Santiago de Cuba. Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, Eastern Source: Luis Esteban Espinosa, Youths Without Democratic Alliance. Juan Carlos Garcell Pérez, Censorship. Radio República. Milca María Peña Eastern Free Press Agency (APLO).

70 PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 71 MAY 2006 Cienfuegos, May 1, 2006. The common prisoner Julio Romero Muñoz, Freedom of Expression Luis Cueto, held at the Provincial Prison of Ariza, Solidarity Movement. began a hunger strike after he was brutally beaten Isla de Pinos, May 2, 2006. The directors and by a fellow prisoner whom State Security guards participants of the Independent Libraries and had bribed to punish Cueto after they found anti- Julio Tang Texier and Cultural Civic Projects held establishment materials in his cell. He demanded a vigil demanding unconditional freedom for 11 in- that prison ofﬁ cials return his newspaper, corre- dependent librarians jailed by the Castro govern- spondence and literature and that they not apply ment for promoting uncensored literature in Cuba. disciplinary measures against him. Independent library directors from throughout Isla Source: Magali Broche de la Cruz, wife of political de Pinos as well as the developers of the Julio Tang prisoner Librado Linares García. Texier Cultural Civic Project attended the civic ac- Ciego de Ávila, May 1, 2006. Juan Carlos tivity, which took place at Calle 8, Escalera 2053, González Leyva, the president of the Cuban Human Apartamento 3, e/ E y F, Reparto Micro 70, Nueva Rights Foundation, received numerous calls from Gerona. “We raise our voices in solidarity with the individuals and institutions protesting the physi- imprisoned librarians José Luis Díaz Paneque, cal aggression committed against dissident Martha Ricardo González Alfonso, José Miguel Martínez Beatriz Roque Cabello. Among those expressing Hernández Rodríguez, Omar Bernet Hernández, their concerns were the president of the Marta Abreu Leonel Grave de Peralta, José Ubaldo Izquierdo Feminist Movement in Santa Clara, Villa Clara; Hernández, Fidel Suárez Cruz, Luis Milán, Víctor Liborio Apolinar Borroto Monroy of the Human Rolando Arroyo Carmona and Iván Hernández Rights Defenders in Jatibonico, Sancti Spiritus; Carrillo”, said Sergio Santacruz de Oviedo, the co- and Fidel Palacio Tomás, of the Orthodox Peoples ordinator of the Independent Library Project in Isla Party, in Camagüey. de Pinos. They lit a candle and unrolled a banner Source: Luis Esteban Espinosa, independent reading, “Freedom without exile for Cuban political journalist, Youths Without Censorship. Radio prisoners. Independent Libraries Project.” República. Those gathered also learned of new books on cir- Villa Clara, May 1, 2006. The Christian culation in Isla de Pinos, “Castro’s Hostages” and Democratic Movement of Cuba proclaimed its “Steps to Freedom 2004”. The former is a testimony solidarity with dissident Martha Beatriz Roque written by Cuban-American political exile Ernesto Cabello after the Castro regime’s mobs beat her. Díaz Rodríguez about what he and other Cubans The Christian Democratic Movement condemned have had to pay for his country’s freedom, with a these acts against nonviolent opposition and human forward by Agustín Tamargo. They heard that Steps rights activists in Cuba and called on the domestic to Freedom has encouraged Isla de Pinos residents and international public opinion to urge the Cuban and has served to spur people to read and see the government to cease these terrorist activists, not- reports and photographs in the book. ing that it is a candidate to sit on the Human Rights Source: Carlos Serpa Maceira, Lux InfoPress Commission in Geneva. The Christian Democrats Agency and Cuba-Miami Information Bridge said they oppose all violent acts against human life Independent Press Bureau. Radio República. and demand that freedom of thought be respected. Havana, May 2, 2006. A conference on a docu- Source: Argelia Quintero Benítez, Christian ment to be presented to the government and dis- Democratic Movement of Cuba. Radio República. cussed among the various components of Cuba’s Camagüey, May 1, 2006. Volume 4, Issue 26 of opposition movement was held at the Pedro Luis El Camagüeyano was published featuring articles Boitel Independent Library, located at Calle Atlanta of the arrest of independent journalist Armando #322, e/ Alegría y Sanguily, Reparto Gavilán. Those Betancourt Reina and on freedom of the press, a present discussed issues relating to human rights report on the environment, opinion columns, com- and the responsibilities of schoolchildren, the en- plaints and a special report on the third anniver- vironment and ecology, and the ethics of politics sary of the death of Camagüey’s bishop, Monseñor in Cuban society. As a result of this meeting, the Adolfo Rodríguez Herrera. document is drafted and prepared for submission Source: Luis Guerra Juvier, Nueva Prensa Cubana; to Cuba’s government authorities at each munici-

72 pal offi ce. Among the dissidents participating in that the authorities are trained only to mistreat and the conference were Roberto Miranda Díaz, public despise their fellow man. He told Castro to speak no relations offi cer for the Cuban Liberal Movement; more of ending prison abuses abroad but rather to Orlando Fundora Álvarez, president of the Pedro put a stop to the abuse and mistreatment that takes Luis Boitel Political Prisoner Association; and place in Cuban jails. Arturo Quesada Ortega, director of the library. Source: Iván Hernández Carrillo, El Pre provincial Both Elizardo Sánchez Santacruz, of the National juvenile prison, Santa Clara. Radio República. Commission for Human Rights and Reconciliation, Guantánamo, May 3, 2006. During the morn- and León Padrón Azcuy, of the Cuban Liberal ing, 38-year-old Oscar Savón Pantoja hung a sign Movement, joined the conference via telephone. on his door that read, “Justice for the mutilated vet- Source: Leonel Alberto Pérez Belette, Cubanet. erans of the war in Angola”. Savón Pantoja lives at 3 Isla de Pinos, May 3, 2006. The Isla de Pinos oeste, e/ Calle Paseo y Uno Norte, in Guantánamo. Foundation for Human Rights and Territorial He said he hung the sign because the government Development, the Martí Youth Coalition and the provides no assistance to his brother, Víctor Savón Independent Libraries Project met at the home Pantoja, who was sent to Africa on military mis- of the foundation’s president to celebrate that sions and returned to Cuba suffering severe men- organization’s fi fth anniversary as well as World tal trauma. In the 13 years since he returned from Press Freedom Day. They circulated copies of “Steps war, local authorities have not provided any social to Freedom” and “The Power of Nonviolence” and or economic assistance. read articles from the Declaration on Human Rights Source: Leonor Padilla Navarro, Cuban Movement and the philosophical musings of José Martí. They of Youths for Democracy. Radio República. issued a call for nonviolence. Twenty-eight activists Havana, May 4, 2006. The Cuban Liberal took part in the three-hour event, during which Movement announced that violent acts against de- they also discussed the creation of a bulletin on mocracy activists have intensifi ed in the past year dissidence in Isla de Pinos. throughout the island, making particular note of Source: Carlos Serpa Maceira, Lux InfoPress the April 25 attack against Martha Beatriz Roque Agency and Cuba-Miami Information Bridge Cabello. The Cuban Liberal Movement once again Independent Press Bureau. Radio República. demanded that the Cuban Communist Party and its Havana, May 3, 2006. The Freedom Movement repressive mechanisms understand that the Cuba participated in a mass held at the Santa Bárbara to come will be greater than the current situation of Parish, for prisoners, especially Cuban political the country, which has been kidnapped by a single prisoners, and prisoners of conscience, and for individual. those freedom seekers who have disappeared. Source: León Padrón Azcuy, Cuban Liberal Source: Juan Francisco Humberto Guerra Movement. Radio República. Perugorría, Freedom Movement; Anaika Paneca Villa Clara, May 4, 2006. Members of the Marta Román, Democratic Party 30th of November Abreu Feminist Movement handed out alternative “Frank País”; Ángel De Fana Serrano, Plantados literature on the streets of Santa Clara. Passersby Until Freedom and Democracy in Cuba. expressed interest in the literature discussing hu- Havana, May 3, 2006. Ana Aguililla Saladrigas, man rights and the opposition movement in Cuba. the wife of political prisoner Francisco Chaviano Source: Idania Yánes Contreras, Marta Abreu González, delivered a letter to the Offi ce of the Women’s Movement. General Director of Jails and Prisons advocating for Sancti Spíritus, May 4, 2006. Signs bearing the the release of her husband. The letter was signed word, “Change” appeared throughout the Caracusey by human rights activists, including members of the community in the Sierra del Escambray neighbor- Ladies in White and the Leonor Pérez Committee of hood in Fomento. The 50 by 50 centimeters signs the Mothers of Political Prisoners. were placed on the hillside visible to those enter- Source: Ana Aguililla Saladrigas, Leonor Pérez ing the community. When authorities learned of Committee of the Mothers of Political Prisoners; the signs, they removed and confi scated them, but Laura Pollán Toledo, Ladies in White. only after many people traveling by foot or in pub- Matanzas, May 3, 2006. Asunción Carrillo, lic transportation, had already seen them. The word the mother of political prisoner Iván Hernández “Change” is used frequently among those in the Carrillo, who was arrested during the Black Spring opposition movement to demand that the regime of Cuba, made public a letter from her son to Fidel make democraticchanges in the country. Castro that describes, among other things, the sa- Source: Hugo Araña, Cubanet. distic and perverse acts that take place in prison and Camagüey, May 4, 2006. Ernesto Corría walked

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 73 along the main throughway, Calle Independencia, home of independent librarian Marlene Bermúdez wearing a T-shirt and a bracelet bearing the word, Sardinas, Calle 4ta. Paralela #583, Reparto Florá. “Change”. All the while, the nonviolent peace ac- The activity went late into the afternoon and in- tivist pushed a handicapped individual in a wheel- volved a group of 11 women and 15 men. They paid chair. homage to Jacqueline Montes de Oca of Havana, Source: Armando Betancourt, Barrio Adentro. and Emilia León, Ana López and other mothers Radio República. from Camagüey. Marlene Bermúdez said she was Pinar del Río, May 5, 2006. Members of various satisfi ed with the event but sad about the registra- opposition organizations met at the headquarters of tion and decommissioning of her library, which oc- the Melinda Gates Democratic Foundation to con- curred yesterday and ended with the arrest of her demn the aggression of Cuban authorities against husband, Roberto Marrero La Rosa. Jacqueline nonviolent dissidents. Over the past few days, vari- Montes de Oca, the sister of political prisoner ous members of the opposition movement within René Montes de Oca, said that she was pleased to Cuba have, while in their homes, been victims of be supporting Marlene because, despite Roberto’s physical and verbal aggressions by the political arrest, they will continue with their activities. Two police or groups of individuals identifi ed with the men expressed their respect and admiration for the government. Roberto Estrella Salas, in the name of mothers of Cuba and the entire group prepared a the dissidents and opposition members who suf- gift card for Martha Beatriz Roque Cabello. Arisbel fered the attacks., denounced these assaults, to the Hernández read aloud the letter that will be person- international community. Among those present at ally delivered to Roque Cabello. the meeting were members of Racial Integration Source: Armando Betancourt, Barrio Adentro. Movement, the Bicycle-Taxi Independent Union, Radio República. the Independent Libraries Project, the Latin Holguín, May 7, 2006. Members of the Liberal American Federation of Rural Women (FLAMUR) Party of Cuba, the Claridad Human Rights and the Women’s Democratic Front. Movement and the Eastern Democratic Alliance Source: Rafael Ferro, Abdala Press. celebrated mass at the San Isidoro Catholic Church. Cienfuegos, May 5, 2006. The provincial del- The 22 activists participating in the service prayed egations of the Cuban Liberal Party from Villa for all political prisoners, for the health of the hun- Clara and Cienfuegos held a fraternal meeting in ger striking dissident Guillermo Fariñas Hernández, Cienfuegos to coordinate the party’s work in cen- for Héctor Maseda, for the recovery of all who are in tral Cuba. Delegates Alejandro Tur Valladares and poor health and for an end to acts of violence com- Bernardo Luis Ascanio Camargo reached working mitted against human rights activists in the coun- agreements during the meeting. try. Source: Idania Yanes Contreras, Marta Abreu Source: Liannis Meriño Aguilera, Youths Without Women’s Movement and Yuniesky García López, Censorship, Radio República . Eliécer Consuegra Liberal Party of Cuba. Rivas, Eastern Democratic Alliance. Juan Carlos Havana, May 7, 2006. The Ladies in White, Garcell Pérez, Eastern Free Press Agency. the wives, mothers, sisters and relatives of politi- Havana, May 8, 2006. A group of 25 opposition cal prisoners, made their weekly pilgrimage to the activists held a vigil in tribute of the 105 martyrs of Santa Rita Church at 5ta. Avenida y 26, Miramar. the 2506th Brigade, who fell while defending free- They prayed for freedom for their imprisoned fam- dom and democracy in Cuba in 1961 on the Girón ily members. Beach. The public protest was held at the Ronald Source: Laura Pollán, wife of jailed independent Reagan Independent Library, located at Puerta journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. Cerrada #417, altos, e/ Figuras y Chamorro, in Camagüey, May 7, 2006. The Ladies in White, Habana Vieja. After singing the national anthem, the wives, mothers, sisters and family members they observed a moment of silence and a reading of political prisoners from Camagüey, attended of the names of the fallen. The opposition activists Sunday mass at the Santa Ana Church, located at in attendance, wearing white shirts emblazoned General Gómez # 400 esquina a Bembeta y Plaza with the word, “Change”, lit candles, unfurled the de Santa Ana. The group prayed for the release of all national fl ag and banners that read, “Glory to the political prisoners and prisoners of conscience. martyrs of the 2506th Brigade” and “Long Live the Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political 2506th”, as well as the Brigade’s coat of arms. prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. Source: Carlos Serpa Maceira, Luz Info Press in- Camagüey, May 7, 2006. Members of the op- dependent press agency, Radio República. position movement celebrated Mothers’ Day at the Havana, May 8, 2006. Lady in White Dolia

74 Leal Francisco wrote a letter to Fidel Castro and Havana, May 10, 2006. Dissident Oswaldo Payá delivered it to the Council of State to be passed to Sardiñas, promoter of the Varela Project, and two him. But when she arrived, no one attended her of his associates, held a press conference to discuss and she left without delivering the letter. The let- the project for change proposed to the government ter explained that she was the wife of prisoner of that includes the release of political prisoners and a conscience Nelson Aguiar Ramírez—in various call for dialogue. The project of political openness other letters, she has requested conditional release is explained in the document, “Common Base, Path for her husband due to his serious health problems. and Hope for Cuba,” which was produced over the “This terrifying problem is in your hands; do not let course of two months with the support of dozens of my husband die,” she wrote. dissident groups, Payá said. Source: Dolia Leal Francisco, Vedado, Ciudad de Source: EFE La Habana. Havana, May 10, 2006. The Assembly to Havana, May 8, 2006. Artist Ilei de Jesús Urrutia Promote Civil Society in Cuba signed a declaration Álvarez sent a public letter to the artists of the world protesting the human rights violations commit- denouncing the harassment he has suffered for not ted against activist Martha Beatriz Roque Cabello, capitulating to the ofﬁ cial dogma of the Cuban re- who was brutally attacked. The Assembly members gime. “I do not feel that I owe anything to any gov- called on their brothers in exile and the organiza- ernment, for I owe nobody for my humble talent,” tions that represent them to launch an international he wrote. He also declared his right to continue be- campaign to nominate Roque Cabello for the Nobel ing an artist. Peace Prize. Source: Gladys Linares, Women’s Humanitarian Source: Assembly to Promote Civil Society in Cuba. Front. Ilei de Jesús Urrutia Álvarez. Radio República. Villa Clara, May 8, 2006. Different organiza- Villa Clara, May 10, 2006. The Marta Abreu tions held an all-night vigil to pray for the health Women’s Movement and the Maceo Movement for of Guillermo Fariñas Hernández, who had pneu- Dignity passed out alternative literature and mate- mothorax surgery and was in serious condition. rials in Santa Clara. “We are with you,” many people The vigil took place at the home of Idania Yánes told them as they quickly received the plastic brace- Contreras, at Prolongación de Marta Abreu #93 C, lets, T-shirts and packets of literature inscribed with e/ B y C, Santa Clara the word “Change” outside of the 20 Aniversario Source: Idania Yánes Contreras, Marta Abreu Medical Clinic on the corner of Calle Amparo and Women’s Movement. Terminal Intermunicipal. Passersbys eagerly ac- Granma, May 8, 2006. The members of the cepted copies of books including The Power of The Assembly to Promote Civil Society in Manzanillo Powerless and the Universal Declaration of Human issued a public accusation against the government Rights. Some even fought over the white balloons. of Cuba and Fidel Castro, for the physical beating Opposition movement organizers have held many of opposition leader Martha Beatriz Roque Cabello. similar handouts throughout the province of Villa The statement had the support of the Assembly Clara. to Promote Civil Society, with the following si- Source: Noelia Pedraza Jiménez, Marta Abreu gnors: Tania de la Torre Montesinos, Lázaro Vidal Women’s Movement. Radio República. García, Xiomara Moncada Almaguer, Nelson Reyes Camagüey, May 10, 2006. A group of political Tamayo, Aracelia Grenes, Leonardo Carlos Santana, prisoners at the Cerámica Roja prison issued a pub- Alberto Moreno Fonseca, María del Carmen Videu lic letter of protest addressed to both national and and Enrique Diéguez Segura. international public opinion, international organi- Source: Tania de la Torre Montesinos, Radio zations and those in exile. In the letter, Francisco República. Pacheco Espinosa, Jorge Luis Suárez Varona, Havana, May 10, 2006. The Freedom Movement Elizardo Calvo Hernández and José Agramonte participated in a mass held at the Santa Bárbara Leyva denounced the horrid living conditions in Parish for prisoners, especially Cuban political pris- which they are kept, the shortage of medicine, the oners, and for those freedom seekers who have dis- lack of medical assistance, poorly prepared food appeared. and the despotic attitude of the jailers. Source: Juan Francisco Humberto Guerra Source: Armando Betancourt, Barrio Adentro. Perugorría, Freedom Movement; Anaika Paneca Radio República. Román, Democratic Party 30th of November Camagüey, May 10, 2006. José Daniel Ferrer “Frank País”; Ángel De Fana Serrano, Plantados García, an inmate at the Kilo 8 prison in Camagüey, Until Freedom and Democracy in Cuba. told the Cuban Human Rights Foundation that pris-

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 75 EFE

Oswaldo Payá Sardiñas (center), promoter of the Varela Project, together with two of his colleagues, holds a press conference on Wednesday, May 10, in Havana to announce a project for change proposed to the government of the island, which calls for the release of political prisoners and for dialogue. The project for political opening is taken up in a document entitled “Common ground, way and hope for Cuba”. Payá explained that this document was put together over a period of two months with contributions from dozens of opposition organizations. on authorities have announced new food restrictions Foundation for Human Rights. Radio República. and that the prisoners are no longer permitted to Villa Clara, May 11, 2006. Prisoners of conscience take prepared food to their cells. The inmates began at the La Pendiente provincial prison in Villa Clara to protest, complaining that the only quality food presented an international declaration addressed to they receive is when their families come to visit and the new Council on Human Rights based in Geneva, that the prison food is of horrible quality and too Switzerland. In it, Raúl Martínez Prieto and Léster limited in quantity. As the protest erupted, guards González Pentón declared their opposition to the arrived to stop it through intimidation and force, Cuban government’s new decision to be a member as the inmates shouted “Down with abuse”, “Down of the new Council on Human Rights. “It would be a with communism”, and “Down with Fidel”. Ferrer disgrace for the Communist dictator and murderer García said that he shouted these complaints very Fidel Castro to serve as a member of the new and loudly and that the guards pulled him from his cell, prestigious human rights organization. For the and took him to Téllez, the section chief, in order council to permit this would be paramount to to beat him but were stopped when other prisoners becoming an accomplice to the crimes, torture and came to his aid. This stopped the guards momen- violations that the dictator has committed over the tarily while the inmates led Ferrer García back to past 47 years,” they said. his cell. The authorities later said that it was all a big Source: Raúl Martínez Prieto and Lester González confusion and that what will not be permitted is an Penton. Radio República. increase in prepared food. Havana, May 12, 2006. The Martí Current made Source: Juan Carlos González Leiva, Cuban public a message recording the suffering of Cuban

76 mothers. “The mothers of the entire world, and in fenses committed against different prisoners, say- particular the Cubans, have suffered too much. This ing that beatings are everyday events condoned by day is dedicated to them, and the only gift we can prison and provincial authorities as well as the State give them is to shout at the top of our lungs and Council. He complained of the poor medical treat- ﬁ ght with all our energy against the wars that are ment afforded to prisoners and about the lives that killing their children; the terrorism that is killing have been lost as a result of negligence and the lack their innocent children; the mechanisms of evasion of security. The letter was delivered by the prison- that degrade them; the violations of their human er’s daughter, Sahilí Navarro Álvarez, who lives at rights; discrimination; political imprisonment; and Calle Peatonal #6, Reparto Las Canteras, Perico. the violence that hurts all families. Source: Félix Navarro Rodríguez, Las Mangas Source: José Leonardo Rodríguez Vald és, provincial prison, Bayamo, Unit 6, Ward 8. Sahilí promoter, The Martí Current. Radio República. Navarro Álvarez, Radio República. Havana, May 12, 2006. The Ladies in White Havana, May 14, 2006. The Ladies in White, celebrated Mothers’ Day by marching, as they do the wives, mothers, sisters and relatives of politi- every Sunday and other important dates, through cal prisoners, made their weekly pilgrimage to the the streets of the capital to demand the release of Santa Rita Church at 5ta. Avenida y 26, Miramar. political prisoners. There, they prayed for the political prisoners to be Source: EFE. Laura Pollán, Lady in White and wife released. of jailed independent journalist Héctor Maseda Source: Laura Pollán, wife of jailed independent Gutiérrez. journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. Berta Soler Holguín, May 13, 2006. Members of the Eastern Fernández, wife of imprisoned opposition leader Democratic Alliance held an opening ceremony for Angel Moya Acosta. the week of honor for martyr Pedro Luis Boitel and Camagüey, May 14, 2006. The Ladies in White, for the release of political prisoners. The ceremo- the wives, mothers, sisters and family members ny was held at the home of activist Felipe Disnay of political prisoners from Camagüey, attended Ramos Leiva, who lives at Calle 1ra #19, Reparto Sunday mass at the Santa Ana Church, located at Joselillo in Moa. Omar Wilson Estévez, Silverio General Gómez # 400 esquina a Bembeta y Plaza Herrera Acosta, Héctor Silót Rueda, Omar Pérez de Santa Ana. The group prayed for the release of Torres, Osiel Olivares Tito, Martín Ruiz González, all political prisoners. Felipe del Rosario and Francisco Hernández Gómez Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political all participated in the event. prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, Eastern Cienfuegos, May 15, 2006. A representative of Democratic Alliance. Juan Carlos Garcell Pérez, the National Board of Directors of the Liberal Party Eastern Free Press Agency. of Cuba visited its Cienfuegos delegation to give a Holguín, May 13, 2006. The chief of security at presentation to members on the ways to use and the Kilo 8 prison threatened political prisoners Luis disseminate information in seminars that the party Díaz Fernández and Lamberto Hernández Planas organizes. with ﬁ ling a formal accusation or punishing them Source: Julia Cecilia Delgado, Reinaldo Hernández for misbehavior after the pair shouted antigovern- Cardona, Liberal Party of Cuba. ment slogans during the course of the day in honor Havana, May 15, 2006. Members of the Julio of Pedro Luis Boitel, the political prisoner who died Tang Texier Cultural Civic Project put together in 1972 while on a hunger strike. Carlos Luis Díaz a book of condolences to mark the death of for- was transferred to a punishment cell for energeti- mer political prisoner Eusebio Peñalver Mazorra. cally protesting the installation of a loudspeaker Among those who signed the book were two mem- next to his cell while Juan Carlos Herrera, an inde- bers of the Group of 75 prisoners of conscience, pendent journalist and political prisoner held there out on conditional release for health reasons, denounced the terrible conditions that political and Roberto de Miranda Hernández and Carmelo Díaz common prisoners share at Kilo 8. Fernández. Other signors included: Lady in White Source: Liannis Meriño Aguilera, independent Soledad Rivas Verdecia, the national executive journalist, Youths Without Censorship, Cubanet. board of the Committee to Support the Dissidence Granma, May 13, 2006. Political prisoner Félix Brigade 2506 (CAD-2506), as well as former politi- Navarro Rodríguez sent a letter from his cell in the cal prisoners and activists with groups such as the Las Mangas provincial prison in Bayamo to Cuba’s Isla de Pinos Foundation for Human Rights and assistant attorney general, Rafael Pino Bécquer. Territorial Development, Julio Tang Texier Cultural In the letter, Navarro Rodríguez described the of- Civic Project, and the Cuba National Commission.

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 77 The book of condolences begins with a dedication, Pinar del Río, May 18, 2006. Prisoner of con- “Eusebio Peñalver Mazorra was an indefatigable science Orlando Zapata Tamayo, behind bars at fi ghter for freedom and democracy in Cuba; to the Taco Taco prison, declared a hunger strike and quote José Martí, ‘All honorable men can account shouted antigovernment slogans in response to the for their actions.’ He always wrote with capital let- mistreatment and torture he has suffered over the ters the Freedom of Cuba. Until his death he main- past few days. tained his ideals and his lasting legacy is manifest in Source: Ahmed Rodríguez Albacia, Youths Without all those who struggle with dignity for the Freedom Censorship. of Cuba.” Havana, May 18, 2006. Members of the Liberal Source: Carlos Serpa Maceira, Sindical Press and Party of Cuba held a fast in solidarity with politi- the director of the Cuba-Miami Information Bridge cal prisoners. Thirteen activists participated in the press bureau. event, held at the home of Reinaldo Hernández Las Tunas, May 16, 2006. The wife of political Cardona, at Falgueras 413, e/ Lombillo y Pinera, El prisoner Luis Enrique Ferrer García announced a Cerro. fast to protest her husband’s condition. The fast, Source: Julia Cecilia Delgado, Reinaldo Hernández which took place at her home at Circuito Norte Cardona, Liberal Party of Cuba. #88C in Puerto Padre included the participation of Havana, May 18, 2006. Members of the Liberal the following members of the nonviolent opposi- Party of Cuba held a fast in solidarity with political tion movement: Milka María Peña Martínez, Rosa prisoners at the home of Héctor Julio Cedeño, Martínez Urquiza, Ezequiel Morales Carmenate, located at Revillagigedo #6, Habana Vieja. Thirteen Melba Santana Arís, Filia Correoso Pérez, Ramón activists were present at the event. García Correoso, Ramón Bornó Guerrero, Rigoberto Source: Julia Cecilia Delgado, Reinaldo Hernández Hernández González, Maidelín Guerrero Peña, Cardona, Liberal Party of Cuba. Pablo Salazar Fonseca, and others. Simultaneous Havana, May 18, 2006. Members of the Liberal fasts also took place in Puerto Padre, Palmarito de Party of Cuba held a fast in solidarity with political Cauto and Santiago de Cuba. prisoners at the home of Leonel Sánchez, located Source: Milka Peña Martínez, Radio República. at Calle 10, Reparto Capri, 10 de Octubre. Thirteen Havana, May 17, 2006. The Freedom Movement activists took part in the event. participated in a mass held at the Santa Bárbara Source: Julia Cecilia Delgado, Reinaldo Hernández Parish for prisoners, especially Cuban political pris- Cardona, Liberal Party of Cuba. oners, prisoners of conscience and for those free- Havana, May 18, 2006. Wives and family dom seekers who have disappeared. members of political prisoners gathered at the Source: Juan Francisco Humberto Guerra home of Laura Pollán, the wife of jailed independent Perugorría, Freedom Movement; Anaika Paneca journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. The “Literary Román, Democratic Party 30th of November Tea” is an opportunity to share letters written by “Frank País”; Ángel De Fana Serrano, Plantados the political prisoners and for the wives and family Until Freedom and Democracy in Cuba. members to comment on the specifi c situations of Santiago de Cuba, May 17, 2006. Family mem- their loved ones. bers of political prisoners Luis Enrique Ferrer Source: Laura Pollán, wife of jailed independent García, Alexis Rodríguez Fernández and Agustín journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. Cervantes García, all three members of the Christian Havana, May 18, 2006. Members of the Liberation Movement and leaders of the Varela Democratic Party 30th of November “Frank País” Project, sent a letter to the Provincial Offi ce of the met at the home of the organization’s acting Attorney General, denouncing the Castro govern- president Anaica Paneca Román to hold a meeting ment and State Security for whatever may happen arranged to discuss the situation of Cuba’s political to the trio. Amelia García Vega, Mirta María Pena prisoner, arbitrarily detained and kept in subhuman Martínez, Ana Belkis García and Luisa Maria Lebete conditions. The group also remembered the life of Giral signed the document. They wrote that the po- Pedro Luis Boitel, who died in prison in 1972 while litical prisoners are on a hunger strike since April on hunger strike. Humberto Guerra Perugorría, the 28 to protest the violations committed against them president of the Freedom Movement, joined party on a daily basis. After 3 months and 17 days, they members Raiza Martínez Llerena, René Sánchez were sent to punishment cells and Ferrer García to Cargo, Joel Díaz Soroa Juana Román, Anaica the Boniato prison hospital. Paneca, Sergio Langazuri and Humberto Guerra Source: Liannis Meriño Aguilera, Youths Without Perugorría at the home of Paneca Román, Calle Censorship, Radio República . 12 #14619 e/ 3ra y 5ta, Diezmero, San Miguel del

78 Activists hold a vigil in tribute to the martyrs of Brigade 2506 in the Ronald Reagan Independent Library in the City of Havana. Padrón, Ciudad de La Habana. González Marrero. Source: Raiza Martínez, Democratic Party 30th of Matanzas, May 18, 2006. Six members of the November “Frank País”, Havana. Peace, Love and Freedom Party held a vigil to com- Matanzas, May 18, 2006. Nine members of memorate the arrests and sentences of the Group of the Peace, Love and Freedom Party held a vigil 75 at the home of Ramón Verdecia, at Calle Maceo to commemorate the arrests and sentences of the 104, in Colón. Group of 75 at the home of Andrés Govea Suárez, Source: Jorge Luís Álvarez García, Peace, Love and located at Calle Libertad 41 e/ 3 y San Antonio, Freedom Party, Matanzas; Alejandrina García Guareira. de la Riva, wife of political prisoner Diosdado Source: Jorge Luís Álvarez García, Peace, Love and González Marrero. Freedom Party, Matanzas; Alejandrina García Matanzas, May 18, 2006. Six members of the de la Riva, wife of political prisoner Diosdado Peace, Love and Freedom Party held a vigil for the González Marrero. release of Cuban political prisoners at the Gustavo Matanzas, May 18, 2006. Fifteen members Arcos Bergnes Library, which is in the home of of the Peace, Love and Freedom Party held a vigil Eufemio Álvarez la Fe, Calle 30 e/ 25 y 33 #2524, to commemorate the arrests and sentences of the Torriente, Jagüey Grande. Group of 75 at the home of Raymundo de Toro, at Source: Jorge Luís Álvarez García, Peace, Love and Calle #11 #5421 e/ 54 y 56, Jagüey Grande. Freedom Party, Matanzas; Alejandrina García Source: Jorge Luís Álvarez García, Peace, Love and de la Riva, wife of political prisoner Diosdado Freedom Party, Matanzas; Alejandrina García González Marrero. de la Riva, wife of political prisoner Diosdado Camagüey, May 18, 2006. Around 7 people, in-

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 79 cluding Ladies in White, family members of politi- Love and Freedom Party took part in the morn- cal prisoners and activists, gathered at the home of ing event while members of State Security and the Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, the wife of political pris- Communist Party besieged the library. oner Alfredo Pulido López, to say the rosary and Source: Belkis Tellechea Chávez, Peace, Love and pray for all of the political prisoners and prisoners Freedom Party. Radio República. of conscience in Cuba. Villa Clara, May 19, 2006. Members of the Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political Maceo Movement for Dignity, the Marta Abreu prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. Women’s Movement and the Liberal Party partic- Holguín, May 18, 2006. Activists from the Antilla ipated in a climb up Escambray Mountain to cel- municipality commemorated the fi rst anniversary ebrate the anniversary of the Assembly to Promote of the strong response to the violent acts committed Civil Society in Cuba. At the base of the mountain, by the political police against human rights activists they placed a fl oral offering on the bust of José on May 12, 2005. According to Eastern Democratic Martí in the Manicaragua Central Park. Once at Alliance President Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, the the summit, known as El Sijú, the group sang the group followed up the event by visiting the home national anthem, released balloons inscribed with of the attorney Giordana Varela Fundichelli, wife of the word “Change” and remembered the historical political prisoner Duilián Ramirez Ballester, to show signifi cance of the date. They took photos and left a their support for her and protest her husband’s un- sign reading “Change” atop the mountain. Nearby, just imprisonment. Consuegra Rivas added that they they held a vigil at the headquarters of the Sajarov are once again offering their unconditional support Movement, located on the Central Highway in for Ramirez Ballestar and his family, even though Ranchuelo. They prayed for the health of Guillermo he is being held at the Cuba Sí prison, one of the Fariñas Hernández, the former political prisoner country’s cruelest correctional facilities. Ramirez and independent journalist who is on an extend- Ballestar continues his unwavering position against ed hunger strike, as well as for the life of Martha the Cuban regime and the people of Antilla remem- Beatriz Roque Cabello, who was brutally attacked ber him as one of their most dignifi ed sons. by government mobs recently. They discussed the Source: Liannis Meriño Aguilera, Youth Without impact of the regime on the situation of the political Censorship Press Agency. Radio República. prisoners and prayed for the release of all political Santiago de Cuba, May 18, 2006. Belkis prisoners. Cantillo, Amelia García Vega, Ana Belkis Ferrer The events took place thanks to the bravery of the García, Gerardo Miranda, Yuniel Santos de la Cruz participants, some of who had been threatened and Norberto Díaz Peña prayed the rosary at the with arrest. Those taking part were Noelia Pedraza home of Ana Belkis Ferrer García, Calle 7 Final Jiménez and Idania Yanes Contreras of the Marta #318, Loma Blanca, Palmarito de Cauto. Abreu Women’s Movement; Luís Aragón García, Source: Ana Belkis Ferrer García, sister of the Roque Emilio Martínez Angulo of the Maceo imprisoned Ferrer García brothers and member of Movement for Dignity; Yuniesky García López, the Christian Liberation Movement. Bernardo Luís Ascano Camargo and Rolando García Matanzas, May 19, 2006. Members of the Peace, Casadebal of the Liberal Party of Cuba. Love and Freedom Party laid a fl oral offering at the Source: Idania Yánes Contreras, Marta Abreu base of the bust of José Martí, located on the cen- Women’s Movement. Idalberto González Gómez, tral highway in Colón. Jorge Luís Alvarez García, Maceo Movement for Dignity. Yuniesky García Rolando Wang Cepero, Andrés Govea Suárez, Tania López, Liberal Party of Cuba. Noelia Pedraza Morejón, Belkis Tellechea, Marlene Guerra, Anya Jiménez, Marta Abreu Women’s Movement, Radio Vázquez Chávez, Ivan Mendez Mirabal, Yordanis República. Martinez and Alejandrina García de la Rivas took Villa Clara, May 19, 2006. A large group of part in the event. activists from central Cuba met to remember the Source: Jorge Luís Álvarez García, Peace, Love and battlefi eld death of Cuban independence hero José Freedom Party, Matanzas; Alejandrina García Martí. Among the organizations represented were de la Riva, wife of political prisoner Diosdado the Cuban Nationalist Civic Movement, the Pro- González Marrero. Human Rights Party, an affi liate organization of Matanzas, May 19, 2006. The 19 de Mayo the Andrei Sajarov Foundation, the Independent Independent Library was inaugurated in the Democratic Front and Plantados Until Freedom and Torrientes neighborhood in Jagüey Grande as Democracy in Cuba. They met at the headquarters part of the activities commemorating Cuban of the Nationalist Civic Movement, Calle 6ta. No. Independence Day. Eight members of the Peace, 16, e/ 3ra. y Carretera a Sagua, Reparto Camacho,

80 Santa Clara. Freedom Project, commemorated the 111th anniver- Source: Idalberto González Gómez, Nationalist sary of the battlefi eld death of Cuban apostle José Civic Movement. Martí. They peacefully marched in silence, carrying Holguín, May 19, 2006. The Eastern Democratic fl owers in their hands, to the bust of Martí where Alliance issued a message paying tribute to the they laid the fl owers and sang the national anthem. Cuban apostle, José Martí, in commemoration Flowers were also laid in the San Rafael Cemetery of his death. “The Cuban people and the defend- chapel, in Colón, where the remains of those killed ers of human rights will not waver in standing up in battle lay. The Party vowed to continue using to totalitarian repression,” said Eliécer Consuegra nonviolent means to work toward democracy. Rivas, the president of the organization. “Those Source: Ania Vázquez Chávez, Peace, Love and who oppose the regime and those who defend hu- Freedom Party. Radio República. man rights are willing to be nailed to the cross, all Villa Clara, May 20, 2006. The Marta Abreu for Cuban liberty.” Women’s Movement handed out alternative litera- Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, Eastern ture to the public in a Santa Clara street. Standing Democratic Alliance, Radio República. near the interurban bus terminal and post offi ce in Holguín, May 19, 2006. The Eastern Democratic Reparto Virgina, the women passed out the book Alliance announced its support for the statement is- Open Eyes, copies of the Declaration on Human sued by Martha Beatriz Roque Cabello in the docu- Rights and buttons bearing the word, “Change”. ment, “Three Steps to Freedom”, and affi rmed that The recipients thanked them with gestures and they will not back down until the freedom of the words while eagerly accepting all of the information homeland is achieved. As Major General Calixto provided. The idea to hand out literature was part García would say, “Free forever or forever fi ghting of a series of activities planned by the Movement to to be free.” commemorate Cuban independence as well as the Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, Eastern fi rst anniversary of the Assembly to Promote Civil Democratic Alliance. Radio República. Society in Cuba. Holguín, May 19, 2006. Political prisoners at Source: Ahmed Rodríguez Albacia, Youths Without Mayarí’s Playa Manteca prison began publishing a Censorship. Radio República. monthly newsletter titled, “La Voz” (“The Voice”), Sancti Spiritus, May 20, 2006. Activists from rudimentarily published in the jail to denounce hu- the Democratic Party 30th of November “Frank man rights violations. The newsletter is printed by País” held an activity to commemorate Cuba’s political prisoners Fidel García Roldán, Elio Terrero Independence Day. They compared the situation in Gómez, Leandro Suárez Sabot, Digzán Ramírez the time of the independence movement to what the Ballester and Carlos Miguel López Santos. Cuban people suffer today. They remembered the Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, Eastern bravery of heroes such as Antonio Maceo, Carlos Democratic Alliance. Fidel García Roldán, politi- Manuel de Céspedes, Frank País and others who, in cal prisoner. the course of Cuban history, have upheld the public Santiago de Cuba, May 19, 2006. About 20 trust and fought for freedom. They also recalled the members of the Cuban Movement of Youths for non-governmental organizations that are perform- Democracy met at the home of Zoila Echevarria ing valuable work in the community, including the Gutiérrez, Edifi cio 21, Escalera 3, Apto. 4, Reparto Assembly to Promote Civil Society in Cuba and the Rajayoga, to take part in the “Martí in 21st Century Pedro Luis Boitel Association of Political Prisoners. Cuba” conference, offered by the organization’s They closed with the national anthem. Participating president, Néstor Rodríguez Lobaina. in the event were Edel Peralta Rouge, Elvis Gregorio Source: Néstor Rodríguez Lobaina, Cuban Pérez Lara, Erin Mena Lara, Bienvenido Perdigón Movement of Youth for Democracy. Pacheco, Julio César Menéndez Rodríguez, José Pinar del Río, May 20, 2006. The Máximo Andrés Guerra Castañeda, Ana Margarita Perdigón Gómez Báez Civic Movement organized an Brito, Reymundo Perdigón Brito, George Perdigón Independence Day activity that drew 18 people to Brito, Yuliesky Ortega Tejeda, Yaimy Perdigón the home of activist Francisco Valle Pérez, Calle 26 Simón, Paula Bartola Hurtado Lara and Adriano de Julio #9, Pinar del Río. Castañeda Meneses. Source: Mario Izquierdo Sotolongo, Máximo Source: Ana Margarita Perdigón Brito, Democratic Gómez Báez Civic Movement. Party 30th of November “Frank País”. National Matanzas, May 20, 2006. A group of women Movement of Civic Resistance “Pedro Luis Boitel”. from the Peace, Love and Freedom Party, as well as Holguín, May 20, 2006. Activists from the some of the participants in the Join Up, Women for Cuban Human Rights Foundation and the Eastern

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 81 The Ladies in White prayed for the immediate freedom of their loved ones and all Cuban political prisoners on May 22, feast day of Saint Rita of Casia, at Saint Rita Church in Havana.

Democratic Alliance celebrated the ﬁ rst anniversa- activist. ry of the national Assembly to Promote Civil Society Holguín, May 20, 2006. The Eastern Democratic in Cuba meeting as well as the birth of the Republic Alliance commemorated the 20th of May in different of Cuba with an event at the Gastón Baquero municipalities of the province. They debated histor- Independent Library, located at Calle Carlos ical issues, made new proposals for a peaceful tran- Manuel de Céspedes #2007 e/ Avenida de Cárdenas sition and declared their support for the document y General Marrero, in Banes. The twelve activists “Three steps to freedom”, by Martha Beatriz Roque were dressed in white as a symbol of peace. Cabello. In Antilla, three Eastern Democratic Source: Marta Díaz Rondón, Lucia Iñiguez Alliance activists led others, all dressed in white, Women’s Movement, Eastern Democratic Alliance, in a march through the city. In Banes, they held Director of the Gastón Baquero Independent a conversation featuring 14 activists at the home of Library; Dayamis Romero Ortiz, human rights independent journalist Michael Verdecia Torres,

82 EFE/Alejandro Ernesto

The Ladies in White hold a march in Havana on May 13, Mothersʼ Day, on their way to place ﬂ owers at the monument to Leonor Pérez, mother of the Cuban apostle, José Martí. located at Calle 17 #26, Reparto Mariana Grajales. Democratic Alliance. On the 104th anniversary of the founding of the Granma, May 20, 2006. In spite of the persecu- Republic of Cuba, the people of Holguín recognized tion they face, the YouthPlanted Towards Freedom the importance of this date and the need for peace- and Democracy in Cuba commemorated Cuban ful change on the island. Independence Day with a meeting presided over Source: Liannis Meriño Aguilera, Youth Without by the group’s secretary and organizer, Yoandris Censorship Press Agency. Radio República. Montes Avilés. They discussed the importance of Granma, May 20, 2006. Leonardo Cancio José Martí’s legacy and the example of bravery he Santana, Nelson Mireyesm Xiomara Moncada, set for new generations. Gabriel Díaz Sánchez re- Enrique Dieguez Segura, Lázaro Vlara García, Tania ported that many of those present noted the histori- de la Torre Montesinos, Alberto Moreno Fonseca cal signiﬁ cance of the date and the fact that the non- and Bertha Arias Sardó participated in a vigil com- violent opposition in Cuba is at its strongest point, memorating Cuban Independence Day. Amidst which will help it gain more supporters. Yoandria high levels of State Security repression, they kept Montes Avilés, Osniel Díaz Sánchez, Francisco Joan vigil in their own homes. Reyes, Grabiel Díaz Sánchez, Feliz Rivero Cardoso, Source: Tania de la Torre, Grito de la Patria Free José Armando Torneo, Alexis Ramos Rodríguez, Press Agency. Antonio Sánchez Soto, Lilian Pita Sedeño and Granma, May 20, 2006. Twelve members of the Giordanis Rodríguez Dieguez were in attendance. Eastern Democratic Alliance held an activity to cel- Source: Fernando Tabares, The Association for ebrate the 104th anniversary of the founding of the a Free Press, Radio República. Liannis Meriño Republic of Cuba at the home of activist Yoandri Aguilera, Youth Without Censorship Press Agency. Montoya Avilés, who lives at Calle Raúl Gómez #217 Radio República. La Unión, Bayamo. Guantánamo, May 20, 2006. A group of ac- Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, Eastern tivists from the Cuban Movement of Youths for

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 83 Democracy founded the El Yunque Independent on Human Rights. He asked them not to become Library in Baracoa, at the home of Julian Antonio discouraged in achieving a real democracy in Cuba. Monés Borrero. This led many students and other Source: Ricardo Pupo Sierra, political prisoner, youths, for the most part professionals, to visit on a Radio República. daily basis. This organization is aware of its obliga- Camagüey, May 23, 2006. Residents of the tion to support Cuban youths and even though the Callejón de Nitrógeno y Pineda neighborhood pro- place is under constant surveillance, people who tested the massive eviction being carried out by the come say they do not to care. This is the ﬁ rst library police and special military units. During the protest, of its kind in Baracoa and its collection includes the population showed its solidarity for indepen- many documents, works of literature and other in- dent journalist Armando Betancourt and tried to formation. prevent police from arresting him. The confronta- Source: Julian Antonio Monés Borrero, Cuban tion between the people and the police was so great Movement of Youths for Democracy, Radio that the police forces could not get to the homes to República. be evicted and eventually abandoned their objec- Pinar del Río, May 21, 2006. The provin- tive. cial delegation of National Independent Workers Source: Félix Sánchez Delgado, Christian Confederation of Cuba (CONIC), the National Democratic Party. Radio República. Movement of Free People “Josué País García” and Havana, May 24, 2006. The Freedom Movement the Democratic Party 30th of November “Frank participated in a mass held at the Santa Bárbara País” celebrated the 104th anniversary of the birth Parish for prisoners, especially Cuban political pris- of the Republic of Cuba at its headquarters at oners, prisoners of conscience, and for those free- Calle Celso Maragoto #143 A e/ Coronel Pozo y dom seekers who have disappeared. Avellaneda, the home of party delegate José Félix Source: Juan Francisco Humberto Guerra Rodríguez. In spite of a large pro-Castro operation Perugorría, Freedom Movement; Anaika Paneca and a repudiation rally against the activists, 25 peo- Román, Democratic Party 30th of November ple participated in the event. “Frank País”; Ángel De Fana Serrano, Plantados Source: José Félix Rodríguez Rodríguez, CONIC; Until Freedom and Democracy in Cuba. Ramón Suarez Diaz, Democratic Party 30th of Isla de Pinos, May 25, 2006. The Julio Tang November “Frank País”; José A. Ballart Ochoa, Texier Cultural Civic Project commemorated the The National Movement of Free People of Cuba anniversary of the death of Pedro Luís Boitel and “Josué País García”. the third anniversary of the founding of the Pedro Camagüey, May 21, 2006. The Ladies in White, Luís Boitel Video Room – the ﬁ rst of its type on the the wives, mothers, sisters and family members Isla de Pinos. of political prisoners from Camagüey, attended Source: Carlos Serpa Maceira, independent jour- Sunday mass at the Santa Ana Church, located at nalist, Lux Info Press. General Gómez # 400 esquina a Bembeta y Plaza Cienfuegos, May 15-25, 2006. Members of the de Santa Ana. The group prayed for the release of opposition in Cruces held activities in memory of all political prisoners. the late student leader Pedro Luís Boitel from May Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political 15 through the 25th. Members of Plantados Until prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. Freedom and Democracy in Cuba and the National Havana, May 21, 2006. The Ladies in White, Movement of Civic Resistance “Pedro Luis Boitel” the wives, mothers, sisters and relatives of politi- (MNRC-PLB) participated in the events. The groups cal prisoners, made their weekly pilgrimage to the observed vigils on May 15, 20 and 25, and a fast on Santa Rita Church at 5ta. Avenida y 26, Miramar. May 22. During the fast, they read biblical passages They prayed for the release of Cuba’s political pris- and prayed for political prisoner Guillermo Fariñas oners. Hernández and for the release of all political pris- Source: Laura Pollán, wife of jailed independent oners and prisoners of conscience. In spite of the journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. watchful vigilance of State Security throughout the Cienfuegos, May 23, 2006. Political prisoner municipality, the opposition managed to pay hom- Ricardo Pupo Sierra sent a message to the Cuban age to Pedro Luís Boitel one of the most brilliant people from his cell at the Ariza provincial prison men in contemporary Cuban history, an example advising them not to fear the regime, not to be for civic and democratic youth in Cuba, Evelardo cheated by it and to speak the truth without fear. Abreu Casteñón reported. He told them to seek out information with human Source: Ahmed Rodríguez Albacia, Youths Without rights groups and to read the Universal Declaration Censorship. Radio República.

84 Villa Clara, May 25, 2006. Members of the Santa Rita Church at 5ta. Avenida y 26, Miramar. Marta Abreu Women’s Movement handed out al- They prayed for freedom for their imprisoned fam- ternative literature in the streets of Santa Clara. ily members. Despite facing repression from members of the Source: Laura Pollán, wife of jailed independent Cuban Communist Party, the women managed to journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. hand out information to passersbys. Camagüey, May 28, 2006. The Ladies in White, Source: Idania Yánes Contreras, Marta Abreu the wives, mothers, sisters and family members Women’s Movement. of political prisoners from Camagüey, attended Villa Clara, May 25, 2006. Nonviolent opposi- Sunday mass at the Santa Ana Church, located at tion leaders Idania Yánez Contreras, Noelia Pedraza General Gómez # 400 esquina a Bembeta y Plaza Jiménez and Roque Emilio Martínez Angulo shout- de Santa Ana. The group prayed for the release of all ed antigovernment slogans after being attacked by political prisoners and prisoners of conscience. ﬁ ve female athletes and one male wrestler. The dis- Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political sidents had gone to the hospital to seek informa- prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. tion regarding the health of hunger striking activist Holguín, May 28, 2006. Activists from the Guillermo Fariñas Hernández. Cuban Human Rights Foundation and the Eastern Source: Ahmed Rodríguez Albacia, Youths Without Democratic Alliance met to pray for national uni- Censorship. Radio República. ty and reconciliation in the Our Lady of Caridad Villa Clara, May 25, 2006. A group of youths met Church, in the Banes municipality. There, the at the Julio Nerey Merchena Independent Library, fourteen activists prayed for the immediate re- the headquarters of the Christian Democratic lease of Cuban political prisoners and the health of Movement of Cuba, to prepare for a series of hands- Guillermo Fariñas Hernández. on meetings that will be held at the soon-to-be- They asked for unity and reconciliation among opened cultural and recreational center. The youths Cubans, alluding to the words of Pope John Paul played various board games and leafed through a II when he visited Cuba, and laid white ﬂ owers variety of books, mostly related to Cuban history. on the altar of the Virgin. The candlelight service They debated the last struggles against the Batista was closely observed by State Security forces led by regime and the taking of power by the rebels. The Major Cruz Rodríguez. meeting was productive. Source: Liannis Meriño Aguilera, Youths Without Source: Alain Gómez Ramos, Christian Democratic Censorship. Marta Díaz Rondón, Lucia Iñiguez Movement of Cuba. Radio República. Women’s Movement, Eastern Democratic Alliance, Holguín, May 25, 2006. Members of the Eastern Director of the Gastón Baquero Independent Democratic Alliance held a closing ceremony for Library; Dayamis Romero Ortiz, human rights the week honoring martyr Pedro Luis Boitel and for activist. the release of political prisoners. The ceremony was Holguín, May 28, 2006. Seven activists prayed held at Calle 1ra #19, Reparto Joselillo in Moa. Omar for unity and reconciliation through dialogue at the Wilson Estévez Real, Felipe Disnay Ramos Leiva, home of activist Francisco Ferrer Columbié, who Felipe del Rosario, Héctor Silót Rueda, Omar Pérez lives at Calle Moncada #5 in Sagua de Tanamo. Torres, Osiel Olivares Tito, Martín Ruiz González, Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, Eastern Francisco Hernández Gómez and Silverio Herrera Democratic Alliance. Juan Carlos Garcell Pérez, Acosta participated in the event. Eastern Free Press Agency. Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, Eastern Villa Clara, May 30, 2006. Seventeen activists Democratic Alliance. Juan Carlos Garcell Pérez, from different organizations participated in a vigil Eastern Free Press Agency. to support the ongoing hunger strike of indepen- Camagüey, May 26, 2006. Prisoner Roberto dent journalist Guillermo Fariñas Hernández. The Tejas Sánchez began a hunger strike in his cell in vigil was held by the main entrance to Santa Clara’s the Cerámica Roja prison to protest what he con- Arnaldo Milián Castro Hospital, where the pres- siders an injustice against his person. The 34-year- tigious journalist is bedridden. The Liberal Party old from Majibacoa was arrested on the morning of of Cuba, the Maceo Movement for Dignity, the April 7 in Camagüey. Sajarov Movement and the Marta Abreu Women’s Source: Marilín Díaz Fernández, Lux Info Press, Movement were all represented at the vigil. They Cubanet. recited psalms and verses from the New Testament, Havana, May 28, 2006. The Ladies in White, sang the national anthem and placed lawn signs the wives, mothers, sisters and relatives of politi- reading, “Don’t let him die” and “Long live human cal prisoners, made their weekly pilgrimage to the rights”. They also prayed for Guillermo Fariñas, who

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 85 has spent more than 100 days on a hunger strike to health of former political prisoner and independent demand free Internet access for all Cubans. journalist Guillermo Fariñas Hernández, who is on Source: Ahmed Rodríguez Albacia, Youths Without an extended hunger strike, and for the life of the Censorship. Radio República. Idania Yánes opposition activist Martha Beatriz Roque Cabello, Contreras, Marta Abreu Women’s Movement. who was recently attacked in her home by para- Havana, May 31, 2006. Members of the Pro- military mobs. They also commented on the situ- Human Rights Party, an affi liate organization of the ation in the jails of political prisoners and prayed Andrei Sajarov Foundation, held a vigil on the 40th for liberty for all of them and for all Cubans. One anniversary of the creation of what, in Cuba, is sadly dozen human rights activists attended the meeting. known as the Military Units to Support Production José Antonio Pérez Morell, a member of the group’s or UMAP, concentration camps, where thousands Board of Directors, announced a conference on this of Cuban youths were sent to suffer horrendous brutal act. mistreatment and violations of their rights. The Source: Juan Francisco Sigler Amaya, Member vigil was held at the home of Luis González Medina, of the Board of Directors, Alternative Option Calle 40 #2906 e/ 29 y 33, in San José de las Lajas. Independent Movement. Radio República. Source: Luis González Medina and Julián Enrique Holguín, May 31, 2006. The fi rst Bifronte Martínez Báez, Pro-Human Rights Party. Radio magazine was presented, featuring the release of the República. MLK biography and prayers for all Cuban political Villa Clara, May 31, 2006. Members of the prisoners. Six people attended the publishing party, Marta Abreu Women’s Movement, the Liberal which took place at the home of Yosvani Anzardo Party and the Maceo Movement for Dignity held a Hernández, Calle 7 Sur #1207 e/ 12 y 17, San vigil at the headquarters of the Pro-Human Rights Germán. Party, an affi liate organization of the Andrei Sajarov Source: Luis Felipe Rojas Rosabal, Liberal Party Foundation in Ranchuelos. They prayed for the of Cuba.

86 PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 87 JUNE 2006 Havana, June 1, 2006. Issue 9 of the Antorcha Juan Reyes Benítez, José Tornés Milanés, Mario Universitaria independent newsletter, edited Olivera Castillo, Lilia Josefa Pita Sedeño and other by students in Western Cuba and published by supporters of the movement. the Cuban Youth for Democracy Movement , was Source: Gabriel Yosmar Díaz Sánchez, Youths published. The issue featured the following articles: of Bayamo, Planted Towards Freedom and “The diplomacy of university students in Cuba”, Democracy in Cuba. Radio República. “Access of Cubans to the internet” and “Integral Holguín, June 2, 2006. Ilei de Jesús Urrutia text of the manifesto directed to the Cuban people”; Álvarez released his second open letter to the artists as well as poetry, letters, and the biography of the of the world. In it, the Cuban painter denounced martyr Virgilio Campanería Ángel, executed by the police for threatening him on multiple occa- fi ring squad in 1961 by the Castro government. sions with confi scating his artistic tools as well as Source: Néstor Rodríguez Lobaina, Cuban Youth many members of the Cuban Communist Party for for Democracy Movement . harassing him. In a meeting to which he had been Ciego de Ávila, June 1, 2006. A torrent of anti- invited, authorities criticized Urrutia for the disre- Castro signs and graffi ti appeared throughout the spectful language of his fi rst letter to the artists of Ceballos community, featuring phrases like “Down the world and questioned his statements that art- with Fidel!” and “No more hunger!” State Security ists who did not share the offi cial ideology lacked and the national police arrived on the scene to access to galleries. In response to the charge that he remove the text but ended up providing comic relief used disrespectful language, he said that, although as they chased a dog through the streets; the dog’s he is only 40 years old, for the past 47 years, those fur had been painted with the slogan, “Down with in his position have been harassed with the most communism! Down with Castro!” Among the less disrespectful terms, including worm, scum, unpa- mobile locations where the slogans could be found triotic, delinquent and more. “After being called were the walls of the church and on the masonry of these slurs, I feel free of any sense of guilt for an the public plaza. alleged lack of respect. Nonetheless, if I have been Source: Luis Esteban Espinosa, Youths Without irreverent to anyone, I remind them that whoever Censorship. Cubanet. wishes to be respected should fi rst respect his fel- Camagüey, June 1, 2006. The Christian low man and not call others any epithet just be- Liberation Movement published Volume 4, Issue cause they think differently.” He declared that he 27 of the El Camagüeyano newsletter, featuring an would not yield to the repression and reaffi rmed his article on the young opposition activist and sister of position as a “dissident whose religion is freedom political prisoners, Ana Belkis García, information and as an artist who, through his works, expresses on the Citizen Information Service Center (CESIC) an appreciation of the world in which we live.” meetings, and other news. Source: Ilei de Jesús Urrutia Álvarez, Radio Source: Luis Guerra Juvier, Nueva Prensa Cubana; República. Julio Romero Muñoz, Freedom of Expression Villa Clara, June 3, 2006. The Eusebio Peñalver Solidarity Movement. Mazorra Independent Library was inaugurated at Granma, June 1, 2006. A nighttime candlelight the home of Idania Yánes Contreras, Prolongación vigil for the release of Cuban political prisoners was de Marta Abreu #93, e/ B y C, Reparto Virginia. held in Bayamo at the headquarters of the Youth Many different organizations participated in Movement of Bayamo, located at Raúl Gómez the celebration, including the Cuban Nationalist 266 e/ Guillermo Tornés y C, Reparto La Unión, Civic Movement, Plantados Until Freedom and Bayamo. Plantados Until Freedom and Democracy Democracy in Cuba, the Marta Abreu Women’s in Cuba led the vigil, which included a moment Movement, the Liberal Party of Cuba, the Maceo of silence, the singing of the national anthem and Movement for Dignity, the Independent Democratic a prayer for the release of political prisoners. The Front, the Pro-Human Rights Party, an affi liate or- following participated in the event: Antonio Santí ganization of the Andrei Sakharov Foundation and Soto, Yordanis Diéguez Rodríguez, Otniel Díaz the Christian Democratic Movement and others. Sánchez, Alexis Ramírez Rodríguez, Félix Rivero Marta Abreu Women’s Movement President Noelia Cordoví, Yoandris Montoya Aviés, Francisco Pedraza Jiménez said that this new center will offer

88 its services daily to those who wish to read alterna- (CNCSI). Enrique Pérez González, CNCSI-Regla. tive literature and independent press. During the Joel Brito, Corporate Social Responsibility Group meeting, they paid tribute to former political pris- of Cuba. oner Peñalver Mazorra, who died in exile. Villa Clara, June 6 - August 31, 2006. The Source: Ahmed Rodríguez Albacia, independent National Association of Rafters for Human Rights, journalist, Youths Without Censorship. Cubanet. Peace, Democracy and Freedom began a chain Havana, June 4, 2006. The Ladies in White, of fasts in support of independent journalist the wives, mothers, sisters and relatives of political Guillermo Fariñas Hernández. The fasters followed prisoners, made their weekly pilgrimage to the a seven-day rotation, each observing a different day Santa Rita Church at 5ta. Avenida y 26, Miramar. of the week without food. Every day, seven activists They prayed for freedom for their imprisoned – six on Saturdays and Sundays – fasted for 24 family members. hours. The fast lasted through August 31, 87 days Source: Laura Pollán, wife of jailed independent in all, and took place at the homes of each faster. journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. Berta Soler The rotation was as follows: Monday: Margarito Fernández, wife of imprisoned human rights Broche Espinosa, Nelio López Ares, Lázaro Moret activist Angel Moya Acosta. Hernández, Carlos Michael Morales Rodríguez, Villa Clara, June 4, 2006. Opposition Jenny Castellón Rojas, Ramón Norberto Martín organizations from central Cuba started a fast to Ruíz, Rolando Pastor Cabello Garma. Tuesday: support independent journalist Guillermo Fariñas María de la Caridad Noa González, Alberto Garbe Hernández, who continues his hunger strike to Aguiar, Luis Ángel Triana de la Paz, Yosvel Caraballo demand Internet access for Cubans. Following the Morera, Orlando Ludeiro Álvarez, Marlenes Broche event, ﬁ ve dissidents declared a permanent fast for Espinosa, Ivón Lissete Bienes Cunill. Wednesday: 45 days, during which they will abstain from all Felicia Espinosa Rodríguez, Jikli López Ares, solid foods. The following people participated in Raúl Pérez Gavilán, Aideé Códova González, Juan the vigil: Liset Zamora Carrandi, Noelia Pedraza José Comas Savina, Hugo Martínez López, Idalia Jiménez and Idania Yánes Contreras of the Marta Jiménez García. Thursday: Yaqueline González Abreu Women’s Movement; Yuniesky García Broche, Duvier Herrera Landín, Olga Lidia Carrillo López, Liberal Party of Cuba; and Luís Aragón Rodríguez, Ariel Orama Martín, Arturo Isaac Díaz García, Maceo Movement for Dignity. Despite a Rojas, Margarita Cunill Díaz, Ángel Paz Carrillo. large repudiation rally, the fast took place at the Friday: Julián Jesús Noa González, Javier Delgado home of Idania Yánes Contreras, Prolongación de Torna, Vladimir Santana Santana, Leticia Rodríguez Marta Abreu 93 C, e/ B y C, Reparto Virginia. Caraballo, Yaritza Carrillo Santana, Agustín Michel Source: Idania Yanes Contreras, Marta Abreu López Ares, Manuel Santana Padrón. Saturday: Women’s Movement, and Yuniesky García López, Ramón Noa González, Atilano Rubio Rodríguez, Liberal Party of Cuba. Misleidi Leiva García, Sergio Armando Moreno Camagüey, June 4, 2006. The Ladies in White, Moreno, Fernando Cremades Hernández, Pedro the wives, mothers, sisters and family members Carvajal Miranda. Sunday: Manuel Herrada of political prisoners from Camagüey, attended Esquiada, Maríanela Ares Salsona, Yanosky Pérez, Sunday mass at the Santa Ana Church, located at Odalis Carrillo Noa, Belky Pantaleón Balaguer, General Gómez # 400 esquina a Bembeta y Plaza Yandys Salazar Broche, Duniesky Morales de Santa Ana. The group prayed for the release of Parrado. all political prisoners. Source: Margarito Broche Espinosa, National Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political Association of Rafters for Peace, Human Rights, prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. Democracy and Freedom. Havana, June 6, 2006. The National Center Sancti Spiritus, June 6 - August 31, 2006. for Union and Labor Training held an activity to The National Association of Rafters for Human support the formal complaints of unions and other Rights, Peace, Democracy and Freedom began a labor groups that these trade unions have submitted chain of fasts in support of independent journalist to the International Labor Organization. Twelve Guillermo Fariñas Hernández. The fasters followed independent union organizers from the Union of a seven-day rotation, each observing a different day Independent Workers of Cuba (USTIC) participated of the week without food. Every day, three activists in the event, which took place at Calle Baso #1, e/ fasted for 24 hours. The fast lasted through August Pereira y Hambrón, Regla. 31, 87 days in all, and took place at the homes of Source: Víctor Manuel Domínguez García, each faster. The following activists participated in National Center for Labor and Union Training the fast: Osmani López Arencibia, Soida Hernández,

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 89 The childrenʼs magazine Limón Partido (Split Lemon), published by the Independent Libraries of Cuba in the United States, was launched in Cuba, where it is popular with readers. This young girl is holding the May 2006 edition.

Omar Cabrera Gallo, Erasmo Gómez Hernández, president of the Cuban Human Rights Foundation, Sailí Camacho Espinosa, Mario Cabrera Carrasco, described Fariñas’ serious condition, as well as how Yuadrey Pérez Toledo, Ramón Quintana Noda, the hospital had practically been overtaken by the Idelso Ferrer Ramos, José Borges Serrano, Emérita military. “Hundreds of military and paramilitary Caraballo Corteza, Leonardo López Martín, Bárbara personnel guard the facility and prevent dissidents Viera Rodríguez, Frank Llánez Santos, Rodobaldo from staying,” he said. He also called on others to Rodríguez Rodríguez, Joel Díaz Martín, Meibi join in with the fasts and prayers, so that God might Hernández Melgarejo, Agustín Gómez Hernández, grant a satisfactory solution and save the life of the Arturo Pajón García and Meisi Espinosa Rodríguez striker, who the Cuban government is criminally and José Arcia Piedra. permitting to leave to his death. The Cuban Human Source: Margarito Broche Espinosa, National Rights Foundation, Marta Abreu Foundation, Association of Rafters for Peace, Human Rights, League of Independent Farmers and FLAMUR de- Democracy and Freedom. cided to hold a liquid fast to support Fariñas. Ciego de Ávila, June 6, 2006. Various opposi- Source: Abel Escobar Ramírez, Cubanet. tion organizations held a voluntary fast of indefi - Holguín, June 6, 2006. The Eastern Democratic nite length in solidarity with independent jour- Alliance called on the domestic and international nalist Guillermo Fariñas Hernández, on a hunger public to pressure the Cuban government to stop strike since January. Due to his deteriorated health, dismantling independent libraries. Fariñas has been admitted to the intensive care Since January 2006, the political police have bro- unit of the Arnaldo Milián Castro Hospital in Santa ken into and looted fi ve independent libraries in Clara. Attorney Juan Carlos González Leyva, the this province. All fi ve were stripped of their liter- 90 Members of the Eastern Democratic Alliance hold a fast on June 15, 2006 in the Gastón Baquero Independent Library, in the municipality of Banes, Holguín. ary assets. They were: Calixto García and Gastón mission will be autonomous and will work with the Baquero in Banes; Wenceslao Aguilera Feria in resources of its members, contributing to the cre- Antilla; Guillermo Cabrera Infante in Gibara and, ation of a list of victims of human rights violations most recently on June 1, Pedro Luis Boitel in Moa. and to denounce these violations on the interna- Three of these were completely ransacked to stop tional stage. readers from accessing the books. Source: Mario Echavarría, Youths for Democracy “The independent libraries were created with the Press Agency. Radio República. objective of breaking the information barrier that Havana, June 7 and 8, 2006. Members of the the Cuban regime has constructed over the past 40 Pro-Human Rights Party, an affi liate organization years. They are sources of knowledge and informa- of the Andrei Sakharov Foundation, held a 24-hour tion for all Cubans who wish to read free and un- fast for the life of Guillermo Fariñas Hernández, censored literature. It is for this reason that our who is on a hunger strike. The fast and prayer ses- peaceful organization repudiates these practices sion was held at the home of Vivian Santana Barreto, of breaking into and sacking independent libraries at Santa Isabel #481, Barrio Azul, Arroyo Naranjo. and demands that the government grant an open- Modesto Leopoldo Valdivia Varela, Francisco Sa ing for all Cubans to the information universe. Fustes, Rigoberto Martínez, Adolfo Peraza Rico, Source: Liannis Meriño Aguilera, Youth Without Enrique Domínguez, Higinio Rodríguez, and Vivian Censorship Press Agency. Radio República. Santana Barreto participated in the fast. Havana, June 7, 2006. A commission against Source: Roberto Santana Rodríguez, independent apartheid in Cuba was established in the capital. journalist, Radio República. Among the group’s objectives is to keep a record of Villa Clara, June 7, 2006. Following a prayer vigil practices involving segregation, or apartheid, in the for the release of political prisoners, members of the country; such practices are constantly being imple- Christian Democratic Movement of Cuba agreed to mented. They also plan to keep the public aware of wear their clothing inside out. The gesture was one the institutionalization of this practice. The com- of solidarity with independent journalist Guillermo PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 91 Fariñas Hernández, who is in serious condition af- “We are going to continue the fast until the fi nal ter 130 days of a hunger strike to demand free access consequences, until they respond to Fariñas or un- to the Internet. The inside-out clothing is a type of til he dies in the attempt. The Women’s Movement nonviolent protest that has been used against dif- is very thankful for the support received. Long live ferent dictatorships. The Democratic Movement of human rights, Until Freedom and Democracy!” said Cuba called on members of the opposition to join Bárbara Jiménez, the vice president of the move- this new action in support of the life of the director ment. of the Cubanacán Press Agency. Source: Bárbara Jiménez and Lissette del Carmen Source: Alaín Ramón Gómez Ramos and Roberto Zamora Carrandi, Marta Abreu Women’s Carlos Pérez García, Christian Democratic Movement, Radio República. Movement of Cuba. Radio República. Camagüey, June 8, 2006. Political prison- Havana, June 8, 2006. The Independent Light ers José Daniel Ferrer García, Leoncio Rodríguez Industry Workers Union (SITIL) and the Christian Ponce, Lamberto Hernández Planas and Carlos Labor Union of Cuba (USCC) signed a collaboration Luis Díaz Fernández began a hunger strike at the agreement. Aurelio Bachiller Álvarez signed on be- Kilo 8 prison, saying that they would continue until half of the SITIL, of which he is the secretary gener- the government ceded to the demands of Guillermo al, while union president Carmelo Díaz Fernández Fariñas Hernández. signed for the USCC. Díaz Fernández said that the Source: Liannis Meriño Aguilera, Youth Without accord includes independent unionization training Censorship press agency. Radio República. courses to help increase membership, labor activi- Camagüey, June 8, 2006. Prisoner of conscience ties and the commemoration of historic dates. He José Daniel Ferrer García sent a message to Cubans closed by saying that the accord “will mark a his- in Cuba and abroad. “It does not matter where we toric achievement in the struggle for independent are; what matters is that we unite our efforts to put unionization in our country.” an end to the oppression that our people are suffer- The participants in the signing ceremony took part ing. We can work hand-in-hand and tirelessly for in a conference to explain some of the conventions democracy and prosperity,” he wrote. “We must in- of the International Labor Organization, of which form and guide the thousands of Cubans who suffer Cuba is a signatory despite its widespread viola- silently while they wait, disoriented, for something tions. They discussed Conventions 87, 95 and 111, to happen. We must multiply our efforts; change which relate to workers’ rights to establish collec- depends on us Cubans, both here and in exile. To tives to defend their interests, respect for salaries a great degree, it depends on what we do with fi rm- and discriminatory employment practices on the ness, courage and love.” basis of race, religious belief and sex. Source: Liannis Meriño Aguilera, Youth Without Source: Roberto Santana Rodríguez, Cubanet. Censorship press agency. Radio República. Havana, June 8, 2006. Activists from the Pro- Camagüey, June 8, 2006. Independent journal- Human Rights Party, an affi liate organization of the ist and prisoner of conscience Juan Carlos Herrera Andrei Sakharov Foundation, held a 12-hour fast to Acosta went on hunger strike in support of Guillermo pray for the health of hunger striking independent Fariñas Hernández and to protest the savage beat- journalist Guillermo Fariñas Hernández. The fast ings that soldiers apply to inmates on a daily ba- was held at the home of activists Luis González sis. Herrera Acosta, behind bars at the maximum Medina and Luz Marina Barceló, who live at Calle security Kilo 8 prison in Camagüey, said it would be 40 #2906 e/ 29 y 33, San José de las Lajas. unacceptable to remain indifferent in the presence Source: Luís González Medina and Julián Enrique of such prison horrors. This same day, he witnesses Martínez Báez, Pro-Human Rights Party, an prison authorities beat up three prisoners. Herrera affi liate organization of the Andrei Sakharov Acosta is serving a 20-year prison sentence, and as Foundation. an additional punishment, 400 kilometers from his Villa Clara, June 8, 2006. Pro-democracy ac- home for practicing independent journalism. tivists affi liated with the Marta Abreu Women’s Source: Luis Esteban Espinosa, Youth Without Movement informed nonviolent opposition ac- Censorship press agency. Radio República. tivists and other people of goodwill regarding the Havana, June 9, 2006. Members of the Pro- precarious medical condition of Guillermo Fariñas Human Rights Party, an affi liate organization of the Hernández, who is in the intensive care unit of Santa Andrei Sakharov Foundation held a 24-hour fast Clara’s Arnaldo Milián Castro Hospital after many for the life of Guillermo Fariñas Hernández, who is months of a hunger strike. They held Fidel Castro in serious condition after more than four months responsible for whatever might happen to Fariñas. on hunger strike. This fast was one of many held

92 Activists from the Cuban Youth for Democracy Movement pose for a photo during an activity held in the Jan Palach Independent Library, in Santiago de Cuba on June 13, 2006.

At another moment during the activity of June 13, readers exchange ideas and books about this new and liberating information and interpretation of history, which they have been able to access thanks to the work of independent libraries like this one, the Jan Palach Library. The books that the libraries provide are censored by the Castro regime. PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 93 throughout the country as opposition activists show independent journalist Guillermo Fariñas their solidarity with Fariñas, whose only demand is Hernández’ ongoing hunger strike. The event for Cubans to have free access to the Internet. was held at the home of human rights defender Source: Roberto Santana Rodríguez, independent Idania Yanes Contreras, at Calle Prolongación journalist. Radio República. de Marta Abreu #93 e/ B y C, Reparto Virginia, Cienfuegos, June 9, 2006. Nonviolent op- Santa Clara. The participants represented various position activists from Aguada de Pasajeros lend nonviolent opposition groups, including the their support to hunger striker Guillermo Fariñas Liberal Party of Cuba, the Maceo Movement for Hernández, the psychologist and director of Dignity, the Independent Democratic Front, the Cubanacán Press, known as Coco, in his strike for Andrei Sakharov Foundation and the Marta Abreu Internet access for all Cubans. Feminine Movement. Source: Bernardo Rogelio Arévalo Padrón, director Source: Ahmed Rodríguez Albacia, independent of the Línea Sur Press Agency. Radio República. journalist, Youths Without Censorship. Radio Holguín, June 9, 2006. A group of opposition República. activists intitiate a fast in support of Guillermo Holguín, June 10, 2006. Political prisoners Fariñas Hernández in Antilla at Calle Celia Sánchez began a fast at the Holguín provincial prison in Manduley #33, e/ Máximo Gómez y Diego M. solidarity with independent journalist Guillermo Yebra. Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, José Ramón Fariñas Hernández. Among those participating were Herrera Hernández, Miguel Santana Breff, Idania Alfredo Domínguez Batista, Luis Cabrera Ballester, Aguilera Miranda, Jorge Luis Rivas Marín, Ángel Randy Cabrera Mayor, Andy Frómeta Cuenca and Batista Vega, Rafael Martínez Leyva, Dailor Rafael Nelson Vázquez Lima. The fast began at 7 a.m. and Ramírez Aguilar, Blas Évora Martínez, Deysi Rivas ended the following Sunday morning at the same Sendón and Luz Marina Artigas Torres participated time. in the event. Source: Liannis Meriño Aguilera, independent Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, Eastern journalist, Youth Without Censorship press agency. Democratic Alliance, and José Ramón Herrera Radio República. Hernández. Holguín, June 10, 12, 14, 16, 17 and 18, 2006. Santiago de Cuba, June 9, 2006. The Cuban Numerous activists joined fasts in Antilla in support Orthodox Renovation Party (PCRO) issued a public of Guillermo Fariñas Hernández. Niurka Reyes statement placing responsibility for the health and Breff, Nelson Antonio Chang Lecusay and Dailor life of independent journalist Guillermo Fariñas on Rafael Ramírez Aguilar fasted at Calle Tony Alomá the Cuban government. The party also borrowed #4, Playa Capíro; Giordana Rocío Varela Fundichely the words of Lina Ruz – Fidel Castro’s mother, and Nobel Julián Domínguez fasted at Calle Antonio who called for her sons’ fair treatment when they Maceo #19, e/ Calixto García y Carlos Manuel de were involved in the struggle against the Fulgencio Céspedes; José Ramón Herrera Hernández and Batista government, noting that, today, they are in María Cristina Leyva Fuentes fasted at Calle B #2, identical circumstances. e/ A y C, Reparto Pueblo Nuevo; Ignacio Mendoza Source: Eduardo Torres, General Coordinator, Sánchez fasted at Calle General Núñez, Ediﬁ cio 7, PCRO. Apto. 4, Reparto Pueblo Nuevo. Havana, June 10, 2006. Ten people attended a Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, José Ramón workshop at the National Labor and Unionization Herrera Hernández, Eastern Democratic Alliance. Training Center on the right to freely organize labor Holguín, June 10, 12, 14, 16, 17 and 18, 2006. as established in Article 87 of the International Activists with the Eastern Democratic Alliance joined Labor Organization. At the workshop, they discussed the fast to support Guillermo Fariñas Hernández. the violations of these rights by Cuban authorities, Rafael Martínez Leyva, Damaris Ramírez Ballester, which arrested and imprisoned seven independent Wilber Rivas Marín and Jorge Luis Rivas Marín labor organizers in the spring of 2003. The center is fasted at Calle Juan George Soto Cuesta #35, Moa. located at Calle San José #564 e/ Lealtad y Escobar, Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, Eastern Centro Habana. Democratic Alliance. Juan Carlos Garcell Pérez, Source: Víctor Manuel Domínguez García, National Eastern Free Press Agency. Labor and Unionization Training Center ; Joel Santiago de Cuba, June 10, 2006. Political Brito, Group for Corporate Social Responsibility of slogans written with red paint and reading “Down Cuba. with Fidel” appeared on the walls of the Union of Villa Clara, June 10, 2006. Twelve activists Communist Youth building in San Luis. The grafﬁ ti participated in a fast and prayer chain to support caused commotion among local residents as the

94 word spread quickly through the municipality. Alfonso Arteaga, Guillermo del Sol, Joel Espinosa Within one hour, police had already repainted the Medrano, Argelia Quintero Benítez, Julio César wall, completely covering up the words. Montes Nerey and Roberto Pérez García all partici- Source: Ahmed Rodríguez Albacia, Youths Without pated in the vigil. Censorship. Radio República. Source: Roberto Carlos García, national coordina- Havana, June 11, 2006. The Ladies in White, tor of the Christian Democratic Movement of Cuba. the wives, mothers, sisters and relatives of political Radio República. prisoners, made their weekly pilgrimage to the Holguín, June 12, 2006. Juan Ramón Claro Santa Rita Church at 5ta. Avenida y 26, Miramar. Infante, Alberto García Silva, Juan Olamendi They prayed for freedom for their imprisoned Sánchez and Pascual Silva Cruz held a fast in family members. solidarity and support of the hunger strike begun Source: Laura Pollán, wife of jailed independent months ago by Guillermo Fariñas Hernández was journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. Berta Soler held at Calle Narciso López #83. Alexander Santos Fernández, wife of imprisoned opposition leader Hernández, Milita Aballe Ricardo, Jesús Roces Angel Moya Acosta. Claro and Olga Lidia Leyva also participated from Camagüey, June 11, 2006. The Ladies in White, Calle Cavada #4F. the wives, mothers, sisters and family members Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, Juan Claro of political prisoners from Camagüey, attended Infante, Eastern Democratic Alliance. Sunday mass at the Santa Ana Church, located at Isla de Pinos, June 13, 2006. Isla de Pinos General Gómez # 400 esquina a Bembeta y Plaza joined the chain of fasts going on throughout Cuba de Santa Ana. The group prayed for the release of all in solidarity with Guillermo Fariñas Hernández, political prisoners and prisoners of conscience. who is on an extended hunger strike demanding Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political Internet access for all Cubans. The 24-hour fast prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. took place at the home located at Calle 8, Escalera Pinar del Río, June 12, 2006. Members of the 2053, Apt. 3 e/ E y F, Reparto Micro 70, Nueva Cuban opposition group Party of the People met to Gerona. The fast was called by the Julio Tang Texier discuss a new work project. Other groups invited to Cultural Civic Project. Sergio Santa Cruz Obriego, the event included the Melinda Gates Democratic Vladimir Araña Rosa, Yoveni Céspedes Martí, Noel Foundation, the Racial Integration Movement, the de la Pena Rivera, Ana Berta Julia Núñez, el ex- Women’s Democratic Front, the Latin American preso político Pedro Rey de Fuentes, Yuran de la Federation of Rural Women, the Assembly to Pena Rivera, David Pérez Placeres and journalist Promote Civil Society in Cuba and many indepen- Carlos Serpa Maceira took part in the fast. dent library directors. Source: Carlos Serpa Maceira, independent The project discussed was called the Bank of the journalist, Lux Info Press. Cuban People. According to the Carlos M. Collazo Isla de Pinos, June 13, 2006. Julio Tang Texier of the Party of the People Ideological Front, the Cultural Civic Project held a vigil for the release of group’s future objectives are to “Contribute to the political prisoners in Cuba. Twenty people attended development of the Cuban economy, which is now the Nueva Gerona vigil. almost entirely collapsed. The main effort of this Source: Carlos Serpa Maceira, independent redevelopment will be the domestic sector, which journalist, Lux Info Press. is currently the most vulnerable as a result of the Holguín, June 13 - July 6, 2006. Numerous shortage of limitations that the regime imposes on nonviolent activists from the National Movement Cuba’s citizens. This project announces to the Cuban of Civic Resistance “Pedro Luis Boitel”, the Cuban people that, after the fall of the Castro regime, there Liberal Movement, the Elena Mederos Foundation, will be an economic future full of prosperity for the the Eastern Free Press Agency and the Pedro Luis new homeland and for Cubans here and abroad, Boitel Independent Library #3, held 6 a.m. to 6 which will be based on democracy and justice.” p.m. fasts in the mining municipality of Moa to Source: Rafael Ferro, Abdala Press, Cubanet. support the hunger striking independent journalist Villa Clara, June 12, 2006. Members of the Guillermo Fariñas Hernández. Those participating Christian Democratic Movement of Cuba met at were: Silverio Herrera Acosta, Omar Wilson Estévez their Santa Clara headquarters for a vigil in sup- Real and Miguel Molina Dúran at Calle Camilo port of Guillermo Fariñas Hernández, who is on an Cienfuegos #124; Felipe Disnay Ramos Leyva, Juan extended hunger strike to demand that all Cubans Carlos Garcell Pérez and Jorge Rodríguez Campos have access to the Internet. Rafael Pérez, Adalberto at Calle 1era. No, 19, Reparto Joselillo; Francisco González Gómez, Yurbis Díaz Remón, Ana Rosa Hernández Gómez and Atilano Rey Cutido at

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 95 Calle Antonio Boisán #25, Reparto Haití Chiquito; Hanoi Alcalá, Xiomara Ruiz, Ernesto Alfonso, Eddy Wilfredo Legrá Frómeta and Pedro Terrero Leyva Ramírez, Yolver Eloy Díaz, Jorge González, Dioenis at Calle Luis Corona #86, Reparto Pueblo Nuevo; Torres, Bárbara Torres, Omar Delgado, Raymer Héctor Siló Rueda, José Manuel de la Rosa Pérez, Díaz, Bárbara Marrero, Norvis García, Regla María Martín Pérez González and Mario Brocal Borges Díaz, Darelys Velásquez, Maribel Hernández and at Calle Mario Muñoz #33F, Reparto Aserrío; Edel Daniel Roberto. Jesús Hernández Reyes and Carlos Luis Hernández Source: Luís González Medina and Julián Enrique Reyes at Los Pinos de Centeno s/n. Additionally, the Martínez Báez, Pro-Human Rights Party, an doctors Aldo Consuegra Martínez and Raima Díaz affi liate organization of the Andrei Sakharov Caballero, renowned otorhinolaryngologist, joined Foundation. workers from many companies in daily prayer Holguín, June 15, 2006. A mass was held at 7:30 sessions at 6 a.m., noon and 6 p.m. to pray for the p.m. at the Our Lady of Carmen Catholic Church health and life of the psychologist and journalist in Antilla to pray for the health of independent Guillermo Fariñas Hernández. journalist Guillermo Fariñas Hernández. Fifty Source: Felipe Disnay Ramos Leyva, Eastern Free worshipers attended the service. Press Agency. Radio República. Eliécer Consuegra Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, José Ramón Rivas, Eastern Democratic Alliance. Juan Carlos Herrera Hernández, Eastern Democratic Alliance. Garcell Pérez, Eastern Free Press Agency. Holguín, June 15, 2006. Twelve activists from Santiago de Cuba, June 13, 2006. The the Eastern Democratic Alliance held a fast in national Board of Directors of the Cuban Youth for solidarity with Guillermo Fariñas Hernández at the Democracy Movement held an event at the Jan Gastón Baquero Independent Library, located at Palach Independent Library to discuss and develop Calle Carlos Manuel de Céspedes 2007, Banes. promotional strategies for the Universities Without Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, Eastern Borders campaign. Democratic Alliance. Liannis Meriño Aguilera, Source: Rolando Rodriguez Lobaina, Cuban Youth Youths Without Censorship. for Democracy Movement . Havana, June 16, 2006. Eight nonviolent Pinar del Río, June 14, 2006. Twelve activists oppositionists of the Pro-Human Rights Party, from a variety of dissident activities joined a 12- an affi liate organization of the Andrei Sakharov hour fast at the Dr. Tevelio Rodríguez del Haya Foundation, including José Manuel Sánchez, Gladis Independent Library to pray for the health of all Salgado Gómez, Camilo Carlos Falcón and Carlos political prisoners. Throughout the fast, State Alfonso Graverán, led a peaceful march along Security and National Revolutionary Police Avenida 189 from Calle 134 to Calle 140 in a show of forces surrounded the library, which is located at support for the hunger strike of Guillermo Fariñas Calle Celso Maragoto #143 A e/ Coronel Pozo y Hernández. “We want to take the chance to send a Avellaneda. message to our brother and let him know that our Source: José Félix Rodríguez Rodríguez, CONIC; delegation is fully willing to give all the support he Ramón Suarez Diaz, “Frank País” 30th of November needs for the hunger strike he is holding to protest Democratic Party ; José A. Ballart Ochoa, The the lack of communication and freedom on the National Movement of Free People of Cuba “Josué island to access the Internet.” País García”. Source: Camilo Cairo Falcón, Boyeros Delegate Havana, June 15-26, 2006. Members of the Pro- to the Pro-Human Rights Party, an affi liate Human Rights Party, an affi liate organization of the organization of the Andrei Sakharov Foundation. Andrei Sakharov Foundation held a fast and vigil Radio República. for 12 days in support of independent journalist Pinar del Río, June 17, 2006. The magazine Guillermo Fariñas Hernández. During the fast, the Vitral, the freedom of light, celebrated its 12th group prayed for his life as well as his physical and anniversary in the Pinar del Río provincial capital spiritual health, threatened by his hunger strike in with a cultural candlelight ceremony. Monsignor demand of Internet access that he began in January. José Siro González, bishop of Pinar del Río, led The activists rotated days spent fasting at Calle 40 the activity along with Manuel Cuesta Morúa, #2906 e/ 29 y 33, San José de las Lajas, in Havana the spokesman of the Progressive Ark, and province. The following activists took part: Delfín representatives from the Ladies in White and Rodríguez, Luís González, Luz Marina Barceló, accredited diplomats in Cuba. The ceremony Osmel de Armas, Manuel Beatón, Marielín de Armas, included the awarding of the 2006 Vitral literature Alexander Marrero, Maribel Hernández, Rafael prizes. The Pinar del Río author María del Carmen Jesús, Alfredo Valle, Carlos Jesús, Katy Hernández, Pino won the Vitral prize and the grand prize for

96 Children’s literature for her workbook, A poem in prisoners. Fourteen activists participated in the my lap. The prize for poetry went to poet Manuel event, held at the home of Reinaldo Hernández Alberto García for his poem, “Where my sorrows Cardona, at Falgueras 413, e/ Lombillo y Pinera, El roost”. In the category for décima, a sonnet-like form Cerro. of Spanish poetry, the prize went to Pinar del Río’s Source: Julia Cecilia Delgado, Reinaldo Hernández Belisario Carlos Vilagos for “Three cloth pelicans”. Cardona, Liberal Party of Cuba. Jorge Santos won in the essay category with “The Havana, June 18, 2006. Members of the Liberal challenges of the lights and darks: ethics, literature Party of Cuba held a fast in solidarity with political and society”, while Oswaldo Antonio Ramírez took prisoners at the home of Leonel Sánchez, located the prize for narrative. A panel of prestigious Cuban at Calle 10, Reparto Capri, 10 de Octubre. Thirteen intellectuals, Jorge Domingo, María del Carmen activists took part in the event. Muncio, Raúl Capote, Ismael González and Orlando Source: Julia Cecilia Delgado, Reinaldo Hernández Frei, comprised the jury. Cardona, Liberal Party of Cuba. “We reaffi rm our faith in the strength of the small, Havana, June 18, 2006. Members of the Liberal in the effectiveness of the seed; we must just let time Party of Cuba held a fast in solidarity with political do its work, for this is a fertile and frank world,” prisoners at the home of Héctor Julio Cedeño, said Dagoberto Valdés, director of Vitral, in his located at Revillagigedo #6, Habana Vieja. Thirteen opening remarks. Monsignor José Siro González activists took part in the event. praised Vitral and called for a campaign of civic Source: Julia Cecilia Delgado, Reinaldo Hernández literacy, quoting Father Varela in saying, “this Cardona, Liberal Party of Cuba. dangerous illiteracy leads to inequity, superstition Havana, June 18, 2006. The Ladies in White, and fanaticism.” The climax of the event was a the wives, mothers, sisters and relatives of political performance by local musicians. prisoners, made their weekly pilgrimage to the Source: Roberto Santana Rodríguez, independent Santa Rita Church at 5ta. Avenida y 26, Miramar. journalist. Radio República. They prayed for freedom for their imprisoned Camagüey, June 17, 2006. Eight members of family members. the Freedom of Expression Solidarity Movement Source: Laura Pollán, wife of jailed independent held a meeting with the activists who run the journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. Berta Soler, Citizen Information Service Centers (CESI), a wife of political prisoner Ángel Moya Acosta. component of this organization. The meeting was Havana, June 18, 2006. Wives and family held at the movement’s headquarters, located at members of political prisoners gathered at the Calle Transversal #218, Reparto Froilán Quirós, home of Laura Pollán, the wife of jailed independent Camagüey. The meeting also featured an analysis of journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. The “Literary Steps to Freedom 2004-05, published by the Cuban Tea” is an opportunity to share letters written by Democratic Directorate. Those present reaffi rmed the political prisoners and for the wives and family their willingness to continue their constant support members to comment on the specifi c situations of for the political prisoner and journalist Armando their loved ones. Betancourt Reina and his family members. Source: Laura Pollán, wife of jailed independent Betancourt founded the CESIs and has coordinated journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. them in the past. Havana, June 18, 2006. A vigil for the release of Source: Julio Romero Muñoz, Free Expression Cuban political prisoners took place at the National Solidarity Movement. Center for Union and Labor Training, located at Holguín, June 17, 2006. A fi ve-hour fast took Calle San José #564 e/ Lealtad y Escobar, Centro place to demand the release of all political prisoners Habana. Those in attendance focused their support in the country and for the health of Guillermo for the independent labor organizers unjustly jailed Fariñas Hernández. The fast was held at the home and sentenced to long prison terms for publicizing of Francisco Ferrer Columbié, at Calle Moncada the civil and labor rights violations in this country. #5, Sagua de Tánamo. Joining Ferrer Columbié in Source: Víctor Manuel Domínguez García, National the fast were Rafael Mesa Columbié, Raúl Gómez Center for Union and Labor Training. Joel Brito, de Cádiz Sierra, Rubildo de la Cruz Roche, José Group for Corporate Social Responsibility of Barzaga Cordero and Jesús Batista Leiva. Cuba. Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, Eastern Matanzas, July 18, 2006. Eleven members of Democratic Alliance. the Peace, Love and Freedom Party held a vigil to Havana, June 18, 2006. Members of the Liberal call for freedom without exile for Cuban political Party of Cuba held a fast in solidarity with political prisoners at the home of Ramón Verdecia, at Calle

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 97 Maceo 104, in Colón. and Norberto Díaz Peña prayed the rosary at the Source: Jorge Luís Álvarez García, Peace, Love and home of Ana Belkis Ferrer García, Calle 7 Final # Freedom Party, Matanzas; Alejandrina García 318, Loma Blanca, Palmarito de Cauto, as they do de la Riva, wife of political prisoner Diosdado every Wednesday. González Marrero. Source: Ana Belkis Ferrer García, sister of political Matanzas, July 18, 2006. Six members of the prisoners José Daniel and Luis Enrique Ferrer Peace, Love and Freedom Party held a vigil for the García, Christian Liberation Movement. release of Cuban political prisoners at the Gustavo Camagüey, June 20, 2006. Norgelis Gutiérrez Arcos Bergnes Library, which is in the home of Bonne, 33, an inmate at the Kilo 8 prison, began Eufemio Álvarez la Fe, Calle 30 e/ 25 y 33 #2524, a protest against the jail conditions. In response, Torriente, Jagüey Grande. Six others took part at the prison authorities locked him up in a covered the home of Andrés Govea Suárez, at Calle Libertad punishment cell. It is common practice at this prison 41 e/ 3 y San Antonio, Guareira. Nine participated to punish inmates for demanding their rights. at the home of Diosdado González Marrero, Santa Source: Marilín Díaz Fernández, correspondent Rita 29 y Maceo, Périco, Roque. Pablo Raymundo with Lux InfoPress in Camagüey and a member of de Toro hosted seven others at his home at Calle 11 the Association for the Freedom of the Press. Radio #5421 e/ 54 y 56, Jagüey Grande. República. Source: Jorge Luís Álvarez García, Peace, Love and Havana, June 21, 2006. The Boyeros delegation Freedom Party, Matanzas; Alejandrina García of the Pro-Human Rights Party of Cuba held an de la Riva, wife of political prisoner Diosdado eight-hour fast in the home of Camilo Cairo Falcón to González Marrero. support the hunger strike of independent journalist Cienfuegos, June 18, 2006. Juan Carlos Guillermo Fariñas Hernández. The opposition Santana Sorián and Manuel Cordero Villasón activists denounced the repudiation rallies, of declared a hunger strike from their cells at Ariza which they are often victims, and remembered prison to protest the abuses they suffer in that that next month marks the fi rst anniversary of prison. Cordero was beaten when he gave a letter preventiveimprisonment for many members of their to prisoner of conscience Librado Linares, who was party, who remain in different provincial prisons. in the prison’s sick ward. He sleeps on the fl oor in Source: Camilo Cairo Falcón, Boyeros delegate to the subhuman conditions. Pro-Human Rights Party, an affi liate organization of Source: Ricardo Pupo Sierra, political prisoner the Andrei Sakharov Foundation. Radio República. from the Ariza prison. Radio República. Havana, June 21, 2006. An activity was held at Camagüey, June 18, 2006. The Ladies in White, the National Center for Union and Labor Training the wives, mothers, sisters and family members to commemorate the United Nations Day of of political prisoners from Camagüey, attended Childhood and to remember the suffering of those Sunday mass at the Santa Ana Church, located at children whose parents are unjustly imprisoned. General Gómez # 400 esquina a Bembeta y Plaza The activity took place at Calle San José #564 e/ de Santa Ana. The group prayed for the release of Lealtad y Escobar, Centro Habana. all political prisoners. Source: Víctor Manuel Domínguez García, National Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political Center for Union and Labor Training. Joel Brito, prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. Group for Corporate Social Responsibility of Camagüey, June 18, 2006. Around 7 people, Cuba. including Ladies in White, family members of Villa Clara, June 21, 2006. More than a dozen political prisoners and activists, gathered at the opposition activists with the Christian Democratic home of Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, the wife of Movement of Cuba met at the group’s headquarters political prisoner Alfredo Pulido López, to ptay the at Calle G #18, e/ ICP y Fábrica de Pienso, Reparto rosary for all of the political prisoners and prisoners Sub Planta, Santa Clara, to pray for Cuba’s political of conscience in Cuba. Her home is located at Calle prisoners and for Guillermo Fariñas. The event Palomino #445 e/ Línea y Primera, Reparto La concluded with a reading of humorous poetry Mascota, Camagüey. published in Vitral magazine in the January- Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political February 2005 issue. Among those participating prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. Berta Bueno, wife were Julio César Montes, Niurbis Díaz Remón, Olga of political prisoner Alejandro González Raga. González Barroso, Joel Fonseca Machado, Argelia Santiago de Cuba, June 18, 2006. Belkis Quintero Domínguez, Gustavo Bermúdez Quintero, Cantillo, Amelia García Vega, Ana Belkis Ferrer Joel Espinosa Medrano, Idalberto González and García, Gerardo Miranda, Yuniel Santos de la Cruz Roberto Carlos Pérez García

98 Source: Roberto Carlos Pérez García, national on the last Sunday of each month. Through their coordinator of the Christian Democratic Movement discussion, the need became evident to unify the of Cuba. Radio República. opposition and civil society to advocate for peaceful Pinar del Río, June 23, 2006. Political prisoner change toward true democracy. Ricardo Santiago Medina Salabarría complained Source: Liannis Meriño Aguilera, independent to authorities at the Taco Taco prison about the journalist, Youth Without Censorship press agen- degrading and inhumane conditions in which cy. Radio República. Marta Díaz Rondón, Lucia prisoners are held at the prison. According to his Iñiguez Women’s Movement, Eastern Democratic wife, Katia Sonia Martín Veliz, Medina Salabarría Alliance, Director of the Gastón Baquero denounced the beatings, torture and other Independent Library; Dayamis Romero Ortiz, hu- mistreatment that prison offi cials infl ict on the man rights activist. inmates. Pinar del Río, June 26, 2006. Political prisoner Source: Roberto Santana Rodríguez, independent Santiago Medina Salabarría began to sponsor the journalist. Varela Days at the Taco Taco jail. Medina initiated Granma, June 24, 2006. Antigovernment this celebration in response to encouragement from slogans appeared on Calle 21 between Calle Libertad Monsignor José Siro González, the bishop of Pinar and Calle Mártires. Residents of Reparto El Valle, del Río, to rescue and disseminate the fi gure of Bayamo, saw the graffi ti declaring “Down with Father Félix Varela y Morales. Every Monday in the Fidel”. It was written on the walls of the doctors’ provincial prison, Medina led a group in prayers for offi ce at Calle 21 #32. Members of the National a democratic future in Cuba and freedom for all po- Revolutionary Police and the political police litical prisoners. According to his wife, Katia Sonia descended on the locale to take photographs of the Martín Véliz, the eight inmates participated in the wall and try to obtain fi ngerprints. They also used fi rst meeting, discussing the life of Father Varela as police dogs. “Fidel” was written with feces. well as contributing their own ideas to the conver- Source: Gabriel Díaz Sánchez, independent sation. The goal is to incorporate other Taco Taco journalist with the Youth Without Censorship Press prisoners into the meetings. Agency. Source: Roberto Santana Rodríguez, independent Havana, June 25, 2006. The Ladies in White, journalist. Radio República. the wives, mothers, sisters and relatives of political Havana, June 26, 2006. Marking one year since prisoners, made their weekly pilgrimage to the Reinaldo Bragado Bretaña died, a conversation was Santa Rita Church at 5ta. Avenida y 26, Miramar. held to remember the writer and human rights ac- They prayed for freedom for their imprisoned tivist born in Cuba in 1953, who died in Miami on family members. June 26, 2005. The eulogy took place at the home Source: Laura Pollán, wife of jailed independent of independent librarian Omaida Padrón Azcuy, journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. Berta Soler, Calle 18 e/ Línea y Calzada, Vedado. Among those wife of political prisoner Ángel Moya Acosta. paying homage were Heriberto Portales, presi- Camagüey, June 25, 2006. The Ladies in White, dent of the Orthodox Party, Roberto Miranda Díaz, the wives, mothers, sisters and family members member of the National Board of Directors of the of political prisoners from Camagüey, attended Cuban Liberal Movement, and various journalists, Sunday mass at the Santa Ana Church, located at neighbors and peaceful opposition activists, who General Gómez # 400 esquina a Bembeta y Plaza exchanged information about the life and work of de Santa Ana. The group prayed for the release of all Bragado Bretaña. political prisoners and prisoners of conscience. Source: Miguel Iturria Savón, Cubanet. Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political Santiago de Cuba, June 26, 2006. The El prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. Cubano Libre Independent Library was inaugurated Holguín, June 25, 2006. Eleven activists at Calle Céspedes 206, e/ General García y Máximo from the Cuban Human Rights Foundation, part Gómez, San Luis. The library is run by Maura Iset of the Eastern Democratic Alliance, observed a González Furquet, who is also the president of the prayer service at the Nuestra Señora de la Caridad Latin American Rural Women’s Foundation. She Church in Banes to pray for national unity and declared that the library puts a collection of litera- reconciliation, as well as for the health of Guillermo ture crossing various topics within the reach of the Fariñas Hernández. According to independent Cuban public, who will also have access to books librarian and organization member Martha Díaz that are banned by Cuba’s totalitarian government. Rondón, the 15 activists present discussed these Gualdímar Parra Santana, Israel Folgar Cardona, issues extensively and then prayed, which they do José A. Estrada Varela, Jenny Estrada Forján and

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 99 Pedro Enrique Martínez Machado, members of the 10 fi sh steaks. The police chief, Sergio Vilariño Cuban Human Rights Foundation and the Farmers’ Rodríguez, told him that the fi ne was legal. After League. exchanging words with the chief, the dissident Source: Ahmed Rodríguez Albacia, independent told him that this was a political action due to his journalist, Youth Without Censorship Agency. dissident activism. Radio República. Source: Alain Ramón Gómez Ramos, Christian Havana, June 27, 2006. The Cuban Liberal Democratic Movement of Cuba. Radio República. Movement issued its annual statement express- Villa Clara, June 30, 2006. The Marta Abreu ing, among other issues, the group’s intention to Women’s Movement announced that several develop an improved internal work structure and prisoners in different jails around the country to apply new designs that allow it to better prepare were fasting in solidarity with Guillermo Fariñas both the movement brass and the rank and fi le for Hernández. In the Boniato prison in Santiago de democracy. Among its other goals, the group men- Cuba, the following prisoners took part in the fast: tioned addressing confl icts at the community and Eduardo Díaz Castellanos, Manuel Ubals González, regional levels as well as emphasizing its work with Ernesto Durán Rodríguez, Ricardo Galván Casal, young professionals and students. Rolides Nieves Rodríguez, Reinaldo Labrada Peña, Source: León Padrón Azcuy, President, Cuban Oscar Tamayo Rivero, Francisco Herodes Díaz Liberal Movement. Echemendía, Yordanis Loret Casero, Onel Casaldo Isla de Pinos, June 28, 2006. Human rights Garlobo, José Girón Cabrera, Andrés Vargas Nieves, activists from different organizations met on this Jorge Cervantes Díaz, Félix Barrero Oblán, Mario island to coordinate peaceful activities designed to Antonio Román Llanes, Vladimir Ulises Román encourage the “Freedom without exile for all Cuban Llanes, Edilberto Aguilar Guevara, Franklin Isaac political prisoners” campaign. Martínez, David Rosabal Cabrera, Faustino Peralta Amnesty International has qualifi ed these prisoners Calcio, Hermes Estrada Videau, Carlos Arévalo Yong as prisoners of conscience: and Osmel Cedeño Mustafá. In the Combinado, in Héctor Pachaga Sia, Manuel de Jesús Pozo Fortunato, Guantánamo, the following inmates fasted for Reinaldo Gómez Quintero and Carlos González 12 hours every day: Jesús Mustafá Felipe, Claro Rojas represented the following organizations: the Sánchez Altarriba, Alberto Martínez Fernández Cuban Human Rights Foundation on Isla de Pinos, and Alfredo Noa Estupiñán. Meanwhile, the follow- the Independent Workers’ Confederation of Cuba, ing inmates are participating at the Kilo 8 prison the Ernesto Díaz Madruga Civic Cultural Project in Camagüey: Leonel Casas Díaz, Roger Cardoso and the Pedro Luis Boitel Independent Library. Nieves and Rainer Carmenate Madruga have joined Source: Radio República. José Daniel Ferrer García, Leoncio Rodríguez Villa Clara, June 30, 2006. Peaceful opposition Ponce, Lamberto Hernández Planas, Carlos Luis leader Pedro Cabrera Pacheco (Liván) arrived at the Díaz Fernández and Juan Carlos Herrera Acosta, Manicaragua police station to object to the 1,500- who have been fasting since early in June. peso fi ne handed to him more than 15 days prior Source: Idania Yánes Contreras, Marta Abreu for being caught in the street with a box fi lled with Women’s Movement. Radio República.

100 PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 101 JULY 2006 Havana, July 1, 2006. Twenty people attend Source: Luis Guerra Juvier, Nueva Prensa Cubana; the inauguration of the Pat Tillman Independent Julio Romero Muñoz, Freedom of Expression Library, part of the BIBIORED library network Solidarity Movement. project. The event takes place at the new library, Havana, July 2, 2006. The Ladies in White, the located at Calle Soledad No. 602 e/ Salud y Jesús wives, mothers, sisters and relatives of political Peregrino, in Havana. The inauguration features prisoners, go on their weekly pilgrimage to the Minardo Salgado, the president of the Cuba Santa Rita Church at 5ta. Avenida y 26, Miramar. Commission, an organization that supports the They pray for freedom for their imprisoned family use of civil disobedience as a means of resistance, members. as well as Belinda Salas of the Plantados Until Source: Laura Pollán, wife of jailed independent Freedom and Democracy in Cuba, and other leaders journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. Berta Soler, and community members without any political wife of political prisoner Ángel Moya Acosta. association. Havana, July 2, 2006. Members of the Cuban The director of the library, Julio Beltrán Iglesias, Liberal Movement meet in multiple homes around a former rafter who recently returned to Cuba, is Punta Brava, La Lisa, for vigils commemorating the a member of the Cuba Commission. He reads the fourth anniversary of the movement and to call for biography of Pat Tillman, an American football the immediate unconditional release of all political star and a volunteer soldier in the 75th Ranger prisoners. They also pray for the hunger striking Regiment of the U.S. army who died in Afghanistan. Guillermo Fariñas. The vigils are held at the homes ”Pat wanted to serve his people with a minimal of Punta Brava delegate Benítez Márquez, Avenida salary through his military career, turning down 249, No. 4614 e/ 46 y 48; Nereida Guillermina multimillion-dollar contracts with the Arizona Márquez Menéndez, Calle 50 #24508 e/ Avenida Cardinals. This is our modest homage to someone 247 y 245; and Maribel Macias Aguilar, Calle 50 y who has given his life for his country,” the librarian Final. said. Source: Silvio Benítez Márquez, Cuban Liberal Source: Ernesto Roque Cintero, UPECI. Cubanet. Movement. Havana, July 1, 2006. The 10th issue of the Camagüey, July 2, 2006. The Ladies in White, University Torch, an independent newsletter the wives, mothers, sisters and family members of is published. This bulletin, aimed at university political prisoners from Camagüey, attend Sunday students in the western part of the country and mass at the Santa Ana Church, located at General published by the Cuban Youths for Democracy Gómez # 400 esquina a Bembeta y Plaza de Santa Movement, includes articles titled “Something to Ana. The group pray for the release of all political Say…”, “Signals of a Happy Neighbor”, and “Does prisoners and prisoners of conscience. Racism Exist in Cuba?”, as well as a discussion Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political of Internet access in Cuba, poetry, letters and the prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. biography of José Antonio Echeverría. Cienfuegos, July 3, 2006. Political prisoner Source: Néstor Rodríguez Lobaina, Cuban Youths Ricardo Pupo Sierra, an activist with the Human for Democracy Movement. Rights Party in Cuba, sends a message to the Cuban Camagüey, July 1, 2006. Volume 4, Issue 28 of people to resist cooperating with the dictatorship. El Camagüeyano, an independent newsletter from “A nation is more than the will of one man, group the region, is published. This issue features an or party,” he said from his jail cell. “A nation is a article on the participation of the Ladies in White composition of many wills. A nation is the right of Camagüey and their supporters in the Santa Ana to rights, freedom, the diversity of ideas, criteria, Church. The newsletter also reports on the non- freedom of thought,” He calls on the Cuban nation cooperation campaign, complaints about social and to take to the streets in search of the truth and thus economic problems in the country, the details of gain freedom. the trial of Camagüey native and dissident Ernesto Source: Ricardo Pupo Sierra, Ariza Provincial Corría, and information on human rights. Prison. Gladys Linares Blanco, Women’s The José País García Free People of Cuba National Humanitarian Front. Radio República. Movement. Villa Clara, July 3, 2006. In a radio report,

102 Members of the Eastern Democratic Alliance and the Cuban Foundation of Human Rights gather in the Gastón Baquero Independent Library, in Banes, Holguín to celebrate United States Independence Day on July 4.

Alaín Ramón Gómez Ramos refers to the popularity hides and we will contribute with our small grain of the word “Change” and the fear and hate that it of sand to break down the information blockade inspires among the Revolution and its members. that the government has built up over the past half “Change resounds. It is spoken in the alleyway and century. expresses great need. The alarming situation facing Source: Liannis Meriño Aguilera, director, the Cuban people can no longer be accepted. Many Youth Without Censorship Press Agency. Radio wish for change,” he said. He reports that many República. dissidents use stickers with this word and post them Havana, July 4, 2006. The Neo-Catholic in visible places such as bicycles and the doors of Party makes public a declaration proclaiming the their homes. When no one is looking, the enemies group’s political-religious ideology. “We have two of change destroy the stickers. But they are posted fundamental doctrines: ﬁ rst, we embrace the faith again. “It does not matter that they rip them off the that it is necessary to free our country from this walls for they can never rip them from the hearts of dictatorship. And second, we are aware that the the millions of Cubans who want change.” struggle must be based here; in other words, we Source: Alain Ramón Gómez Ramos, Christian completely renounce emigration from this country,” Democratic Movement of Cuba. Cubanacán Press. said 49-year-old Gerardo Lezcano Naranjo, the Radio República. president of the Neo-Catholic Party. Holguín, July 3, 2006. Independent journalists Source: Juan Carlos Linares Balmaseda, Cubanet. with the Youth Without Censorship Press Agency Camagüey, July 4-17, 2006. Responding to send a message to the Cuban people following a the cruel and subhuman treatment they face, four series of repressive actions that the political police prisoners of conscience begin a hunger strike of has taken against the group: “The youths of this six hours everyday. Carlos Luis Díaz Fernández, Press Agency wish to inform the Cuban people that Lamberto Hernández Planas, Leoncio Rodríguez we will continue reporting all of what occurs in Ponce and Juan Carlos Herrera Acosta demand an every corner of this island so that the whole world end to the exile of Cuban political prisoners and a is aware of the Cuban reality that this government stop to mistreatment and aggression against them

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 103 by the military and paramilitary groups used to Censorship. Radio República. these ends, which has created a dangerous prison Havana, July 5, 2006. The Cuban Commission mafi a. on Human Rights and National Reconciliation, led Source: Marilyn Díaz Fernández, correspondent by former political prisoner Elizardo Sánchez Santa with Lux InfoPress in Camagüey and a member Cruz, present their semiannual report indicating of the Association for the Freedom of the Press. an unfavorable situation of civil and political Radio República. Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, rights in Cuba. The fi ve-page document stresses Guillermo Llano Ricardo, Eastern Democratic the negative human rights situation on the island. Alliance. Liannis Meriño Aguilera, Youth Without The list of 316 prisoners and others subjected to Censorship. the judicial process indicates that Cuba occupies Camagüey, July 4, 2006. The El Apóstol the fi rst place in the hemisphere in these types of Independent Library in Camagüey implements statistics, and also the fi rst place in most of the an innovative system to avoid persecution by the world in so-called “offenses against the state” and political police. “In homage to the 4th of July, the others with a political character. The report adds United States Independence Day, our library has that, of the cases that have been documented, the launched a library delivery service, created to put total number of prisoners fell from 333 to 316, the books and brochures that the government has but noted that variances above the 300 mark censored, into the hands of the citizenry, anything are virtually irrelevant. Such a level confi rms the they choose from a catalog of books,” explains government’s social control and its restrictions on librarian and former prisoner of conscience the freedom of opinion, expression, association and Alejandro Cabrera Cruz. “This way, people who peaceful protest. Amnesty International continues do not come to our independent library out of fear to recognize the number of prisoners of conscience of punishment can access the library’s circulation in Cuba at 81, estimated as among the highest in the with speed and safety because we bring the books to world, the report said. their homes.” Through this system, the library has The report also discusses the lack of other rights, been able to distribute the Universal Declaration of such as the prohibition of satellite television and Human Rights, biographies of famous democrats Internet access for Cubans. It also notes that the from the past and present, books on the United government’s justifi cation for these restrictions States, the history of Cuba and works from the is that ‘they are due to the unilateral sanctions world of literature. imposed by the United States’, but, in our opinion, Source: Reinaldo Cosano Alén, Lux InfoPress, this explanation is insuffi cient.” Cubanet. Source: Richard Roselló, Cubanet Holguín, July 4, 2006. Twelve activists from the Pinar del Río, July 6-8, 2006. The Western Cuban Human Rights Foundation and the Eastern Cultural Project, based at Calle 266 e/ Isabel Rojas Democratic Alliance hold an activity to celebrate y Proyecto, holds a fast in solidarity with Guillermo the 230th anniversary of independence in the “Coco” Fariñas and all political prisoners. Blanca United States. The event is carried out at the Gastón Rivera Sánchez, the acting president of the project, Baquero Independent Library, located at Calle says that the main objective of the these fasts is to Carlos Manuel de Céspedes # 2007 e/ Avenida de develop a consciousness of the serious situation Cárdenas y General Marrero, in Banes. faced by political prisoners in Cuban jails, above all Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, Eastern those that have been held for more than one year Democratic Alliance; Marta Díaz Rondón, Lucia without trial. Iñiguez Women’s Movement, Eastern Democratic Fuente: Mario Echaverría Driggs, Youths for Alliance, Director of the Gastón Baquero Democracy Press Agency. Radio República. Independent Library; Dayamis Romero Ortiz, Havana, July 8, 2006. The attorney of inde- human rights activist. pendent journalist Oscar Mario González requests Santiago de Cuba, July 4, 2006. A group of his client’s release after serving almost one year in fi fteen activists hold an 18-hour fast in solidarity prison without a trial. The petition argues that this with Guillermo Fariñas Hernández who is in measure is arbitrary and in violation of the law. The his 155th day of a hunger strike. Members of the prisoner’s family makes the legal petition public. dissident organizations the Cuban Human Rights Source: José Antonio Fornaris, Cuba Verdad, Foundation, the Cuban Farmers’ League and Cubanet. the Latin American Federation of Rural Women Havana, July 9, 2006. The Ladies in White, participate in the event. the wives, mothers, sisters and relatives of politi- Source: Ahmed Rodríguez Albacia, Youth Without cal prisoners go on their weekly pilgrimage to the

104 Members of the Punta Brava delegation of the Cuban Liberal Movement celebrate the fourth anniversary of its foundation with a vigil for freedom for all political prisoners. The newspaper La República, published by the Cuban Democratic Directorate, can be seen on the wall behind the activists.

Santa Rita Church at 5ta. Avenida y 26, Miramar. lives of numerous persons including 11 children. They pray for freedom for their imprisoned family The youngest had not even turned seven months. members. Fornaris, the director of the Cuba Verdad Press Source: Laura Pollán, wife of jailed independent Agency and a member of the Board of Directors of journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. Berta Soler, the Pro-Freedom of the Press Association, along wife of political prisoner Ángel Moya Acosta. with Moisés Leonardo Rodríguez, the primary or- Camagüey, July 9, 2006. The Ladies in White, ganizer of the Martí Current, and the attorney the wives, mothers, sisters and family members of Wilfredo Vallín, launched a campaign last summer political prisoners from Camagüey, attend Sunday for justice in this case.The letter from Fornaris to mass at the Santa Ana Church, located at General Alarcón expresses in the fi nal paragraph: “As the Gómez # 400 esquina a Bembeta y Plaza de Santa National Assembly of Peoples’ Power is the su- Ana. The group pray for the release of all political preme organ of the State, and as on more than one prisoners and prisoners of conscience. occasion we have heard them defi ne their position Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political in favor of justice and legality, we request through prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. you that the case of the ‘13th of March’ Tugboat, Havana, July 11, 2006. Independent journalist where more than 40 Cubans died, several of them José Antonio Fornaris sends an open letter to the children, have justice.” president of the Cuban parliament, Ricardo Alarcón, Source: Luis Cino, Cubanet. complaining that justice has not been carried out Matanzas, July 12, 2006. A pair of nonviolent against those responsible for sinking the “13th of dissidents hold a 24-hour fast in solidarity with March” Tugboat. Two days later 12 years would’ve hunger-striking independent journalist Guillermo been reached since the tragic event, which cost the Fariñas. Eufemio Álvarez la Fe y Luis Alberto Amaya PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 105 Fleitas hold their solemn event in Jagüey Grande. Source: Mario Izquierdo Sotolongo, Máximo Source: Lisette Zamora Carrandi, Marta Abreu Gómez Báez National Civic Movement. Women’s Movement. Radio República. Assembly Pinar del Río, July 13, 2006. Political prison- to Promote Civil Society in Cuba. ers Fidel Suárez Cruz, Diosdado González Marrero, Villa Clara, July 12, 2006. Noelia Pedraza Emilio Leyva, Javier Cabrera Pérez, Horacio Julio Jiménez, president of the Marta Abreu Women’s Piña, Normando Hernández, Eduardo Díaz Fleitas Movement of Santo Clara, shouts, “Down with and Manuel Pérez Soria, hold a 24-hour fase, in sol- Fidel!” when three men belonging to the paramili- idarity with hunger-striking independent journalist tary mobs physically assault her as she was walking Guillermo Fariñas, at the Kilo 5½ Prison. to her Santa Clara home. Source: Lisette Zamora Carrandi, Marta Abreu Source: Idania Yánes Contreras, Marta Abreu Women’s Movement. Radio República. Assembly Women’s Movement. to Promote Civil Society in Cuba. Villa Clara, July 12, 2006. Numerous dissidents Havana, July 13, 2006. The leaders of the Party from central Cuba attend a mass at the Church of for Human Rights of Cuba hold a pre-dawn memo- Carmen in Santa Clara. The mass is dedicated to rial for the victims of the 13th of March Tugboat the memory of the 13th of March Tugboat victims. crime. Ten people participate in the event, which is During the ceremony, the names of those who died hold at Calle Isabel, e/ Masó y Aranguren, Barrio in the massacre are read aloud. The following are Azul, Arroyo Naranjo. State Security offi cers sur- among the participants: Noelia Pedraza Jiménez, round the site. Idania Yánes Contreras, and Liset Zamora Carrandi, Source: Camilo Cairo Falcón, Party for Human Marta Abreu Women’s Movement; Bernardo Luís Rights. Radio República. Ascanio Camargo, Yuniesky García López, Cuban Havana, July 13, 2006. Ten members of the Liberal Party; Roque Emilio Martínez Angulo, National Center of Union and Labor Education hold Maceo Movement for Dignity; Idalberto González a symbolic event on the Havana shoreline in which Gómez, Civic Cuban Nationalist Movement. At the they toss fl owers into the sea to commemorate the end of the service, the dissidents are harassed and anniversary of the sinking of the 13th of March repressed during the evening by paramilitary mobs Tugboat, which occurred on this day in 1994. working for the government. Source: Víctor Manuel Domínguez García, National Source: Idania Yanes Contreras, Marta Abreu Center of Union and Labor Education ; Joel Brito, Women’s Movement, and Yuniesky García López, Group for Corporate Social Responsibility of Cuban Liberal Party. Cuba. Pinar del Río, July 13, 2006. Nineteen activ- Havana, July 13, 2006. Members of the Cuban ists with the Máximo Gómez Báez Civic Movement Liberal Party hold an activity in Havana to com- hold an event to condemn the sinking of the 13th of memorate the sinking of the 13th of March Tugboat. March Tugboat. The vigil takes place in the home of Fifteen activists participate in the event, hold at the Miguel Ángel Ramos Mesa-Blanco, Calle Los Pinos home of Reynaldo Hernández Cardona, at Falgueras Final, Gran Panel, #82, Reparto Hermanos Cruz. 413, e/ Lombillo y Pinera, El Cerro.

Activists from the Cuban Movement of Youths for Democracy celebrate the 15th anniversary of the organization they founded on July 16, 1991. The movement calls for University autonomy.

106 Laypeople outside the parish church of Our Lady of Carmen, in Cojímas, prepare to begin the procession in honor of the patron saint of ﬁ shermen and of this small town located east of Havana. The mass and procession took place on the feast day of the Virgin of Carmen, July 16.

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Source: Julia Cecilia Delgado, Reinaldo Hernández Eleven activists participate in the event at the home Cardona, Cuban Liberal Party. of Leonel Sanchez, located at Calle 10, Reparto Havana, July 13, 2006. Members of the Cuban Capri, 10 de octubre. Liberal Party hold an activity in Havana to com- Source: Julia Cecilia Delgado, Reinaldo Hernández memorate the sinking of the 13th of March Tugboat. Cardona, Cuban Liberal Party. Sixteen activists participate in the event at the Havana, July 13, 2006. On the 12th anniversary home of Hector Julio Cedeño, at Revillagigedo #6, of the sinking of the 13th of March Tugboat when Habana Vieja. the vessel was sunk eight miles off the shores of Source: Julia Cecilia Delgado, Reinaldo Hernández Havana by Cuban government tugboats, members Cardona, Cuban Liberal Party. of the Party for Human Rights hold a vigil at the Havana, July 13, 2006. Members of the Cuban home of activists Luis González Medina and Luz Liberal Party hold an activity in Havana to com- Marina Barceló, located at Avenida 40 # 2906 e/ 29 memorate the sinking of the 13th of March Tugboat. y 33 San José de las Lajas. They pray for the victims

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 107 who were cruelly murdered that day and demand this crime, which the Cuban authorities have labeled justice for their deaths. an accident. Throughout the vigil, uniformed guards Source: Luís González Medina and Julián Enrique from the Ministry of the Interior and paramilitary Martínez Báez, Party for Human Rights affi liated rapid response brigades closely look on. to the Andrei Sakharov Foundation. Source: Roberto Santana Rodríguez, independent Havana, July 13, 2006. Peaceful dissidents journalist. Radio República. Liannis Meriño Ahmed Rodríguez Albacia, Margarita Albacia Aguilera, Youth Without Censorship agency. Sánchez, Laid Hernández Albacia, William Cepera Cubanet. Juan Francisco Sigler Amaya, MIOA. García, Alejandro Albacia Sánchez, Araceli Vázquez Matanzas, July 13, 2006. A group of dissidents Walter, Magdalena Milián Gómez, Yurisel Pérez commemorate the sinking of the 13th of March Rodríguez, Yurisel Ortiz Rodríguez, Guillermo Tugboat along the northern coast of Matanzas. Guerra Rodríguez, Armando Pérez Mendoza, Kevin They cast fl oral offerings into the sea and sing the Ramos Velásquez, Dinora Figueredo González, national anthem. Jorge Luis Álvarez García, Tania Yandira Velásquez Ortega, Maribel Ortega Jiménez, Morejón, Ramón Verdecia, Andrés Govea, Rolando Milagros Pérez Jiménez and Eduardo Ochoa Wang Cepero, Eufemio Álvarez, Luis Amaya and Jiménez hold a 24-hour fast in solidarity with Alejandrina García de la Rivas participate in the hunger-striking independent journalist Guillermo event. Fariñas. Source: Jorge Luís Álvarez García, Peace, Love and Source: Lisette Zamora Carrandi, Marta Abreu Freedom Party, Matanzas; Alejandrina García Women’s Movement. Radio República. Assembly de la Riva, wife of political prisoner Diosdado to Promote Civil Society in Cuba. González Marrero. Havana, July 13, 2006. Ten members of the Villa Clara, July 13, 2006. Activists with the Democratic Party 30th of November “Frank País” Cuban Nationalist Civic Movement, Plantados hold a vigil to commemorate the fellow Cubans Until Freedom and Democracy in Cuba and the killed aboard the 13th of March Tugboat. The Independent Democratic Front cast a fl oral offering activists declare this day to be one of national and bouquets of fl owers into the Cubanicai and mourning under the motto, “The sea cries and the Biricú Rivers to commemorate the sinking of the 13th dead demand justice.” of March Tugboat and the murders of the innocent Source: Raiza Martínez, “Frank País” 30 th of Cubans aboard the vessel. They hold a moment of November Democratic Party, Havana. silence and condemn the brutal murder. Havana, July 13, 2006. Prisoner of conscience Source: Idalberto González Gómez, Nationalist Oscar Elías Biscet González launches a fast of Civic Movement. undefi ned length from his jail cell at the Combinado Villa Clara, July 13, 2006. Groups of nonviolent del Este Prison to demand that the Cuban dissidents hold a series of fasts in solidarity with government ratify, observe and apply international hunger-striking independent journalist Guillermo human rights agreements. Fariñas. Participating are: Oramis Díaz Corcho, Source: Carlos Serpa Maceira, Lux Info Press, Cuba- Lázaro Vega González, Juan Carlos Fernández Miami Information Bridge. Radio República. Morales, Orelvis Suárez Clavero, Julio Enrique Matanzas, July 13, 2006. Activists with the Pérez Rodríguez, Miguel Fernández Javier, Juan Alternative Option Independent Movement hold Carlos Suárez Corcho and José González Pérez in a vigil at their Pedro Betancourt headquarters to Quemado de Güines for 24 hours; Olga Lidia observe the 12th anniversary of the sinking of the González Barroso, Alexis Ohms Pérez and Aramilda 13th of March Tugboat. Contreras in Santa Clara for 12 hours; José Reyes Sixteen members of this nonviolent opposition Velásquez in Manicaragua for 24 hours; Iris Pérez organization sing the national anthem, pray for Aguilera, Amado Ruiz Moreno, Dora Lara Morales, the victims and their families, and recount reports Blas Fortún Martínez, Miguel García Hernández, Elia of this brutal deed. Caridad González recalls how Rosa Moreno, Ariel Rivero and Alejandro Gabriel government boats chased, crashed into and sank Martínez Martín in Placetas for 24 hours; Ángel the tugboat and then, assisted by another boat that Luis Bayardo Menas, Silvia Morales Pérez, Luis shot strong streams of water against the tugboat’s Silvano Agüero Hernández, Jorge Prieto Rodríguez, passengers, forced men, women and children into José Luis Díaz Castellanos, Cándido Eugenio García the water. Many of those who fell overboard died, Fuentes, Eliécer Hernández Cárdenas and Joan as no one rescued them. Rodríguez Morales in Báez for 24 hours. The event concludes with the participants Source: Lisette Zamora Carrandi, Marta Abreu committing to work toward justice for the victims of Women’s Movement. Radio República. Assembly

108 to Promote Civil Society in Cuba. his continued detention without trial. He has been Villa Clara, July 13, 2006. Peaceful opposition in jail since July 22, 2005. activists gather at the Christian Democratic Source: Lucas Garve, Foundation for the Freedom Movement of Cuba headquarters to commemorate of Expression. Lisette Zamora Carrandi, Marta the tragic sinking of the 13th of March Tugboat, Abreu Women’s Movement. Assembly to Promote which occurred in 1994. They sing the national Civil Society in Cuba. anthem and pray for the dead as well as for Sancti Spíritus, July 13, 2006. Activists from Guillermo Fariñas Hernández, who continues his the “Frank País” 30th of November Democratic hunger strike. They read some fragments about the Party and the Cuban Foundation for Human Rights vessel’s sinking from the book, “Fidel Revealed”. gather on the pedestrian walkway along the banks At the end of the event, activist Guillermo del Sol of the Yayabo River in Reparto Jesús María, Sancti Pérez reads from one of his eloquent and emotional Spíritus, to remember the sinking of the 13th of poems and leads those present in a moment of March Tugboat. They cast ﬂ owers into the river as a reﬂ ection. More than 12 members of the opposition symbol of the pain and fraternity with the brothers are present. and family members of these innocent people, Source: Alain Ramón Gómez Ramos, Christian drowned only because they sought a free land. Democratic Movement of Cuba. Radio República. Cards bearing biblical passages and small copies Cubanacán Press. of the New Testament are given out. They sing Villa Clara, July 13, 2006. Members of the the national anthem while calling for justice and nonviolent opposition of Manicaragua participate freedom for the people of Cuba. Eleven members of in a commemorative act to remember the sinking the group are present. of the 13th of March Tugboat. The opposition Source: Ana Margarita Perdigón Brito, “Frank organizations represented in the act are: the País” 30 th of November Democratic Party. The Independent Teachers’ Association of Cuba, the “Pedro Luis Boitel” Civic Resistance National Martí Youth Coalition, the Democratic Party 30th Movement. of November “Frank País”, and Plantados Until Ciego de Ávila, July 13, 2006. A group of Freedom and Democracy in Cuba. More than one nonviolent dissidents hold a 24-hour fast in dozen activists attend the event, hold at the home solidarity with hunger-striking independent of dissident Pedro Cabrera Pacheco Iván, Calle journalist Guillermo Fariñas. Participating in the Francisco Dámaso Rodríguez #2. event are: Julio Columbié Batista, Idel Pérez Díaz, Source: Alain Ramón Gómez Ramos. Christian Santa Pedroso González, Jenny Borgoñez Columbié, Democratic Movement of Cuba. Radio República. Yusney Columbié de Armas, Wilder Ávila Columbié, Cubanacán Press. Manuel Guerra Rodríguez, Juan Carlos González Sancti Spíritus, July 13, 2006. A group of Leyva, Luis Esteban Espinosa Echemendía, Tania nonviolent dissidents hold a fast in solidarity with Maseda Guerra, Marcelo Tilhert Pérez and Santa hunger-striking independent journalist Guillermo González Pedroso in Ciego de Avila while Rafael Fariñas. Bienvenido Perdigón Pacheco, Raimundo Rivas Ramírez joined in from Morón. Perdigón Brito, Ana Margarita Perdigón Brito, Jorge Source: Lisette Zamora Carrandi, Marta Abreu Perdigón Brito, Yasley Ortega Tejeda, Edel Peralta Women’s Movement. Radio República. Assembly Roche, Leonel Molina Labrada, Elvis Gregorio Pérez to Promote Civil Society in Cuba. Lara, Eric Mena Lara, Paula Lara Hurtado, Segundo Ciego de Ávila, July 13, 2006. A vigil takes Rey Cabrera González and Adriano Castañeda place at the headquarters of the Cuban Foundation Meneses fasted in Cabaigúan for 24 hours; and for Human Rights, located at Calle Honorato el Liborio Apolinar Borroto Monroy, Osmani Borroto Castillo #154, e/ República y Cuba, Ciego de Ávila. Rodríguez, Martha Cárdenas Alfonso, Yausli Prieto They read Psalm 22, “A cry of anguish and a song Cárdenas, Antonio Amarante, Ricardo Rivas Rivero, of praise”, and Chapter 3 of the Book of Job, which Lázaro Loredo Pérez, José Gerardo Morejón, Daniel discusses the virtue of patience and hope of those Cuadrado Domínguez and Belizardo Núñez fasted who believe in God. They talked about the suffering in Jatibonico for 12 hours. of the Cuban people, of the victims of the 13th of Source: Lisette Zamora Carrandi, Marta Abreu March Tugboat – the children in particular – and Women’s Movement. Radio República. Assembly they note that these are not the only victims of the to Promote Civil Society in Cuba. regime but that many persons have disappeared at Sancti Spíritus, July 13, 2006. Opposition sea, drowned by the Cuban Coast Guard. activist René Gómez Manzano, jailed in the Nieves The Cuban Foundation for Human Rights calls for Morejón Prison, declares a hunger strike to protest July 13th to be a national day of mourning in Cuba,

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 109 as a symbol of what occurred on that day in 1994 Press Agency, Cubanet. Radio República. and as a reminder of all those who have perished at Holguín, July 13, 2006. Activists with the Cuban sea while trying to escape from Cuba or have been Foundation for Human Rights and the Eastern killed by the Cuban Coast Guard. Democratic Alliance in Banes pay homage to the Source: Juan Carlos González Leiva, Cuban victims of the 13th of March Tugboat at Morales Foundation for Human Rights. Radio República. Beach. They pray for the victims, toss fl owers to Holguín, July 13, 2006. Members of the “Pedro the sea and hold a moment of silence in honor Luis Boitel” Civic Resistance National Movement of the victims. Marta Díaz Rondón, Juan Oriol in Moa deposit fl owers in the sea to pay tribute to Verdecia Evora, Santo Alberto Escalona Blanco, the victims of the 13th of March Tugboat. At the Eulalio Batista Cruz, Gloria Oliva, Danny Batista same time, they observe a moment of silence for the Cruz, Alfredo Rojas Gallo, Maria Margarita Cruz innocent souls lost at sea. The event takes place in Batista, Benigno Pérez Santiesteban, Sergio Abreu Reparto La Playa. Pedro Terrero Leyva, Omar Suárez Paz, Idalmis Desdin Salguero, Bárbara Ortiz Piris, García, Alejandro Arauda Martínez, José Manuel de Dayamis Romero and Yosvani Ricardo Cruz take la Rosa Pérez, Wilfredo Legrá Frómeta, Atilano Rey part in the event. The solemn activity takes place at Cutiño and Bárbara Presort Verdecia, all take part in Playita de Torrenteras, a beach located along this the solemn activity. In the same municipality, from municipality. other points along the port, numerous activists also Source: Marta Díaz Rondón, Lucia Iñiguez toss fl owers into the sea in memory of the victims Women’s Movement, Eastern Democratic Alliance, of that tragic incident. Augusto Hernández de los Director of the Gastón Baquero Independent Ángeles, Edel Jesús Hernández Reyes, Mario Brocal Library; Dayamis Romero Ortiz, human rights Borges, Osiel Olivares Tito, Omar Pérez Torres, activist. Francisco Hernández Gómez, Héctor Silot Rueda, Holguín, July 13, 2006. Activists with the Miguel Molina Durán, Solemni Abad Alpajón, Cuban Foundation for Human Rights and the Felipe Disnay Ramos Leyva and María Ester Blanco Eastern Democratic Alliance in Banes pay homage Aguirre participate. to the victims of the 13th of March Tugboat. They Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, Eastern march towards the Bay of Banes and, at the location Democratic Alliance. Juan Carlos Garcell Pérez, known as Embarcadero, cast fl owers into the sea Oriente Province Free Press Agency. Felipe D. in memory of the victims. They hold a moment of Ramos Leiva, Oriente Province Free Press Agency, silence and pray for the eternal rest of those killed Cubanet. Radio República. in this tragic incident. The march is held early in Holguín, July 13, 2006. Members of the “Pedro the morning to evade the vigilance of the Rapid Luis Boitel” Civic Resistance National Movement Response Brigades that have been mobilized to try in Moa meet to commemorate the victims of the to prevent the action. 13th of March Tugboat. They meet at Calle Camilo Ten human rights activists participate in the event, Cienfuegos #12, Reparto La Playa. Silverio Herrera and in reading a document that advocates increasing Acosta, Omar Wilson Estévez Real, Mario Antonio efforts in the struggle for the democratization of Brocal Borges, Miguel Molina Durán, Anabel Cuba so that events such as the sinking of this vessel González Mendez, Martiza Cardoza Romero and are not repeated. Osiel Olivares Tito are presents. Source: Liannis Meriño Aguilera. Youth Without Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, Eastern Censorship Press Agency. Radio República. Democratic Alliance. Juan Carlos Garcell Pérez Santiago de Cuba, July 13, 2006. A group Holguín, July 13, 2006. Activists from the of nonviolent dissidents hold a 24-hour fast in Eastern Democratic Alliance commemorate yet solidarity with hunger-striking independent another anniversary of the sinking of the 13th journalist Guillermo Fariñas. Gualdimar Parra of March Tugboat by the totalitarian regime by Santana, Maura Iset González Urquet, Pelango de casting offerings from the location known as the Jesús Cajilde Laite, José Armando Estrada Varela, Bridge of Miguel in Sagua de Tánamo. Francisco Jenny Estrada Forjón, Neysa Julia Laite Beatón, Ferrer Columbié, José A. Bárzaga Cordero, Rubildo Israel Forguer Acosta, Pedro Enríquez Martínez de la Cruz Roche, Luis Leyva Cortiña, Rafael Mesa Machado, Yiosvani Zamora Alba, Maidelis Cardona Columbié and Yirina Texidó Díaz take part in the Alemán, Eilán Forguer Acosta and Isabel Forguer event. Cárdenas fast in San Luis, while Teresa Francisca Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, Eastern Ramau, Celia Blanca Rigal and Adrían San Emeterio Democratic Alliance. Juan Carlos Garcell Pérez Ramón fast in Songo La Maya. and Felipe D. Ramos Leiva, Oriente Province Free Source: Lisette Zamora Carrandi, Marta Abreu

110 Women’s Movement. Radio República. Assembly Ana. The group pray for the release of all political to Promote Civil Society in Cuba. prisoners and prisoners of conscience. Guantánamo, July 13, 2006. Political prisoners Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political Jesús Mustafá Felipe, Claro Sánchez Altarriba, prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. Alberto Martínez Fernández and Alfredo Noa Guantánamo, July 16, 2006. Members of the Estupiñán, hold a 24-hour fast at the Combinado Cuban Youths Movement for Democracy meet de Guantánamo prison in solidarity with hunger- to celebrate the fi fteenth anniversary of their striking independent journalist Guillermo Fariñas. organization, singing the national anthem and Guantánamo, July 13, 2006. A group of remembering the organization’s period of struggle. nonviolent dissidents hold a 12-hour fast in solidarity They pay homage to José Antonio Echevarría, with hunger-striking independent journalist Alberto Tapia Ruano, Virgilio Campanería, and Guillermo Fariñas. Yordis García Fournier, Yanet Pedro Luis Boitel, as well as imprisoned activists Mosqueda Cayón, Leonor Padilla Navarro and such as Juan Carlos Herrera Acosta, Claro Sánchez Herminia Ramírez Jiméne, with the Cuban Youths Altarriba, Carlos Luís Díaz Fernández, Yordelis for Democracy Movement, participate in the event. Duvalón Guiver Ortiz, Oswaldo Rams de la Cruz, and Source: Lisette Zamora Carrandi, Marta Abreu Randy Cabrera Mayor. The group also recognizes Women’s Movement. Radio República. Assembly the Cuban martyrs who have given their lives to to Promote Civil Society in Cuba. achieve a prosperous life, free from the strident Havana, July 14, 2006. Signs appear along the ideologies and repression of the communist regime. Havana-Melena highway reading, “Down with They stress the importance of Cuba’s university inspection points,” and, “We don’t want inspection students as the foundation for an open civil society points in our region”. The signs appear in response and as a challenge for future generations in the to the government’s installation of inspection points training of professionals, as well as the teaching at the exits of some cities and towns to register those of ethical and moral values that will drive Cuba to who move packages. complete freedom. They recall the victims of student Source: Luís González Medina, Party for repression in Cuba and throughout the world. Human Rights affi liated to the Andrei Sakharov The Universities Without Borders project, which Foundation. Radio República. is centered on reforms for university autonomy Camagüey, July 14, 2006. Members of the in Cuba, remains the base of their work and the Freedom of Expression Solidarity Movement hold changes that today’s Cuba demands, they said. a joint meeting with the provincial coordinator During the event, a group of government operatives of the Christian Democratic Party of Camagüey, attempt to block the activity, but are rebutted by the Roberto Marrero la Rosa. The activists share their resistance and stalwartness of those gathered. experiences and discuss the need for increased Source: Néstor Rodríguez Lobaina, Cuban Youths cooperation between the two independent civil for Democracy Movement. society organizations. They also address the issue Pinar del Río, July 17, 2006. Seventeen of humanitarian assistance for political prisoners independent trade unionists hold a 12-hour fast and their family members, with all organizations at the CONIC offi ce in Pinar del Río to support the committing their support. cause of Dr. Oscar Elias Biscet, who is serving time Source: Julio Romero Muñoz, Freedom of in prison for his work in opposition to abortion and Expression Solidarity Movement. the death penalty. The activists say that they were Havana, July 16, 2006. The Ladies in White, adopting the campaign for the immediate release of the wives, mothers, sisters and relatives of political Dr. Biscet. prisoners go on their weekly pilgrimage to the Source: José Félix Rodríguez Rodríguez, CONIC; Santa Rita Church at 5ta. Avenida y 26, Miramar. Ramón Suarez Diaz, Democratic Party 30th of They pray for freedom for their imprisoned family November “Frank País”; José A. Ballart Ochoa, members. The Free People of Cuba National Movement. Source: Laura Pollán, wife of jailed independent Camagüey, July 17-26, 2006. The Ladies in journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. Berta Soler, White of this province participate in a novena for wife of political prisoner Ángel Moya Acosta. Saint Anne in the Santa Ana Church in Camagüey. Camagüey, July 16, 2006. The Ladies in White, “We march along the entire Avenida General the wives, mothers, sisters and family members of Gómez to the church carrying fl owers,” says Rebeca political prisoners from Camagüey, attend Sunday Rodríguez Souto, the wife of Dr. Alfredo Pulido mass at the Santa Ana Church, located at General López, a Camagüey native who was among the 75 Gómez # 400 esquina a Bembeta y Plaza de Santa activists imprisoned in 2003. “We will lay these

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 111 fl owers at the feet of the Virgin and ask for freedom Havana, July 18, 2006. Twenty members of for all political prisoners in Cuba. We do this with the National Center of Union and Labor Education the great hope that all of them may soon be in their hold a vigil for the release of imprisoned union homes.” She adds that, at the end of the mass, the organizers in poor health. The event takes place at Ladies will join hands and march about the church the organization’s offi ce, located at Calle San José grounds, noting the progress they have made in #564 e/ Lealtad y Escobar, in Havana. gaining space and recognition within the religious Source: Víctor Manuel Domínguez García, National community. Center of Union and Labor Education. Joel Brito, Source: Luis Guerra Juvier, Nueva Prensa Cubana. Group for Corporate Social Responsibility of Radio República. Cuba. Holguín, July 17, 2006. Activists with the Matanzas, July 18, 2006. Six members of the Eastern Democratic Alliance dissident organization Peace, Love and Freedom Party hold a vigil for the in Banes hold an activity as part of the humanitarian release of Cuban political prisoners at the Gustavo assistance project “Hands of Love,” consisting of Arcos Bergnes Library, which is in the home of offering spiritual and material assistance to those Eufemio Álvarez la Fe, Calle 30 e/ 25 y 33 #2524, people who are precariously exposed or ignored by Torriente, Jagüey Grande. the island nation’s current government, such as the Source: Jorge Luís Álvarez García, Peace, Love and physically handicapped, the elderly, children and Freedom Party, Matanzas; Alejandrina García those with serious illnesses. de la Riva, wife of political prisoner Diosdado In this instance, they hold a cultural activity to González Marrero. celebrate the sixth birthday of a child suffering Camagüey, July 18, 2006. Around seven people, from numerous illnesses, including heart failure. including Ladies in White, family members of His family lives in extreme poverty, his mother is political prisoners and activists, gather at the home physically disabled and his father is mentally ill. of Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, the wife of political Yet, thanks to the group, Octavio Sánchez Rojas prisoner Alfredo Pulido López, to say the rosary and happily enjoys his birthday together with his pray for all of the political prisoners and prisoners new family members, who have followed his of conscience in Cuba. development for the past two years. The party takes Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political place at the child’s home, at Bajada de Rondón prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. #195, Banes. Martha Díaz Rondón, a human rights Camagüey, July 18, 2006. The Pedro Luis activist who partakes in the celebration, says that Boitel Cuban Political Imprisonment Movement the Banes chapter of Eastern Democratic Alliance releases its Declaration of Principles, in which the will continue sponsoring such events for the most organization made of political prisoners expresses precarious and poor who have been victims of its support for the measures presented by the U.S. government negligence for more than 46 years. government’s Commission for a Free Cuba. The Source: Liannis Meriño Aguilera, Youth Without group also urges President George W. Bush to Censorship, Cubanet. implement the commission’s measures. “Cuban Havana, July 18, 2006. Wives and family political prisoners, conscious of the intolerance and members of political prisoners gather at the home lack of political will of the Havana regime, supports of Laura Pollán, the wife of jailed independent all actions that pressure the dictator to concede journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. The “Literary greater openness with the objective of implementing Tea” is an opportunity to share letters written by in Cuba a democratic system governed by rule of law, the political prisoners and for the wives and family in which all citizens can go about their lives without members to comment on the specifi c situations of any interference but the most minimal limitations, their loved ones. where they will be guaranteed the inalienable Source: Laura Pollán, wife of jailed independent choices and liberties to which they, as humans, are journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. entitled,” the document said. “We further support Havana, July 18, 2006. Fourteen members of the all initiatives that support or assist the democratic Cuban Liberal Party met to hold a fast in support of forces within Cuba that, in an unequal battle of political prisoners. The fast takes place at the home titanic proportions, struggles and resists against of activist Julia Cecilia Delgado, who lives at 20 the totalitarian hordes of hate and oppression.” The de mayo #53 Apt. B14 e/ Línea y Marta Abreu, El declaration accuses the Cuban government and the Cerro, in Havana. offi cial state media of distorting the purposes of the Source: Julia Cecilia Delgado, Reinaldo Hernández U.S. commission and of misleading the people of Cardona, Cuban Liberal Party. Cuba to believe that it represents a military threat

112 from the United States. Union and Labor Education begin offering a Labor The following prisoners sign the document: from the Organizing Course in this province. The objective Kilo 7 Prison in Camagüey, Armando Sosa Fortuna, of the course is to begin preparing those who may Ángel Tejeda Rodríguez, Alejandro González Fraga, become the country’s future labor leaders. María Jesús Rojas Pineda, Alfredo Pulido López, Ramón Elena Mir Marrero conducts the 12-class course, Delgado Prieto, and Jorge Luis García Pérez Antúnez; which is being offered at the center’s local branch, at from the nearby Kilo 8 Prison, Juan Carlos Herrera Calle 5ta Avenida D #47812, e/ 478 y 480, Guanabo, Acosta, Carlos Luis Díaz Fernández and Leoncio Habana del Este. Rodríguez Ponce; from the Cerámica Roja Prison Source: Víctor Manuel Domínguez García, National in the same province, Egberto Escobedo Morales Center of Union and Labor Education . Joel Brito, and René Montes de Oca Martíja; from the Holguín Group for Corporate Social Responsibility of Provincial Prison, Andy Frómeta Cuenca; from Cuba. Nieves Morejón, in Sancti Spíritus, Pedro Molinero Havana, July 20, 2006. The National Center of Urbi; from the Boniato Prison in Santiago de Cuba, Union and Labor Education begins offering a Labor Francisco Herodes Díaz Echemendía; from Ariza Organizing Course in this province. The objective Prison in Cienfuegos, Luis Cueto Echevarría; From of the course is to start preparing those who may the Combinado del Este, in Havana, Rafael Ibarra become the country’s future labor leaders. Enrique Roque; and from the Agüica Prison in Matanzas, Pérez González conducts the 12-class course, which Mario Pérez Aguilera, who remains in a prolonged is offered at the center’s local branch, at Calle Bazo hunger strike. The members and executive board #1 Altos, e/ Pereira y Hambrón, Regla. of the Civic Resistance National Movement “Pedro Source: Víctor Manuel Domínguez García, National Luis Boitel” also sign the declaration. Center of Union and Labor Education .Joel Brito, Source: Jorge Luis García Pérez “Antúnez”, from Group for Corporate Social Responsibility of Kilo 7, Camagüey. Cuba. Santiago de Cuba, July 18, 2006. Belkis Havana, July 20 - August 29, 2006. The Cantillo, Amelia García Vega, Ana Belkis Ferrer National Center of Union and Labor Education García, Gerardo Miranda, Yuniel Santos de la Cruz begins offering a Labor Organizing Course and Norberto Díaz Peña pray the rosary at the home throughout the country. The objective of the course of Ana Belkis Ferrer García, Calle 7 Final # 318, is to start preparing those who may become the Loma Blanca, Palmarito de Cauto. country’s future labor leaders. The course is given at Source: Ana Belkis Ferrer García, sister of the the center’s headquarters, located at San José #564, imprisoned Ferrer García brothers and member of Altos, e/ Lealtad y Escobar, Centro Habana, as well the Christian Liberation Movement. as at 10 different branches throughout the country. Pinar del Río, July 20, 2006. The National Participants attend the twice-weekly classes for six Center of Union and Labor Education begin weeks. offering a Labor Organizing Course in this province. Source: Víctor Manuel Domínguez García, National The objective of the course is to begin to prepare Center of Union and Labor Education .Joel Brito, those who may become the country’s future labor Group for Corporate Social Responsibility of leaders. The course is given at the center’s branch, Cuba. at Calle Celso Maragoto #143-A, e/ Coronel Pozo y Havana, July 20, 2006. The Party for Human Avellaneda. Rights affi liated to the Andrei Sakharov Foundation Source: Víctor Manuel Domínguez García, National holds a political-cultural event to commemorate Center of Union and Labor Education . Joel Brito, the 18th anniversary of the party’s founding. They Group for Corporate Social Responsibility of recognize the many years of struggle and recommitt Cuba. themselves to tirelessly work until the day when Havana, July 20, 2006. During the morning Cuba is free and human rights are respected without hours, a sign from the Party for Human Rights exception throughout the island. These are the basic affi liated to the Andrei Sakharov Foundation principles for which this organization was founded appears at Calle 289 e/ 135 y 136, Reparto and towards which it has worked to this date. Berenguer, Calabazar. Police and members of the Source: Luís González Medina and Julián Enrique paramilitary Rapid Response Brigades are present Martínez Báez, Party for Human Rights Party at the location. affi liated to the Andrei Sakharov Foundation. Source: Camilo Cairo Falcón, Boyeros Delegate to Havana, July 20, 2006. The National Center of the Party for Human Rights. Radio República. Union and Labor Education begins offering a Labor Havana, July 20, 2006. The National Center of Organizing Course in this province. The objective

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 113 of the course is to start preparing those who may Magalys Hernández Hernández conducts the 12- become the country’s future labor leaders. Emilio class course, which was given at the center’s local González Torres conducts the 12-class course, which branch at Ediﬁ cio 33, Apt. 35, Reparto Villa Nueva. is given at the center’s local branch at Avenida 89 Source: Víctor Manuel Domínguez García, National #4416 e/ 44 y 46, Alturas del Río, Güines. Center of Union and Labor Education , Joel Brito, Source: Víctor Manuel Domínguez García, National Group for Corporate Social Responsibility of Center of Union and Labor Education .Joel Brito, Cuba. Group for Corporate Social Responsibility of Granma, June 20, 2006. The National Center Cuba. of Union and Labor Education has begun offering Villa Clara, July 20, 2006. Political prisoner a Labor Organizing Course in this province. The Guillermo Fariñas Hernández calls on his fellow objective of the course is to start preparing those dissidents to cease their permanent fast and fast only who may become the country’s future labor leaders. sporadically. According to Idania Yanes Contreras, Gabriel Díaz Sánchez conducts the 12-class course, the coordinator of the Marta Abreu Women’s which is given at the center’s local branch at Calle Movement, the hunger-striking independent Raúl Gómez García #278, e/ Guillermo Tornés y C, journalist said, “We need opposition activists out in Reparto la Unión, Bayamo. the street; we cannot continue here in our houses. Source: Víctor Manuel Domínguez García, National We need to take the opposition to the street, which is Center of Union and Labor Education ,Joel Brito, exactly what State Security does not want.” Fariñas Group for Corporate Social Responsibility of was referring to the permanent fast that members Cuba. of the opposition in Santa Clara engage in for his Santiago de Cuba, July 20, 2006. The National health. Center of Union and Labor Education have begun Source: Idania Yanes, Contreras. Radio offering a Labor Organizing Course in this province. República. The objective of the course is to start preparing those Camagüey, July 20, 2006. The National Center who may become the country’s future labor leaders. of Union and Labor Education begins offering Antonio Viñalet conducts the 12-class course, which a Labor Organizing Course in this province. The is given at the center’s local branch at Calle San objective of the course is to start preparing those Basilio #357, e/ Carnicería y San Félix. who may become the country’s future labor leaders. Source: Víctor Manuel Domínguez García, National Marilín Díaz Fernández conducts the 12-class Center of Union and Labor Education , Joel Brito, course, which is given at the center’s local branch Group for Corporate Social sponsibility of Cuba. at Calle Luis Aldana #98, e/ Cándido González y Havana, July 23, 2006. The Ladies in White, William Soler, Sibanicú. the wives, mothers, sisters and relatives of political Source: Víctor Manuel Domínguez García, prisoners, go on their weekly pilgrimage to the Santa National Center of Union and Labor Education Joel Rita Church at 5ta. Avenida y 26, Miramar. They Brito, Group for Corporate Social Responsibility of pray for the release of Cuba’s political prisoners and Cuba. prisoners of conscience. Las Tunas, July 20, 2006. The National Center Source: Laura Pollán, wife of jailed independent of Union and Labor Education has begun offering journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. Berta Soler, a Labor Organizing Course in this province. The wife of political prisoner Ángel Moya Acosta. objective of the course is to start preparing those Camagüey, July 23, 2006. The Ladies in White, who may become the country’s future labor leaders. the wives, mothers, sisters and family members of Juan Ramón Morales Ortiz conducts the 12-class political prisoners from Camagüey, attend Sunday course, which is given at the center’s local branch mass at the Santa Ana Church, located at General at Calle José Aguilera #87 Altos, e/ 36 y Sendero, Gómez # 400 esquina a Bembeta y Plaza de Santa Las Tunas. Ana. The group prays for the release of all political Source: Víctor Manuel Domínguez García, National prisoners. Center of Union and Labor Education , Joel Brito, Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political Group for Corporate Social Responsibility of prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. Cuba. Granma, July 23, 2006. Nonviolent dissident Holguín, July 20, 2006. The National Center Yoandris Gutiérrez Vargas takes down a paper ﬂ ag of Union and Labor Education has begun offering that members of the Committee for the Defense of a Labor Organizing Course in this province. The the Revolution have hung on the door of his house objective of the course is to start preparing those in Bayamo in the lead-up to the July 26 holidays. who may become the country’s future labor leaders. Gutiérrez Vargas paints the number “75” on the

114 ADALBERTO ROQUE/AFP/GETTY IMAGES.

Independent journalists Carlos Serpa Fariñasʼ life was in danger in The hunger strike by Guillermo Fariñas was Maceira (left) and Guillermo Fariñas. July, six months into his hunger reported in the international press. “Internet Date of photo unknown. Both have strike to protest about not Censorship/Permission Denied”. This photo was succeeded in overcoming censorship. having access to the Internet. published in “Business Week” in 2006.

EFE/Alejandro Ernesto

Alicia Hernández, mother of the independent journalist Guillermo Fariñas, director of the independent press agency Cubanacán Press, reported to the press agency EFE July 17 2006, that her son was into his sixth month on hunger strike. The interview took place in the home of Hernández and her son, in the city of Santa Clara, in the province of Villa Clara. Fariñas, a 43-year- old psychologist, began a hunger strike on January 31 to demand unrestricted access to the Internet for all Cubans.

ﬂ ag in black, a reference to the March 2003 wave of begin in the Pinar del Río province in solidarity repression, and hangs it up again. with the political prisoners and, in particular, with Source: Gabriel Díaz Sánchez, Bayamo Youth Guillermo Fariñas Hernández, who has been on a Movement; Marilín Díaz Fernández, Lux Info hunger strike since January 31 to demand Internet Press; Cubanet. access for all Cubans. Pinar del Río, July 24, 2006. A chain of fasts Source: Mario Echavarría Driggs, Youths for

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 115 Democracy Press Bureau. Radio República. system. The youths here receive no reeducation; Havana, July 24, 2006. A book of condolences that does not exist here… youth is wasted inside is started at the headquarters of the Independent these walls.” Teachers Association of Cuba (CPIC) in response Source: Liannis Meriño Aguilera, independent to the death of Dr. Rolando Espinosa, in Miami, journalist, Youth Without Censorship Press Agency. an exiled Cuban teacher. Roberto de Miranda, Radio República. president of the association, who was out of jail on Camagüey, July 26, 2006. Common prisoner conditional release, said of his late fellow teacher, Alfonso Espinosa begins a hunger strike to demand “We are saddened by the loss of Dr. Espinosa. We medical attention for his delicate health, a result of hold in our hearts the gratitude we feel for this his multiple illnesses. The most pressing concern great Cuban teacher, for all of the support he has is his left liver, a condition for which he has been given Cuban teachers expelled from the Cuban awaiting an operation for more than two years. educational system because of their beliefs.” According to José Daniel Ferrer García, one of the Source: Roberto Santana Rodríguez, Cubanet. 75 dissidents arrested in 2003, Espinosa is inspired Ciego de Ávila, July 24, 2006. Independent to start the hunger strike after the chief warden journalist and political prisoner Pablo Pacheco Ávila of the Kilo 8 prison threatened to beat him if he sends a message of faith and hope to the Cuban continued protesting. people from his prison cell in the city of Morón. He Source: Liannis Meriño Aguilera, independent also describes the horrid conditions of life in jail. journalist, Youth Without Censorship Press Pacheco Ávila is a member of the Ciego de Ávila Agency. Independent Journalists Cooperative. Source: Camagüey, July 27, 2006. The blind attorney Roberto Santana Rodríguez, independent Juan Carlos González Leiva, president of the Cuban journalist. Radio República. Foundation for Human Rights, calls on the Cuban Granma, June 24, 2006. The nonviolent government to grant conditional release to the opposition activist Enrique Piñeiro hangs up a sign prisoner Roger Cardoso Nieves. The 43-year-old with the word, “Change”, on the door of his home political prisoner recently held a hunger strike that in Manzanillo. Authorities order him to remove the led to his falling into a state of dementia. He bases sign, but he refuses and leaves it hanging. The 40- his petition on the fact that “the prisoner presents year-old dissident is a member of the Guacanayabo clear signs of insanity, such as that he refuses to Gulf Union of Human Rights Activists, which is led sleep in a bed and embraces a Bible, repeating: “God by Julio Antonio Valdés Guevara. have mercy on me,” González Leiva said, noting Source: Roberto Santana Rodríguez. Cubanet. that Cardoso does not even recognize close family Villa Clara, July 25, 2006. Anti-government members. Cardoso’s mother, Beatriz Nieves, who grafﬁ ti appears around the city of Santa Clara. lives in Reparto Montecarlo, Camagüey, says that “Down with Fidel!” was scrawled throughout the she is depressed and desperate regarding her son’s La Espinaca market and on buildings in Reparto condition, noting that he does not even react when Virginia. Police and onlookers rush to the scene as she talks to him about his 16-year-old daughter and government workers quickly paint over the words 13-year-old son. to make the slogans disappear. It is particularly Source: Marilín Díaz Fernández, Lux Info Press, noteworthy that the grafﬁ ti appears in the midst of Cubanet. preparations for the government-organized July 26 Pinar del Río, July 28, 2006. Alberto Hernández celebrations. Suárez, the president of the Union of Democratic Source: Bernardo Luis Arcanio. Radio República. Youths of Cuba, sends a letter to Cuban Foreign Camagüey, July 25, 2006. Political prisoner Minister Felipe Pérez Roque explaining that he was Juan Carlos Herrera Acosta, one of the 75 dissidents sentenced to a year in jail for the alleged crime of rounded up in the spring of 2003, speaks out against social dangerousness and is presently serving his the falseness of the Cuban penitentiary system and sentence at the Taco Taco Prison in this province, the reeducation of convicts. “According to Fidel suffering subhuman food and hygiene conditions. Castro, jails will be turned into schools, but instead, In his letter, he alleges that the accusation of social the youths kept here are turned into true masters dangerousness is an arbitrary crime based on the in the use of arms, as they are forced to learn how concern that the accused is likely to commit a crime to defend themselves. Here, youths lose more than in the future. He notes that he has never committed their freedom; in these centers of degradation, they a crime in the past nor could he commit one in the lose their hope. Here, the young are not reformed; future. He concludes his letter by urging the foreign on the contrary… there is really no reeducation minister to apply justice in his case.

116 Source: Roberto Santana Rodríguez, independent Abreu Paz, Nancy Rojas Feria, Andrés Pérez Peña journalist. Radio República. and Mario Rojas Feria participate in the service. Havana, July 30, 2006. The Ladies in White, Source: Marta Díaz Rondón, Lucia Iñiguez the wives, mothers, sisters and relatives of political Women’s Movement, Eastern Democratic Alliance, prisoners go on their weekly pilgrimage to the Santa Director of the Gastón Baquero Independent Rita Church at 5ta. Avenida y 26, Miramar. They Library; Dayamis Romero Ortiz, human rights pray for the release of their unjustly imprisoned activist. husbands. Villa Clara, July 31, 2006. Human rights activists Source: Laura Pollán, wife of jailed independent from the Marta Abreu Women’s Movement journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. Berta Soler, in Santa Clara shout pro-democracy slogans wife of political prisoner Ángel Moya Acosta. at government mobs who had surrounded the Havana, July 30, 2006. The national executive homes of Noelia Pedraza Jiménez and Idania board of the “Frank País” 30th of November Yánes Contreras following the announcement Democratic Party attend an event commemorating that Fidel Castro had temporarily passed power the anniversary of the death of Frank País, a leader to his brother, Raúl. The incident takes place at of the Cuban youth. They meet at the home of party Ediﬁ cio 10, Apt. 5, Reparto José Martí, the home member Anaika Paneca Román, located at Calle of Noelia Pedraza Jiménez, and at Prolongación 12 #14619 e/ 3ra. y 5ta., Alturas de Diezmero, San de Marta Abreu #93 C, e/ B y C, Reparto Virginia, Miguel del Padrón, Havana. the home of Idania Yánes Contreras. Source: Raiza Martínez, “Frank País” 30 th of Source: Idania Yánes Contreras, Marta Abreu November Democratic Party, Havana. Women’s Movement. Camagüey, July 30, 2006. The Ladies in White, Granma, July 31, 2006. The national executive the wives, mothers, sisters and family members of committee of the Democratic Solidarity Party political prisoners from Camagüey, attend Sunday (PSD) issues a declaration after hearing Fidel mass at the Santa Ana Church, located at General Castro’s announcement regarding his surgery. Gómez # 400 esquina a Bembeta y Plaza de Santa “For 47 years, we have been witnesses of all Ana. The group prays for the release of all political the manipulations of the Cuban government and prisoners and prisoners of conscience. even though it is very possible that the Cuban Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political governor’s sickness is true, the PSD observes these prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. developments with great caution. We believe that Holguín, July 30, 2006. Activists from the it would be unwise to raise false expectations; we Human Rights Foundation of Cuba and the Eastern already have had many experiences with similar Democratic Alliance observe a prayer service at the situations and now, more than ever, the Cuban Our Lady of Charity Church in Banes to pray for opposition must demonstrate all of the political national unity and reconciliation. maturity it possesses and react shrewdly regarding They pray for political prisoners and their family the truly historic and decisive moment that the members before the Virgin and lay a white ﬂ oral nation now faces… It is now time to create the offering at her feet. Marta Díaz Rondón, Juan Oriol light for Cubans to be able to freely choose how Verdecia Evora, Maikel Verdecia Torres, Alfredo we want to live and what type of government we Rojas Gallo, Santo Alberto Escalona Blanco, wish to have. Surely, we shall choose democracy, Bárbara Ortiz Piris, Dayamis Romero Ortiz, Arnaldo economic freedom and respect for human Exposito Zaldivar, Benigno Pérez Santiesteban, rights.” Idalmis Desdín Salguero, Sergio Abreu Paz, Randall Source: Democratic Solidarity Party, Cubanet.

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 117 118 AUGUST 2006

Camagüey, August 1, 2006. Volume 4, Issue 29 Rosa, Isabel Lago Grete, Juan Carlos Soto, Marta of the El Camagüeyano, an independent newsletter Benítez, Tomás Brian and Arosmin Díaz Kolb, hold is published. This issue features various sections, an eight-hour fast to support Biscet’s campaign. including an article by independent journalist They fast at Calle 9 #8 e/ 28 y 32, Sierra de Caballos, Luis Guerra Juvier commenting on the policy of Nueva Gerona. Upon the door of the building, they repression of the Cuban government, an article on hang a poster with the number “75” surrounded by a human rights that focuses on the right to education, ring of barbed wire – a symbol of political prisoners opinion columns, criticisms, and a presentation in the country. of the Christian Liberation Movement’s Todos Source: Carlos Serpa Maceira, Lux InfoPress, Cubanos Program. director of the Press Bureau of the Cuba-Miami Source: Luis Guerra Juvier, Nueva Prensa Cubana; Information Bridge, Radio República. Julio Romero Muñoz, Freedom of Expression Havana, August 3, 2006. The Committee for Solidarity Movement. Assistance to the Dissidence Brigade 2506 releases Havana, August 2, 2006. More than twenty a statement regarding the transfer of power in Cuba. human rights activists participates in an activity “We do not accept a succession of power that entails to mark the release of political prisoner Alexei the same totalitarian system prevailing because of Solórzano Chacón, a member of the 24 de Febrero Castro and his cabal. We call on the entire Cuban Movement, from the Melena Dos Prison in Güines. opposition to unit in our convictions for freedom After his release, Solórzano goes to the home of and democracy in the country, to begin a new Virgilio Marante to participate in an event calling for path toward prosperity in the construction of our the release of all political prisoners and to celebrate nation. To do this, we should seize this opportunity his release from prison. to remove this dictatorship that has punished us Source: Carlos Serpa Maceira, Lux InfoPress, so brutally for 47 years. Now is the time for Cuba.” director of the Independent Press Bureau Cuba- The letter is signed by the Executive Committee for Miami Information Bridge. Luís González Medina Assistance to the 2506 Dissidence Brigade, Ivonne and Julián Enrique Martínez Báez, Party for Martínez Fraga, Giselle A. Paz Llames and Carlos Human Rights afﬁ liated to the Andrei Sakharov Serpa Maceira. Foundation. Source: Carlos Serpa Maceira, Lux InfoPress, Camagüey, August 2, 2006. Clients at the director of the Press Bureau of the Cuba-Miami Arroyón natural spa protest the horrible conditions Information Bridge. Radio República. of the installations and the poor quality of the Havana, August 3, 2006. Nonviolent opposition food and drink offered to them. The installation is activists Ariana Montoya Aguilar, Olga Borrero in terrible disrepair. The swimming pool is full of Cuello, Minaldo Ramos Salgado, Reinaldo Calvo, debris, with pieces of metal at the pool’s bottom, Felícito Champañat Castañeda and Héctor Julio and is notably dirty. The windows are broken, the Cedeño Negrín meet at the Reinaldo Arenas electrical wiring is defective, and the restaurant’s Independent Library, located at Calle Revillagigedo fans do not work. The center appears to be in a #8, e/ Monte y Corrales, la Habana Vieja to fast for state of complete abandonment, as its employees eight hours and read the letter sent from prison by acknowledged. The clients protest, saying that they Dr. Oscar Elías Biscet, in which he called for the help had bought into a hoax. of the opposition, the Cuban people and his fellow Source: Luís Guerra Juvier, independent journalist, political prisoners to demand that the government Nueva Prensa Cubana (NPC) Radio República. sign, implement and honor international human Isla de Pinos, August 3, 2006. Opposition rights agreements. activists from this municipality join the initiative Source: Carlos Serpa Maceira, Lux InfoPress, of prisoner of conscience Dr. Oscar Elías Biscet director of the Press Bureau of the Cuba-Miami González and demand that Cuba sign, implement, Information Bridge. Radio República. and honor international agreements on human Havana, August 3, 2006. The Independent rights. Six activists from the Plantados Until Teachers Association of Cuba holds a vigil to Freedom and Democracy in Cuba, Vladimir Araña posthumously award Dr. Rolando Espinosa with

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 119 the status of Distinguished Teacher. Espinosa died the respiratory problems that have only been recently in Miami, where he served as president of preliminarily diagnosed. the Association of Cuban Teachers in Exile. Source: Berta Antúnez Pernet, president of the In announcing the award, Roberto de Miranda Pedro Luis Boitell Civic Resistance National Hernández, leader of the Independent Teachers Movement (MNRC-PLB). Radio República. Association of Cuba and a prisoner of conscience Pinar del Río, August 4, 2006. Prisoner of free on conditional release due to his health, conscience Orlando Zapata Tamayo announces expresses that even after Espinosa left the country, that he is beginning a hunger strike to protest the he never stopped loving Cuba and was an example violence that the military exercises against his of infi nite selfl essness as an educator. A banner person, shaving his head and face by force. Zapata hanging for the occasion read, “Professor Espinosa says that, for him, his hair represents his love for his patented his commitment to an education free of family and his beard his love for his fellow freedom politics.” A book of condolences was begun for him fi ghters. at the Felix Varela Independent Library, located at Zapata, 39, is serving a 25-year prison term following Calle Campanario # 354 e/ San Rafael y San Miguel, his arrest during the wave of repression of 2003. Centro Habana. Among those who signed the book Source: Ahmed Rodríguez Albacia, Youth Without were three prisoners of conscience from the Black Censorship. Reina Tamayo Dánger, mother of Spring of 2003, Roberto de Miranda Hernández, political prisoner Orlando Zapata Tamayo. Carmelo Díaz Fernández and Edel José García Díaz Camagüey, August 4, 2006. From his cell at as well as Ladies in White Blanco Soledad Díaz the Kilo 7 prison, prisoner of conscience Jorge Luis Verdecia and María Margarita Borges Hernández. García Pérez “Antúnez” issues a call to the people Source: Carlos Serpa Maceira, Lux InfoPress, of Cuba to resist cooperation with the regime. director of the Press Bureau of the Cuba-Miami Considering that the Cuban communist system at Information Bridge. Radio República. this moment is in agony, “urgency demands that Ciego de Ávila, August 3, 2006. Opposition a call be made to raise the conscience of everyone, leader Juan Carlos González Leiva, president of the young and old, workers and professionals, military Ciego de Ávila-based Cuban Foundation for Human and civilian, to refuse to continue cooperating with Rights, issues a call to the Cuban government to an unjust system and reject taking part in acts of begin a period of peaceful transition to democracy. repression that the government and its repressive The call comes following the temporary transfer of branches cowardly prepare and launch against its power from Fidel Castro to his brother Raul. “I think peaceful opponents who do nothing but defend that it is the time, the opportunity, the last chance their human rights and dignity.” The regime, he that the Cuban government has to begin an orderly says, while stomping on your condition and human and peaceful transition to democracy in Cuba,” said dignity, “intends to use you as an instrument González Leiva. for its domination, be it through confrontation Source: Juan Carlos González Leiva, Human and aggression or simply by pressuring you to Rights Foundation of Cuba, Ciego de Ávila. Radio participate in rallies and demonstrations, shouting República. slogans of hate and revenge that belie the spirit Camagüey, August 3, 2006. Political prisoner of tolerance, brotherhood and respect that have Jorge Luis García Pérez “Antúnez” and common always characterized the Cuban person, educated in prisoner Ramón Delgado Prieto, fast throughout Christian faith and love and who has a long tradition the day in solidarity with nonviolent dissidents of solidarity and fraternity.” Guillermo Fariñas Hernández and Mario Pérez For these reasons, Antúnez concludes, “We invite Aguilera, who continue their hunger strikes. They you to not cooperate with repression and, even demand an end to the repressive practices and more, to join those who defend human rights and harassment that members of the opposition face justice and advocate for a free, pluralistic and both inside and out of the nation’s prisons and call prosperous society.” for their inalienable rights to be respected and for an Source: Jorge Luis García Pérez “Antúnez”, Bertha improvement in their prison conditions. They ask Antúnez Pernet, Radio República. that they be offered the chance to receive religious Holguín, August 4, 2006. Nonviolent dissidents assistance from a Catholic priest; they have been from Sagua de Tánamo and Moa, members of the requesting this for many months and have received Eastern Democratic Alliance, release a statement only arbitrary refusals from authorities. ratifying the call to the Cuban people to resist They demand rapid medical attention for cooperation with the dictatorship. “We reiterate their multiple health problems, particularly our call for non-cooperation with the repression in

120 EFE/ARCHIVO/Stringer

The dissident Hilda Molina (left) consoles Teresita Rodríguez, the widow of Gustavo Arcos Bergnes in the Cathedral of Havana on August 17, 2006, when a mass was held for the Cuban opposition activist who died on August 8.

Cuba, a call that our organization has made since involved in that.’ People of Cuba, do not cooperate the repudiation rallies and beatings against peaceful with repression.” dissidents increased in September 2005 throughout Source: Juan Carlos Garcell Pérez, Oriente Province the island. Today, this call is of even more valid Free Press Agency. Chief of Public Relations of the and important, for the regime is responding to the Eastern Democratic Alliance. Eliécer Consuegra surgery of Cuban President Fidel Castro by holding Rivas, Radio República. meetings in every neighborhood throughout the Holguín, August 4, 2006. After one year since country to warn the people of supposed military its founding, the Youth Without Censorship Press intervention by the United States and by creating Agency publicly ratify the agency’s willingness to more Rapid Response Brigades to harass, beat and “continue informing Cuba and the world about if needed kill those who oppose the regime. what is really happening in this country and without After condemning the violence committed against manipulation.” This, despite the fact that the young the peaceful activist Omar Pérez Torres of the members of the agency have been the victims of Unión del Níquel Service Company, the statement surveillance, persecution and threats of being jailed concludes: “People of Cuba, do not cooperate with and sentenced to long prison terms for the mere act repression, do not cooperate with the repudiation of informing the Cuban people and the world of the rallies, do not cooperate with the immoral, inhuman realities that the actual regime conceals. and degrading rallies, do not cooperate with “In this time when Cubans are full of doubt and injustice, do not cooperate with lies, do not cooperate disinformation, still repressed in different ways, the with violence, do not cooperate with the violent, agency reiterates its commitment with humanity to do not cooperate with political manipulation. Say continue its informational labors. no, just as many brave Cubans have already done, “This August 4, we celebrate our ﬁ rst anniversary tell them, ‘nobody picks me to do that, I don’t get and we thank those people and organizations both

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 121 EFE/ARCHIVO/Stringer

Gustavo Arcos Bergnes died in Havana on August 8, 2006. This photo was one of the last taken of the President of the Cuban Committee for Human Rights on June 2, 2006. He was a companion in the struggle with thousands of young people against the dictatorship of Fulgencio Batista and participated with Fidel Castro in the assault on the Moncada Barracks, but the Cuban dictator condemned him to many years of prison for opposing communism. Together with other opposition activists, he set up the Cuban Committee for Human Rights, of which he was the President until he died. Hundreds of people attended a mass held in the Cathedral of Havana in his honor. Arcos Bergnes had presided over the Hispanic Cuban Foundation of Spain since 2000. on the island and abroad who have contributed to Martí and Calle San Félix, reading: “Fidel, you have the development of our work during this successful ﬁ nally met your end” and “Fidel, you should have year.” died long ago”. Source: Liannis Meriño Aguilera, director, These signs provoke a severe crackdown against Youth Without Censorship Press Agency. Radio leaders of the local opposition movement, who República. are visited and warned that they are under police Santiago de Cuba, August 4, 2006. Two surveillance and cannot leave their homes. Among antigovernment signs appear at the corner of Calle these activists are Juan Antonio Núñez Dávila and

122 Eduardo Torres, the general coordinator of the and democracy. We yearn for rights to be respected Cuban Orthodox Renovation Party. and for peace among all people. These have been Source: Juan Carlos Garcell Pérez, Oriente important issues for Cuba throughout centuries Province Free Press Agency (APLO). Cubanet. and are evidenced by Cuba’s key role in the creation Pinar del Río, August 5, 2006. Activists with of the United Nations Universal Declaration of the Máximo Gómez Báez National Civic Movement Human Rights, adopted in 1948, and at many other hold an event to commemorate the Havana instances […]. We shall not give up our efforts, even “Maleconazo”. Thirteen people take part in the though we are vulnerable, peace-loving women, activity, held at the headquarters of the movement, but rather, inspired by our immense tenacity and Calle Escuela # 12, e/ 6ta y Avenida Los Castillo, passion for our families, our people and our nation. Reparto Fénix, which is also the home of the group’s We cannot always be many; the multiple diffi culties president, Mario Izquierdo Sotolongo. that exist in our country are well known, as is the Source: Mario Izquierdo Sotolongo, Máximo repression that everyone faces. Yet every Sunday, Gómez Báez National Civic Movement. José A. whenever it is possible, we shall be together and Ballart Ochoa, The Free People of Cuba National surely increase the efforts to participate.” Movement “Josué País García”. Source: Laura Pollán, wife of political prisoner Havana, August 5, 2006. The National Center Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. Berta Soler, wife of of Union and Labor Education hold a conference political prisoner Ángel Moya Acosta. Cubanet. on the causes and effects of civil disobedience to Havana, August 7, 2006. The Pro-Freedom of build on the anniversary of the event known as the the Press Association (APLP) nominates Oscar “Maleconazo,” which occurred in Havana on August Mario González Pérez for the annual freedom 5, 1994. The conference takes place at Calle Baso #1, of speech prize given by the Committee for the Altos, e/ Pereira y Hambrón, Regla. Protection of Journalists (CPJ) in New York. In Source: Víctor Manuel Domínguez García, National the nomination, the association asserts that this Center of Union and Labor Education. Joel Brito, independent journalist surpassed the requirements Group for Corporate Social Responsibility of to obtain this award. Cuba. The 62-year-old Oscar Mario González Pérez, Havana, August 5, 2006. Activists with the graduated as a journalist from one of the courses Party for Human Rights, affi liated to the Andrei offered, free of charge, by the Catholic Church Sakharov Foundation, commemorated the fi rst of Cuba to Cubans residing on the island. The demonstration of mass civil disobedience against nomination took into account his well-known the Castro regime by the people of Cuba, which took career, his unwavering support for freedom of the place in Havana in 1994, and came to be known as press and freedom of expression, and his illegal the “Maleconazo”. The celebration takes place at the arrest and detention, which lasted for more than home of activists Luz Marina Barceló Padrón and one year. González cultivates a style of political Luis González Medina, who live at Calle 40 #2906 journalism and uses his fi ne sensitivity to write e/ 29 y 33, San José de las Lajas, in Havana. what will surely become required reading for Source: Luís González Medina and Julián Enrique researchers and historians who seek to understand Martínez Báez, Party for Human Rights affi liated life in Cuba during the sad years of the Fidel Castro to the Andrei Sakharov Foundation. dictatorship. Havana, August 6, 2006. As they have done At the present time, the APLP counts 61 independent every Sunday since March 30, 2003, the Ladies in journalists among its membership, fi ve of which live White attend mass at Santa Rita de Casia Church abroad, and four who are in Cuban jails. and march along the center of Quinta Avenida Source: Juan González Febles, Cubanet. in Havana’s Miramar neighborhood. The only Havana, August 8, 2006. Teresita Rodríguez, difference about this week’s march is that it is the the wife of more than 25 years of late opposition fi rst since Fidel Castro handed over power. leader Gustavo Arcos Bergnes, tells members of the “This August 6, we walk with our traditional gladiolus Cuban opposition movement that the last words of in one hand and white lily as a sign of peace and love her husband, the leader of the Cuban Committee in the other. We continue our struggle because we for Human Rights, were a call for unity among the are convinced that nothing is impossible for those internal dissident movement and the exile. Gustavo who are right,” said Laura Pollán Toledo, the wife of Arcos Bergnes died in a Havana hospital. He was political prisoner Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. 79. The Ladies in White have long expressed their Source: Ernesto Roque Cintero, UPECI. Cubanet. objectives: “We aspire to be able to live in freedom Isla de Pinos, August 9, 2006. Twenty members

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 123 of the Julio Tang Texier Cultural Civic Project printed with the word, “Change”, and other items. commemorate the 42nd anniversary of the killing “The people enthusiastically accepted the literature of Ernesto Díaz Madruga. Díaz was the fi rst martyr and even asked for other titles. During the delivery, of the forced labor program imposed on political there were no altercations with groups sympathetic prisoners in the Isla de Pinos. The meeting also to the Castro regime in the area,” said Idania Yánes features the launch of the book, “Boitel Lives”, and Contreras, coordinator of the movement. She added the screening of a documentary produced outside that the lack of information in offi cial publications of the country, “In a Place Without a Soul”. The in Cuba has led many people to write off these commemoration is held at the group’s headquarters state-run sources and to seek out other information in Escuela de Cabo, Isla de Pinos. media. Source: Carlos Serpa Maceira, independent Source: Ahmed Rodríguez Albacia, independent journalist, Lux Info Press. Press Bureau of the journalist, Youth Without Censorship Agency. Cuba-Miami Information Bridge. Cubanet. Villa Clara, August 11, 2006. A delegation of Holguín, August 9, 2006. The Armando members of the Party for Human Rights affi liated Villadares Independent Library is founded at Calle to the Andrei Sakharov Foundation, from the Donato Mármol #167, Gibara. The library is run by Ranchuelo Municipality in Santa Clara holds a Alberto García Silva, 33, and has 260 books and 30 traditional candlelight vigil. The service begins magazines and periodicals. Its primary objective is with the singing of the national anthem followed to overcome the barriers of misinformation imposed by a prayer for the release without exile of political by the Cuban government. prisoner who remain in Cuban jails. Then the Letter Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas and Guillermo to the Hebrews 13:3 is read and the group say the Llano Ricardo, Eastern Democratic Alliance. prisoner’s prayer. They also observe a moment of Isla de Pinos, August 10, 2006. The Julio Tang silence for the late opposition leader Gustavo Arcos Texier Cultural Civic Project inaugurates a series of Bergnes. The vigil is held at the home of Suárez dissident fi lms at the Pedro Luis Boitel Censorship- Torres, located at Jerónimo Caballero, e/ Panchito Free Video Room with a showing of “A Mano Limpia” Gómez Toro y General Acebo. hosted by the Dominican journalist Oscar Haza’s Source: Ahmed Rodríguez Albacia, Youth Without and weekly news summaries from Televisión Martí. Censorship, Radio República . The fi lm series was held to support the Campaign Havana, August 13, 2006. The Ladies in White, for the Freedom without Exile of Cuban Political the wives, mothers, sisters and relatives of political Prisoners. prisoners go on their weekly pilgrimage to the Santa Source: Carlos Serpa Maceira, independent Rita Church at 5ta. Avenida y 26, Miramar. They journalist, Lux Info Press, Cuba-Miami Information prayed for freedom for their imprisoned family Bridge. Radio República. members. Holguín, August 10, 2006. The Gustavo Arcos Source: Laura Pollán, wife of jailed independent Bergnes Independent Library is founded at Calle A journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. Berta Soler, #13, Gibara, Holguín. The library, which is run by wife of political prisoner Ángel Moya Acosta. Gonzalo Garrido Carralero, features 270 volumes. Havana, August 13, 2006. The Cuba National According to Garrido Carralero, the library’s goal Commission (CNC) issues a public call to the Cuban is to bring a wide spectrum of censorship-free people to resist cooperation with repressive acts literature to the people of Cuba, including books on against human rights activists. The statement comes economics, politics and world literature. after members of the so-called Rapid Response Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas and Guillermo Brigades assault the group’s headquarters at Calle Llano Ricardo, Eastern Democratic Alliance. Lealtad #406 e/ San José y San Rafael, Centro Villa Clara, August 11, 2006. Members of Habana, for 12 hours. the Marta Abreu Women’s Movement distribute Source: Carlos Serpa Maceira, Lux Info Press. alternative literature in Santa Clara. Walking Cubanet. through the streets of Reparto José Martí and Camagüey, August 13, 2006. The Ladies in Reparto Virginia, members of the group pass out White, the wives, mothers, sisters and family copies of the Universal Declaration of Human members of political prisoners from Camagüey, Rights, “Cuba Today, a social, economic and attend Sunday mass at the Santa Ana Church, political analysis” by Marta Beatriz Roque Cabello, located at General Gómez # 400 esquina a Bembeta the “Black Calendar of Cuban Totalitarianism” as y Plaza de Santa Ana. The group prays for the release well as a calendar featuring Cuban baseball players, of all political prisoners. brochures on the “Cuban Patriotic Junta”, bracelets Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political

124 Two photos of one event: A group of opposition activists meet in Güines to celebrate the release of a dissident brother and hold an activity for political prisoners.

prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. and carrying the cross. State Security makes its Granma, August 13, 2006. Nonviolent presence known during the peaceful activity. David opposition leader Enrique Piñeiro hangs a large Rodríguez Paján and Noelmis Sevila Terrero are cardboard sign upon his front door featuring the among those participating in the procession. word “CHANGE” written in red paint. The political Source: Ahmed Rodríguez Albacia, independent police had removed another similar sign from his journalist, Youth Without Censorship Agency. door before dawn that morning. The original sign Radio República. had been hanging since July 24 and government Camagüey, August 16, 2006. The father of a ofﬁ cials had already ordered him to remove it. “I prisoner of conscience demands the release of his became indignant to see that they had taken down son in a call to the international community. the sign because they, the communists put their’s “My name is Alfredo Pulido García, the father of up and we respect their signs,” Piñeiro said. political prisoner Dr. Alfredo Manuel Pulido López, Source: Roberto Santana, Cubanet. who is serving a 14-year sentence at the Kilo 7 Prison Camagüey, August 14, 2006. Antigovernment in Camagüey. I want to inform the international signs appear during the morning in the area community and the entire world that my son has surrounding Finlay Park, near the bus terminal been in jail for 41 months despite never committing in the city of Camagüey. Although the police had a crime. He is a prisoner of conscience because he is removed all of the signs by 7 a.m., many of those an opponent of the government. I believe that it is who frequent the area had a chance to read the enough that he is serving time for a crime he never slogans, such as “Enough lies”, “We want a different committed, and he is also ill. Why is he sick? Because life”, and “Down with Fidel!” before their removal. he has done nothing wrong, he is simply part of the Rumors abound that similar signs appeared opposition—something that exists throughout the elsewhere in the city. world. All of the governments of the world have an Source: Marilín Díaz Fernández, correspondent, opposition, all except for this one. I believe that it is Lux InfoPress. Radio República. time for the government to realize how inhumane it Havana, August 15, 2006. The Liberal Party of has been with all of these prisoners and to release Cuba issues 1900 copies of their information packet them all, not just my son, because they are all intended to disseminate the Party’s identity and its innocently serving unjust sentences.” projects, as well as to inform the Cuban people how Alfredo Pulido López, 45, is an independent to join the Party and participate in its activities. journalist and one of the organizers of the Varela Source: Julia Cecilia Delgado, Reinaldo Hernández Project. He was sentenced to 14 years for his peaceful Cardona, Cuban Liberal Party. opposition to the regime. Guantánamo, August 15, 2006. At 6 p.m. today Source: Luis Guerra Juvier, Nueva Prensa Cubana. the procession starts at the local Catholic church, and Radio República. goes through the city of Guantánamo carrying the Villa Clara, August 16, 2006. Various Virgin of Charity of El Cobre. Around one thousand nonviolent opposition activists with the Christian people participate in the procession, singing hymns Democratic Movement of Cuba together with other

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 125 dissidents from the Martí Youth Coalition and the of the Cuban Liberal Party begin a chain of fasts in Nationalist Civic Movement of Cuba from Santa support of political prisoners. The event begins at the Clara meet together at the cemetery carrying out home of Reinaldo Hernández Cardona, Falgueras a vigil to pray for Cuban political prisoners, their 413 e/ Lombillo y Pinera, El Cerro, continuing at the release and their families. They also pray for the home of Leonel Sánchez, Calle 10, Reparto Capri, 10 soul of the recently deceased human rights activist de octubre, and concluding at the home of Héctor Gustavo Arcos Bergnes. They beseech God for the Julio Cedeño, Revillagigedo #6, Habana Vieja. health of Guillermo Fariñas Hernández, praying for Source: Julia Cecilia Delgado, Reinaldo Hernández God to enlighten the independent journalist in his Cardona, Cuban Liberal Party. already prolonged hunger strike. At the end of the Havana, August 18, 2006. Wives and family vigil, they pray for the Cuban people to be able to members of political prisoners gather at the home act in unity and peace to establish a rule of law that of Laura Pollán, the wife of jailed independent will benefi t all equally. At the end of the vigil, the journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. The “Literary dissidents present reaffi rm their desire to continue Tea” is an activity where the letters written by their peaceful struggle toward democracy in Cuba. political prisoners are read and for the wives Source: Alain Ramón Gómez Ramos, Christian and family members to comment on the specifi c Democratic Movement of Cuba. Radio República. situations of their loved ones. Granma, August 16, 2006. Political prisoner Source: Laura Pollán, wife of jailed independent Félix Navarro Rodríguez sends a letter from his cell journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. at the Las Mangas Provincial Prison in Bayamo, Havana, August 18, 2006. Members of the to Dr. Rafael Pino Bécquer, the Deputy Attorney United Council of Cuban Workers (CUTC) make General of the Republic of Cuba, denouncing the public its proposed “Constitutional Standards” abuses that he has suffered at the hands of Captain project, which is derived from the bylaws of the Rogelio Hernández Arévalo, the second in command CUTC and earlier projects such as the Labor, at the prison, as well as Captain Jorge Núñez, who Administration, Social Justice and Women Codes. runs the prison’s State Security unit, and Colonel Doctors Maybell Padilla and Francisco Leblanc are Modesto Castillo Herrera, the prison warden. In his in charge of the program, working with organized letter Navarro Rodríguez characterizes the prison labor around the island to follow the structure of as “a dungeon of pain, torture, crime and all types the International Labor Organization (ILO), the of violations”. Latin American Workers’ Central (CLAT) and the Source: Sahilí Navarro, daughter of Félix Navarro World Confederation of Labor (WCL). Rodríguez, Radio República. Source: Aimée Cabrera, Cubanet. Joel Brito, Cuban Havana, August 17, 2006. Alexei Escudero, Task Force for Corporate Social Responsibility. a member of the Cuban Youth for Democracy Cubanet. Movement, reveals the results of a public opinion Matanzas, August 18, 2006. Six members of the poll of working people between 22 and 40 years of Peace, Love and Freedom Party hold a vigil for the age. The poll focuses on questions regarding the release of Cuban political prisoners at the Gustavo role of unions. Arcos Bergnes Library, which is in the home of “The general opinion is that the union does not Eufemio Álvarez la Fe, Calle 30 e/ 25 y 33 #2524, respond to the workers’ interests, but rather is closely Torriente, Jagüey Grande. controlled by the administration and responds Source: Jorge Luís Álvarez García, Peace, Love and solely to their instructions. The unions only interact Freedom Party, Matanzas; Alejandrina García with their rank and fi le in order to collect union fees, de la Riva, wife of political prisoner Diosdado control their participation in labour vigilance and González Marrero. require unconditional attendance at administration Ciego de Ávila, August 18, 2006. Twelve orientations. Overall, young people feel that the nonviolent opposition activists meet at the home of unions and their leadership are the same thing, independent farmer Ideal Pérez Díaz in the Violeta and that these organizations no longer serve the neighborhood at the city of Ciego de Ávila. Blind interests of their members. In one production unit attorney Juan Carlos González Leiva leads the that was polled, 95% of the mostly young workers group, which responds with shouts of “Long live were unaware of the role of the Cuban Workers human rights!” to a Repudiation Rally that lasts Central regarding labor rights. until 8 p.m. Source: Alexei Escudero, Cuban Youth for Source: Ahmed Rodríguez Albacia, independent Democracy Movement. Radio República. journalist, Youth Without Censorship Agency. Havana, August 18, 2006. Thirty-nine members Radio República.

126 Camagüey, August 18, 2006. Around 7 people, the Alternative Option Independent Movement including Ladies in White, family members of (MIOA), including José Antonio Pérez Morell, political prisoners and activists, gather at the home Yoany y Yovany Junco Sardiñas, and Ulises Sigler of Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, the wife of political González, hold a fast to demand that the Castro prisoner Alfredo Pulido López, to say the rosary and dictatorship grant immediate and unconditional pray for all of the political prisoners and prisoners release to all political prisoners and prisoners of of conscience in Cuba. conscience. While the activists met, military and Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political paramilitary groups gather along that block of Calle prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. 22, between Calle 19 and Calle 21, to disrupt the Granma, August 18, 2006. Numerous members meeting by playing loud music and shouting insults of the Youth of Bayamo Plantados Until Freedom and threats via a loudspeaker. Residents of the area and Democracy in Cuba meet at their organization’s stood up to the pro-government groups, calling headquarters, located at Calle Raúl Gómez 217 e/ them “abusers”. Through the loudspeakers, the B y C, Reparto la Unión, to participate in a vigil. pro-government groups shouted hysterically, “We During the meeting, they discuss the precarious have thousands of armed men who are mobilized situations of many political prisoners. and ready to shoot you.” They also referred to the The event revives and lifts the spirits of many of the dissidents using the traditional epithets of “traitors” youth leaders of the Cuban democracy movement. and “mercenaries”. Yandris Montoya, Alexis Ramírez, Antonio Santí, Source: Oscar Sánchez Madan, Alternative Option Francisco Juan Reyes, Alexis Guerra, Diosnadis Independent Movement. Cubanet. Diéguez, Osniel Díaz, Félix Rivero, José Armando Camagüey, August 20, 2006. The Ladies in Tornés and Michel Pérez participate. White, the wives, mothers, sisters and family Source: Daniel Díaz Sánchez. Directorio members of political prisoners from Camagüey, Democrático Cubano. Radio República. attend Sunday mass at the Santa Ana Church, Santiago de Cuba, August 18, 2006. Belkis located at General Gómez # 400 esquina a Bembeta Cantillo, Amelia García Vega, Ana Belkis Ferrer y Plaza de Santa Ana. The group prays for the release García, Gerardo Miranda, Yuniel Santos de la Cruz of all political prisoners. and Norberto Díaz Peña pray the rosary at the home Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political of Ana Belkis Ferrer García, Calle 7 Final # 318, prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. Loma Blanca, Palmarito de Cauto. Las Tunas, August 20, 2006. Fifteen activists Source: Ana Belkis Ferrer García, sister of the met at the local branch of the National Center for imprisoned Ferrer García brothers and member of Union and Labor Training for a workshop on the the Christian Liberation Movement. exception mechanisms by which the right to strike Holguín, August 19, 2006. Political slogans has been suppressed as well as the analysis of lambasting Fidel and Raúl Castro appear during the violation of collective bargaining agreements the morning on a wall at the Calle Torrentera bus in Cuba. The activity concludes with a call for stop in Banes. Police photographed the signs, which the unconditional release of imprisoned union read “Down with Fidel” and “We don’t want Raúl”, organizers and other political prisoners in Cuba. in hopes of discovering trails of their authors. Hours Juan Ramón Morales Ortiz leads the event, which later, the Rapid Response Brigades were mobilized is held at Calle José Aguilera #87, Altos, e/ 36 y at a nearby ﬁ re station to receive instructions and Sendero. proceed to intimidate the local populace. Source: Víctor Manuel Domínguez García, Source: Liannis Meriño Aguilera, independent National Center of Union and Labor Education journalist, Youth Without Censorship Press Agency. ; Juan Ramón Morales, Las Tunas Branch; Joel Radio República. Brito, Group for Corporate Social Responsibility of Havana, August 20, 2006. The Ladies in White, Cuba. the wives, mothers, sisters and relatives of political Villa Clara, August 21, 2006. The Marta Abreu prisoners go on their weekly pilgrimage to the Women’s Movement and the Alternative Option Santa Rita Church at 5ta. Avenida y 26, Miramar. Independent Movement sign an accord of friendship They pray for freedom for their imprisoned family and collaboration at the home of Gloria Amaya, Calle members. 22 #1910, e/ 19 y 21, Pedro Betancourt, Matanzas. Source: Laura Pollán, wife of jailed independent Source: Idania Yánes Contreras, Marta Abreu journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. Berta Soler, Women’s Movement. Juan Francisco Sigler Amaya, wife of political prisoner Ángel Moya Acosta. Alternative Option Independent Movement. Matanzas, August 20, 2006. Ten activists with Camagüey, August 21, 2006. Political prisoner

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 127 Jorge Luis García Pérez “Antúnez” announced that his mortal remains were cremated and buried in his solid food strike is to become a full-blown hunger Caibarién. There was no public wake. strike in his effort to garner support for dissidents Cardinal Jaime Ortega offi ciated the funeral mass. Guillermo Fariñas Hernández and Mario Pérez In his homily, the Cardinal emphasized God’s love Aguilera, who have been on hunger strikes for many as the only truth and pointed out Arcos Bergnes’ months, to demand fair treatment and respect for Christian values. the rights of jailed opposition activists and, lastly, to Arcos Bergnes was one of the founders of the Cuban call on his fellow Cubans to resist cooperating with Committee for Human Rights in 1983 as well as the regime and its repressive forces. the Madrid-based Hispano-Cuban Foundation, in Source: Jorge Luis García Pérez “Antúnez”, Kilo 7 which he served as president until his death. He was Prison, Camagüey. Bertha Antúnez Pernet, Radio always one of the top fi gures in the Cuban dissident República. movement, he participated actively in island Holguín, August 21, 2006. Luis Cabrera politics since 1953, alongside his brothers Luis and Ballester, held at the Holguín Provincial Prison, Sebastián, and earned an honorable place in the was sent to a punishment cell after writing José struggle for freedom and democracy in Cuba. Martí quotations on a chalkboard inside the prison. Source: Lucas Garve, Freedom of Expression These cells are designed to cause members of the Foundation. Cubanet. nonviolent opposition to give in; there, prisoners Camagüey, August 22, 2006. Several prisoners are given water only once daily, forced to tolerate at the Kilo 8 maximum security prison, both extreme heat, cockroaches, rodents and mosquitoes. political and common, began a massive hunger Cabrera Ballester was sentenced to four years in strike to protest the mistreatment and abuse they prison in 2002. suffer daily at the hands of the guards. Source: Liannis Meriño Aguilera, independent The strike grows daily, as more prisoners join in, journalist, Youth Without Censorship press agency. noting that this has been demonstrated to be an Radio República. effective way to demand the simple right to be Villa Clara, August 22, 2006. Berta Antúnez treated like a human being. Proof of this is revealed Pernet, sister of Jorge Luis García Pérez Antúnez in the prison authorities’ concern in this matter. and niece of Omar Pernet Hernández, both Cuban Some of the prisoners have had to be admitted to political prisoners, send a message of thanks to her the Camagüey provincial hospital, as their health neighbors and the people of Cuba in general for their has deteriorated. refusal to cooperate with the repressive regime. Source: Mario Echavarría Driggs, Youths for She thanks the Cuban exile community for having Democracy Press Bureau. Radio República. “echoed the Non-Cooperation Campaign with Camagüey, August 22, 2006. From his cell at messages encouraging Cubans to not participate in the Kilo 8 Prison, political prisoner José Daniel activities against human rights defenders.” Ferrer García, a member of the Christian Liberation She thanks her neighbors and friends for alerting Movement and an organizer of the Varela Project dissidents to surveillance activities or to planned who was sentenced to 25 years in prison in the Black assaults, as well as for refusing to infl ict hurt on Spring of 2003, issues a public statement calling dissidents and for considering that the time has on Cubans to resist cooperation with the lie. “Ask come to resist cooperation with the dictatorship yourselves, why do I have to belong to organizations and to not allow the regime to use them for unjust whose primary goal is to uphold tyranny? Why purposes. She concludes her message with “Enough. must I participate in false elections that only benefi t Down with the double morality.” the oppressor of my people? Why do I have to play The message is to overcome fear and cease acting along with one who causes so much strife? Why like automotons according to what one really thinks do I fear pushing my fellow citizens to do the right and say, “No,” to the dictatorship. thing? Why should I not say what I believe? Why Source: Bertha Antúnez Pernet. “Pedro Luis Boitel” shouldn’t I join those who are fi ghting for a better Civic Resistance National Movement, Radio future for everyone? Why should I not participate República. in projects designed to pull the country out of its Villa Clara, August 22, 2006. Teresita Paz, the economic, political and social crisis? Why shouldn’t widow of the late Gustavo Arcos Bergnes, joined by I express my discontent in public? Why don’t I family members, friends, members of the Cuban denounce the injustices and protest against them Committee for Human Rights and accredited if they are universally recognized rights and my diplomats in Cuba, bid their fi nal farewell to the conscience and responsibility requires this of me? human rights activist. At the behest of the deceased, The wellbeing of a nation depends to a large extent

128 on the civic virtues of its children.” Hernández in front of his room. Fariñas remains in Source: José Daniel Ferrer García, Kilo 8 Prison, serious condition. Camagüey. Guillermo Llano Riacardo, Eastern Source: Ahmed Rodríguez Albacia, independent Democratic Alliance. Radio República. journalist, Youth Without Censorship Agency. Havana, August 24, 2006. A literary contest Cubanet. titled “Letter for a Brother in Prison” is launched. The Villa Clara, August 26, 2006. Thirty members of contest, organized by the Martí Youth Committee, different organizations visit independent journalist will continue through March 1, 2007. There are Guillermo Fariñas Hernández in the Arnaldo three age groups in the contest and all are welcome Milián Castro Hospital in Santa Clara. Fariñas to participate. Participants should send their letters remains in serious condition. Activists come from to Calle 401 #17409, e/ 174 y 176, Reparto Nueva the following Villa Clara municipalities: Aguada de Aurora, Santiago de las Vegas, Boyeros, Ciudad Pasajeros de Cienfuegos, Placetas, Manicaragua, Habana, C.P. 17200. The letters received will be Santa Clara, Ranchuelo and Báez. They say a sent to the more than 300 political prisoners that prayer for the quick recovery of Guillermo Fariñas languish in Cuban prisons. Hernández. “He did not say a single word and only Edgar López Moreno, the president of the Coalition, opened his eyes for a few moments,” said Idania stressed “the human value of the idea” and the Yánez Contreras, the coordinator of the Marta importance for “the whole country to become aware Abreu Women’s Movement. “Moreover, his face that there are more than 300 political prisoners appeared quite inﬂ amed.” When their visit ended, suffering everyday in jail and that they need support they exited the hospital amidst repressors who and solidarity.” surrounded them. Hours before the group arrived Source: Roberto Santana Rodríguez, independent at the hospital, paramilitary groups and members of journalist. Radio República. the Communist Party of Cuba deployed throughout Isla de Pinos, August 24, 2006. The Julio the hospital and the surrounding area in an attempt Tang Texier Cultural Civic Project makes their to inhibit the dissidents from visiting Fariñas. The unconditional support for the Non-Cooperation mobs were led by State Security Captains Alexander with the Dictatorship Campaign known through Solís Hernández and Pedro Pérez, who were inside a comunique. The Pedro Luis Boitel and Carlos the hospital to oversee the massive visit. Manuel de Céspedes Censorship-Free Video Rooms Source: Ahmed Rodríguez Albacia, independent and the Ernest Hemingway Independent Library, journalist, Youth Without Censorship Agency. which make up the Julio Tang Texier Cultural Civic Havana, August 27, 2006. The Ladies in White, Project, will publicize the campaign by distributing the wives, mothers, sisters and relatives of political related stickers and brochures and sponsoring prisoners go on their weekly pilgrimage to the Santa public meetings with the residents. Rita Church at 5ta. Avenida y 26, Miramar. Source: Carlos Serpa Maceira, Syndicated Press Source: Laura Pollán, wife of jailed independent Agency, director of the Press Bureau of the Cuba- journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. Berta Soler, Miami Information Bridge. wife of political prisoner Ángel Moya Acosta. Havana, August 25, 2006. The Latin American Camagüey, August 27, 2006. The Ladies in Federation of Rural Women has launched a national White, the wives, mothers, sisters and family campaign with the slogan, “With the same coin”, to members of political prisoners from Camagüey, demand the right for Cubans to shop everywhere in attend Sunday mass at the Santa Ana Church, the country using the nationall currency. located at General Gómez # 400 esquina a Bembeta According to the federation’s leader, Maura González y Plaza de Santa Ana. The group prayed for the Jurquet, the group will begin collecting signatures release of all political prisoners and prisoners of throughout the island in order to present, in conscience. accordance with the Constitution, a bill that would Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political return certain rights to Cubans that should never prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. have been rescinded. Holguín, August 27, 2006. Activists from the Source: Ahmed Rodríguez Albacia, independent Foundation for Human Rights and the Eastern journalist, Youth Without Censorship Agency. Democratic Alliance observe a prayer service at Cubanet. the Our Lady of Charity Church in Banes to pray Villa Clara, August 25, 2006. Eight members for national unity and reconciliation. They pray for of dissident organizations from Cuba’s central political prisoners and their family members before zone meet at the Arnaldo Milián Castro Hospital to the Virgin and deposit a white ﬂ oral offering at pray for independent journalist Guillermo Fariñas her feet. Marta Díaz Rondón, Juan Oriol Verdecia

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 129 Evora, Santo Alberto Escalona Blanco, Nancy Rojas anniversary of the group’s founding at the home of Feria, Andrés Pérez Peña, Mario Rojas Feria, Marta the movement’s president, José A. Ballart Ochoa, Cecilia Pérez Duconjer, Alfredo Rojas Gallo, Elio who lives at Garmendia # 21 e/ Volcán y Antonio Díaz Pupo, Sergio Abreu Paz, Randall Abreu Paz, Guiteras, Pinar del Río. More than 20 people Idalmis Desdín Salguero, Bárbara Ortiz Piris and participated in the event. Dayamis Romero participated in the service. Source: José A. Ballart Ochoa, The National Source: Marta Díaz Rondón, Lucia Iñiguez Movement of the Free People of Cuba Josué País Women’s Movement, Eastern Democratic Alliance, García. José Félix Rodríguez Rodríguez, CONIC. Director of the Gastón Baquero Independent Holguín, August 31, 2006. Eleven human Library; Dayamis Romero Ortiz, human rights rights activists in the Banes municipality hold a activist. fast in solidarity with prisoner of conscience Juan Havana, August 28, 2006. Members of the Party Carlos Herrera Acosta, in worrisome health after for Human Rights afﬁ liated to the Andrei Sakharov a prolonged hunger strike that began on June 8. Foundation pray for the release of prisoners of The fasters include members of the Foundation for conscience in a vigil. Nine members of the party, Human Rights, the Eastern Democratic Alliance including Acting Secretary General Modesto and the Cuban Liberal Movement. They meet at the Leopoldo Valdivia Varela, participate in the vigil. Gastón Baquero Independent Library to pray for Valdivia said that the peaceful civic act began with the health of Herrera Acosta and to fast for eight the national anthem and a prayer for the political hours. prisoners. That was followed by a conversation They also discussed the life and achievements regarding the general situation of the country. The of Herrera Acosta, highlighting both his work activity took place at Modesto Valdivia’s home, while in prison as well as while he worked as an located at Santa Isabel #481, e/ Maceo y Aranguren, independent journalist with the Eastern Free Press Reparto Barrio Azul, Arroyo Naranjo. Agency and as national coordinator of the Cuban Source: Ahmed Rodríguez Albacia, Youth Without Youth for Democracy Movement until his arrest Censorship. Radio República. and imprisonment in the 2003 crackdown. Pinar del Río, August 30, 2006. The “Josué País Source: Liannis Meriño Aguilera, independent García” Free People of Cuba National Movement journalist, Youth Without Censorship press agency. conducts an activity to commemorate the fourth Radio República.

130 PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 131 SEPTEMBER 2006

Havana, September 1, 2006. A social-cultural Source: Luis Guerra Juvier, Nueva Prensa Cubana; evening about the permanence, infl uence and Julio Romero Muñoz, Freedom of Expression strength of the Lux Info Press magazine among Solidarity Movement. Cuban workers is held. The activity honoring the Holguín, September 1, 2006. The fi rst edition magazine, in print for more than 70 years, takes of The Free Cuban, an independent newsletter place at the National Center for Union and Labor published by the Eastern Democratic Alliance, is Training headquarters at Calle San José #564, released. The issue features an explanation of how Altos, e/ Lealtad y Escobar, Centro Habana. this newsletter is returning to historical signifi cance, Source: Víctor Manuel Domínguez García, National as it was the voice of the Mambis [freedom fi ghters Center of Union and Labor Education; Joel Brito, during Cuba’s war for independence] in the east. Group for Corporate Social Responsibility of Other articles in the newsletter include: “The birth Cuba. of a nation”, “A summary of Cuban history”, “The Havana, September 1, 2006. Nine members home in Cuba: A success of the revolution?”, and of the Party for Human Rights in Cuba meet at “The union and unionization in Cuba during the the home of Modesto Leopoldo Valdivia Varela in third millennium”. The issue includes a section Arroyo Naranjo. According to the event’s host, the titled, “Echoes from prison”, with information peaceful civic activity begins with the singing of the provided by political prisoners from eastern Cuba, national anthem, followed by a prayer for the release as well as one on “News briefs from Cuba”, written by of political prisoners and prisoners of conscience. independent journalist Liannis Meriño Aguilera. Later, they hold a discussion on the economic, Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, Eastern political and social situation in Cuba and describe Democratic Alliance. Liannis Meriño Aguilera, problems that prisoners face in Cuban jails. independent journalist, Youth Without Censorship Source: Ahmed Rodríguez Albacia, Youth Without press agency. Censorship, Cubanet. Holguín, September 1, 2006. The Association Villa Clara, September 1, 2006. Eight members of Young Writers of Eastern Cuba (AJEO) is of different dissident organizations around the founded in San Germán. The group is “born with country meet at the Arnaldo Milián Castro Hospital the purpose of promoting and publicizing the work in Santa Clara to visit independent journalist of those authors who freely express their ideas and Guillermo Fariñas Hernández, who continues his the result of their literature, as well as those who, hunger strike. At the hospital, they hold hands and for various reasons, have chosen not to participate pray, in front of his hospital cubicle, for the hunger in or belong to offi cial Cuban organizations, such as striker’s health. There are no confrontations with the Saíz Brothers Association (AHS) or the Union Rapid Response Brigades prowling the area. Those of Writers and Artists of Cuba (UNEAC), or who present represent the Nationalist Civic Movement have been expelled from these groups for political of Cuba, the Party Pro Human Rights of Cuba and reasons,” a statement released by the groups’ the Marta Abreu Women’s Movement. founders said. Source: Ahmed Rodríguez Albacia, Youth Without Source: Liannis Meriño Aguilera, Youth Without Censorship. Radio República. Censorship Press Agency. Guillermo Llano Camagüey, September 1, 2006. Volume 4, Ricardo, Eastern Democratic Alliance. Luis Felipe Number 30 of the El Camagüeyano, an independent Rojas Rosabal, Cuban Liberal Party. newsletter, is published featuring various sections Isla de Pinos, September 3, 2006. The third including a summary of the events that take place anniversary of the Julio Tang Texier Cultural Civic on the feast day of the Virgin of Charity in the Project, as well as the anniversary of the death of province, an article on the rights that should be this martyred political prisoner, is celebrated. respected for all Cubans, especially the freedom During the activity, two books are launched, “Boitel of press and freedom of thought. This issue also Lives” and “Voices From Behind Bars”, as well as features a section on complaints and a report on the magazines, Letters from Cuba, Cubanet and the Constitutional Reform Project proposed by the Miscellany from Cuba. Documentaries produced by Christian Liberation Movement. Cubans in exile are also screened.

132 Source: Carlos Serpa Maceira, independent the price increases for air and sea travel between journalist, Lux Info Press. Batabanó and the Isle of Youth. They demand an Havana, September 3, 2006. The Ladies in end to the harassment, repression and repudiation White, the wives, mothers, sisters and relatives of rallies on the Isle of Youth and throughout the political prisoners, perform their weekly pilgrimage country. They demand the release of Cuban political to the Santa Rita church at 5ta. Avenida y 26, prisoners, the improvement of living conditions in Miramar. They pray for freedom of their imprisoned the country’s jails, and the return of the Catholic family members. Church in La Fe, Isla de Pinos, which has been Source: Laura Pollán, wife of jailed independent converted into a “Cultural House”. The Castroite journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. Berta Soler, authorities have not responded to their demands. wife of political prisoner Ángel Moya Acosta. Source: Roberto Santana Rodríguez, independent Camagüey, September 3, 2006. The Ladies journalist. Radio República. in White, the wives, mothers, sisters and family Sancti Spíritus, September 6, 2006. Ten members of political prisoners from Camagüey, activists with the National Association of Rafters attend Sunday mass at the Santa Ana Church, for Peace, Democracy and Freedom participated in located at General Gómez # 400 esquina a Bembeta a procession with the Catholic Church of Caibarién. y Plaza de Santa Ana. The group pray for the release They pray for the release of all Cuban political of all political prisoners. prisoners. Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political Source: Margarito Broche Espinosa, Peace, prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. Democracy and Freedom National Association of Havana, September 4, 2006. Ana Aguililla Cuban Rafters. Saladrigas, wife of political prisoner Francisco Holguín, September 6, 2006. Young writers in Chaviano González, refuses to strip naked and squat Holguín establish the Association of Young Writers down during a family visit to see her husband at the of Eastern Cuba. The group’s primary goals are to Combinado del Este Prison. According to Aguililla, encourage the reading of censored literature in Cuba jail authorities tell her that a body cavity search is and to create and disseminate projects in eastern mandatory for all women visiting prisoners in the Cuba involving independent literature with which jail. She protests to authorities, claiming that they the Cuban government has not tampered. Among intend only to humiliate her. the group’s planned activities are workshops on Source: Ana Aguililla Saladrigas, Leonor Pérez recreational writing named after the Cuban author Committee of Cuban Mothers for the Freedom of Reinaldo Arenas. The general coordinator of the Political Prisoners. organization is the young poet and novelist Luis Holguín, September 4, 2006. The Amanecer Felipe Rojas Rosabal. Yosvani Anzardo Hernández Human Rights Movement is founded in the Gibara is in charge of public relations. municipality. The president of the group, George Source: Liannis Meriño Aguilera, Youth Without Mora, who lives at Avenida Ronda de la Marina Censorship. #11, Gibara, says that the Movement will defend Havana, September 7, 2006. One dozen human rights in the spirit of the Declaration on members of the Cuban Liberal Movement in Punta Human Rights, denounce the violations committed Brava, La Lisa, hold a vigil on the eve of the feast by the regime, support political prisoners and their day of Our Lady of Charity of El Cobre. They pray families, and promote freedom and democracy in for the immediate and unconditional release of all Cuba. There are seven members in the group in this political prisoners on the island. The activity takes municipality, and they say they intend to spread to place at the home of Punta Brava delegate Silvio all corners of the country. Benítez Márquez, at Avenida 249 #4614 e/ 46 y 48. Source: Ahmed Rodríguez Albacia, Youth Without Source: Silvio Benítez Márquez, Cuban Liberal Censorship, Radio República . Movement. Isla de Pinos, September 6 - October 11, Havana, September 7, 2006. Fifteen members 2006. Nonviolent opposition activists Pedro Pablo of the Party for Human Rights afﬁ liated to the Meneses and Francisco Alfaro hold a hunger strike Andrei Sakharov Foundation, hold a vigil for in Nueva Gerona as a form of civic protest. The freedom without exile for Cuban political prisoners strike takes place at Meneses’ apartment on Calle in the municipality of Guanabacoa. The activity 46, Reparto Gerona Norte, which has no electricity takes place at the home of human rights defender or gas service. The dissidents protest the high Roberto Emeterio Rodríguez, located at Calle cost of living resulting from the so-called “energy Príncipe Alberto #113 e/ Padilla y San Antonio, revolution” as well as the electricity rate hikes and Guanabacoa. Once the candle is lit the group sings

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 133 Hundreds of people participated in the procession of the Our Lady of Charity of El Cobre, the patron saint of Cuba, Friday September 8 in Havana.

EFE/ALEJANDRO ERNESTO the national anthem and then pray to God and Havana, September 7, 2006. Twelve activists to Our Lady of Charity of El Cobre asking for the hold a vigil on the eve of the feast day of Our Lady of release of all political prisoners. Charity, the patron saint of Cuba, at Calle 40, #2906, Source: Ahmed Rodríguez Albacia, Youth Without e/ 29 y 33, San José de Las Lajas. They pray for the Censorship. release of all political prisoners, for an end to the

134 EFE/ALEJANDRO ERNESTO

A man lights a candle whilst walking with many others during the procession of Our Lady of Charity of El Cobre, the patron saint of Cuba, Friday September 8 in Havana. suffering of the people of Cuba and for protection for Members of the Cuban Youths for Democracy Cubans both on the island and abroad who desire a Movement begin a march to the Sanctuary of El peaceful transition and a better future for the whole Cobre to pray for their fellow members serving country. The following activists participate in the time as political prisoners. Upon arriving, they ﬁ nd event: Nara Caldero, Michel Espinosa, Jesús Valle themselves with the political police. They commence Coello, Alfredo Valle, Gilberto Sosa, Félix Camero, the activity with a mass and the police watch every Delfín Rodríguez, Arnaldo Nerey, Milagro Morell, movement they make because the police are behind Madelín de Armas, Luz Marina Barceló and Luis them. González Medina. Source: Adrián Morabas Bestard, Cuban Youths Source: Luis González Medina, provincial for Democracy Movement. coordinator of the Party for Human Rights Isla de Pinos, September 8, 2006. A special afﬁ liated to the Andrei Sakharov Foundation; mass is held for the Virgin of Charity of El Cobre at Radio República. the Virgin of Dolores Parish, located at José Martí Matanzas, September 7, 2006. Asunción esquina a 28, Nueva Gerona. The image of the Carrillo Hernández sends a letter from Colón to Dr. Virgin of Charity of El Cobre is carried in procession Rafael Pino Bécquer, the Deputy Attorney General through the General Lacret Park in the company of of the Republic of Cuba, to denounce the abuses the faithful and devotees. The locals also participate and human rights violations suffered by her son, in the pilgrimage alongside the opposition activists. political prisoner Iván Hernández Carrillo, who is Members of the Isla de Pinos Foundation for Human being held at the El Pre Juvenile Prison in Santa Rights and Territorial Development, the Ernesto Clara. Díaz Madruga Cultural Civic Project and the Pedro Source: Asunción Carrillo Hernández, Radio Luis Boitel Abraham Independent Library all take República. part in the event. At the entrance to the church, Santiago de Cuba, September 7-9, 2006. the priest says a special prayer for the wellbeing PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 135 The Cuban Youth for Democracy Movement at the Sanctuary of El Cobre in Santiago de Cuba on September 8, 2006. The young people call for freedom for political prisoners and for Cuba.

and prosperity of all people throughout the world, Christians are followed by prayers for family, unity including the sick, the imprisoned and those that and national reconciliation. The Ladies in White are suffer. During the pilgrimage, candles are lit to represented; they pray for the release of their loves illuminate the image of Our Lady of Charity of El ones and other political prisoners in Cuba. In this Cobre. People pray and sing religious songs. year’s activity there is a large deployment of State Source: Lázaro Ricardo Pérez García, Cuban Security and National Police forces in the area and Foundation of Human Rights in Isla de Pinos. within the church. Radio República. Source: Miriam Leiva, independent journalist, Havana, September 8, 2006. One dozen Cubanet. members of the Cuban Liberal Movement take part Havana, September 8, 2006. Members of the in a service at the Virgin of Charity of El Cobre Parish, Party for Human Rights affi liated to the Andrei Avenida 249 e/ 42 y 44, Punta Brava, to celebrate Sakharov Foundation, meet at the town church the feast day of Our Lady of Charity of El Cobre. in San José de las Lajas to join the community in They pray for the lives of all political prisoners on celebrating the feast day of the Virgin of Charity of the island, in particular for those prisoners who are El Cobre. During the mass, they pray for the future members of the Liberal Movement. and the wellbeing of the Cuban people, and for the Source: Silvio Benítez Márquez, Liberal release of all Cuban political prisoners. Movement. Source: Luís González Medina and Julián Enrique Havana, September 8, 2006. Numerous Martínez Báez, Party for Human Rights affi liated followers accompany the Virgin of Charity of El Cobre to the Andrei Sakharov Foundation. through the streets of Centro Habana in a procession Villa Clara, September 8, 2006. A party is held from the church, which is located on Calle Salud, to celebrate the Virgin of Charity of El Cobre at the La along Zanja, Galiano and Reina. Cardinal Jaime Purísima Concepción Church in Caibarién. The event Ortega Alamino follows the procession and then is sponsored by Father Francisco García. Layman offi ciates mass. The prayers and songs of the fervent González Perdomo, visiting from Rome, exhorts

136 Signs reading “Cambio” (change) and “Yo no coopero con la dictadura” (I do not cooperate with the dictatorship) begin to appear on walls, buses and even on the doors of some houses.

Cubans to focus on reconciliation, forgiveness and Abreu Women’s Movement. Yuniesky García tolerance. Father Francisco also emphasizes the unity López, Cuban Liberal Party. and peace among the Cuban people. The procession Sancti Spíritus, September 8, 2006. Around 20 begins after mass, at around 9 p.m.; the group sings dissidents from different organizations participate the national anthem and marches with umbrellas in the procession of the Virgin of Charity of El Cobre and candles through light rain and a mysterious in Santi Spiritus. According to Raimundo Perdigón blackout. About 30 opposition activists join the Brito, who lives at Calle Obdulio Morales #150, group of more than 1000 partaking in the event, Las Tosas, Sancti Spiritus, the Christian Liberation with the Peace, Democracy and Freedom National Movement, the Democratic Party 30th of November Association of Cuban Rafters, and the “Frank País” and the Cuban Foundation for Human Rights, all 30th of November Democratic Party, both present. take part in the event. The activity begins at 5 p.m. The activists pray to the patron saint of Cuba for in the Caridad Church with mass, followed by the the release of the prisoners, the observation of the procession of the holy image of the Virgin through United Nations Charter, and for respect for human the streets of the town. The march draws more than rights on the island. The mass and procession take 10,000 people, an unprecedented number. State place amidst heavy surveillance by members of Security agents make their presence known as they State Security, social workers, communist party observe the peaceful activity. members and paramilitary groups. Source: Ahmed Rodríguez Albacia, Youth Without Source: María Caridad Noa González, Peace, Censorship. Radio República. Democracy and Freedom National Association of Camagüey, September 8, 2006. The people Cuban Rafters. Radio República. of Camagüey gather to pay homage to the patron Villa Clara, September 8, 2006. Members of saint of Cuba, the Virgin of Charity of El Cobre. The different dissident groups in Santa Clara meet to group lights each other’s candles, creating a ring of take part in the procession of the Virgin of Charity light in a gesture of faith. They sing to the Virgin of of El Cobre at the Buen Viaje Church. After the Charity of El Cobre. Later, the Cuban Coat of Arms procession, the activists march through the streets is unfurled in the front of the sanctuary and the of the city, ending with a multi-organization group pray for fraternity. meeting. The event takes place without disruption Source: Julio Romero Muñoz, Freedom of Expression despite the efforts of the political police. Solidarity Movement. Radio República. Source: Idalberto González Gómez, Nationalist Camagüey, September 8, 2006. Members of Civic Movement. Idania Yánes Contreras, Marta the Freedom of Expression Solidarity Movement

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 137 The non- cooperation campaign, which began with a call made by political prisoners and prisoners of conscience, gains strength and spreads throughout Cuba. The message is spread through many diff erent means, including the entrance into the country of fl yers, pamphlets, stickers and other materials promoting non- cooperation. Here a young woman from Havana shows one of these fl yers with the key messages.

Signs reading “Cambio” (change) and “Yo no coopero con la dictadura” (I do not cooperate with the dictatorship) begin to appear on walls, buses and even on the doors of some houses.

138 participate in the procession of the Virgin of Charity telephone, the constant searches robberies of their of El Cobre, bringing forth in solidarity their prayer personal belongings by common prisoners on intention for the political prisoners and all Cuban behalf of the soldiers at the prison, the opening of people. their personal correspondence, and the refusal of Source: Julio Romero Muñoz, Freedom of prison authorities to allow political prisoner Alfredo Expression Solidarity Movement. Domínguez Batista to go out into the sunlight. Camagüey, September 8, 2006. The Ladies Randy Cabrera Mayor, Luis Mariano Veliz, Adolfo in White, the wives, mothers, sisters and relatives García, and Alfredo Domínguez Batista all take part of political prisoners, attend Sunday mass at the in the protest. Santa Ana Church in Camagüey, located at General Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas and Guillermo Gómez #400, esquina a Bembeta y Plaza de Santa Llano Ricardo, Eastern Democratic Alliance. Ana. Once there, they hold a small human rights Havana, September 10, 2006. The Ladies in vigil. White, the wives, mothers, sisters and relatives of Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political political prisoners, perform their weekly Sunday prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. pilgrimage to the Santa Rita church at 5ta. Avenida Santiago de Cuba, September 8, 2006. y 26, Miramar. They pray for the release of Cuba’s Activists with the Cuban Youths for Democracy political prisoners. Movement meet at the National Sanctuary of the Source: Laura Pollán, wife of jailed independent Virgin of Charity of El Cobre to commemorate the journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. Berta Soler, Cuban Patron’s day. They pray for the release of wife of political prisoner Ángel Moya Acosta. Cuban political prisoners. Camagüey, September 10, 2006. The Ladies Source: Rolando Rodríguez Lobaina, Cuban Youths in White, the wives, mothers, sisters and family for Democracy Movement. members of political prisoners from Camagüey, Santiago de Cuba, September 8, 2006. Various attend Sunday mass at the Santa Ana Church, located human rights activists and the family members of at General Gómez # 400 esquina a Bembeta y Plaza political prisoners from Palma Soriano hold a fast de Santa Ana. The group pray for the release of all at the National Sanctuary of the Virgin of Charity of political prisoners and prisoners of conscience. El Cobre to commemorate the Cuban Patron’s feast Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political day. prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. Source: Ana Belkis Ferrer García, sister of the Isla de Pinos, September 11, 2006. A historical imprisoned Ferrer García brothers and member of meeting takes place at Calle 30 #5107 e/ 51 y 53, the Christian Liberation Movement. Nueva Gerona, to commemorate the fi fth anniversary Villa Clara, September 9, 2006. Magali Broche of the terrorist attacks on the United States, which de la Cruz, wife of political prisoner Librado Linares killed 3,000 people from 36 countries, including García, protests publicly after government agents Cubans. The Isla de Pinos Foundation for Human prevent her, along with her father and small child, Rights, the Ernesto Díaz Madruga Civic Project from traveling to the town of Remedios to visit and the Pedro Luis Boitel Abraham Independent an ill relative. The authorities surround the car to Library sponsor the event. They send out a message physically prohibit her from taking the road out of sympathy and solidarity to the families of the of Camajuaní to Remedios. Magali shouts that she victims and to the American public at large for is a decent woman and decries the sad situation their loss. Before closing, they pray and observe a in which Cuban authorities openly violate the moment of silence in memory of all those who died Universal Declaration of Human Rights, promising in the attack. to denounce the act. Source: Lázaro Ricardo Pérez García, Isla de Pinos Source: Magali Broche de la Cruz, Cuban Refl ection Foundation for Human Right. Radio República. Movement, Radio República. Pinar del Río, September 11, 2006. The Holguín, September 9, 2006. Political provincial delegation of the CONIC and the prisoners at the Holguín Provincial Prison fast to “Carlos Manuel de Céspedes” National Democratic demand that State Security and prison authorities Party commemorated the fi fth anniversary of the put an end to the threats by common prisoners destruction of the World Trade Center at Calle Celso against the prisoners of conscience. They also Maragoto #143-A e/Coronel Pozo y Avellaneda. They cite other violations, including the contempt lament the terrorist attack, which caused thousands charges against political prisoner Randy Cabrera of deaths, and express their support for the measures Mayor, the prohibition of prisoner of conscience taken by the Untied States government. Alfredo Domínguez Batista from using the prison Source: José Félix Rodríguez Rodríguez, CONIC;

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 139 A group of opposition activists celebrate the third anniversary of the foundation of the Julio Tang Texier Civic Cultural Project on September 3 in Isla de Pinos.

The front cover of the ﬁ rst edition of El Cubano Libre, an independent newsletter of the Eastern Democratic Alliance, which was launched in September.

140 Ramón Suárez Díaz, “Frank País” 30th of November Rights affi liated to the Andrei Sakharov Democratic Party; José A. Ballart Ochoa, Free Foundation. People of Cuba National Movement. Camagüey, September 12, 2006. Political Havana, September 11, 2006. A vigil is held to prisoner Lázaro González Adán makes public a letter commemorate fi ve years since the terrorist attacks written to all those that struggle for freedom and against the people of the United States, which killed democracy in Cuba, encouraging his countrymen thousands of innocent citizens of that country. Those to remain strong and loyal to the ideals of freedom. gathering pray for the deceased and demand justice “There is no greater satisfaction for me than to know for those killed. They pray that such abominable that my brothers live to struggle for the truth,” he actions are never repeated anywhere in the world. writes. Source: Luís González Medina and Julián Enrique Source: Marilín Díaz Fernández, wife of political Martínez Báez, Party of Human Rights affi liated to prisoner Lázaro González Adán; Lux Info Press. the Andrei Sakharov Foundation. Cubanet. Villa Clara, September 11 - 16, 2006. Political Holguín, September 12, 2006. The second prisoner Alexander García Lima holds a fast in his issue of the literary magazine Bifronte is published, cell at the El Pre Prison in Santa Clara to protest the featuring a dossier on the Cuban narrative exhibiting recent Summit of Non-Aligned Countries, which the work of authors inside and outside of Cuba. The was held in Cuba. He says that this will only lead coordinators of the magazine, Luis Felipe Rojas to further the suffering of the Cuban people and Rosabal and Micharl Hernández Miranda, say that further consolidate the power of the Fidel Castro they appreciate “reading about our culture’s past regime to oppress the Cuban nation. without missing the connection with the today that Source: Alain Ramón Gómez Ramos, Christian we suffer.” The magazine counts on the advice of Democratic Movement of Cuba. Radio República. Father Oliver Hernández. Villa Clara, September 11, 2006. Magali Source: Luis Felipe Rojas Rosabal, AJEO; William Broche de la Cruz, the wife of political prisoner Navarrete, Miscellaneous of Cuba. Librado Linares García, protests publicly in front Havana, September 15, 2006. The National of her coworkers, complaining of the informants Center for Syndical and Laboral Education holds a of the political police who follow her even wearing vigil to remember the anniversary of the shooting the uniform of the place where she works to be able of three eclectic workers in the 1960s. Seventteen to maintain their surveillance. Broche de la Cruz people participate in the event at the Center’s says that she has worked there for 20 years and offi ces, located at Calle San José #564 e/ Lealtad y everyone knows her. She shouts at the informants Escobar, Centro Habana. that they are abusers and warns them that she will Source: Víctor Manuel Domínguez García, National complain to Party offi cials. She promptly leaves the Center for Syndical and Laboral Education; Joel workplace and walks to the town hall and the Party Brito, Group for Corporate Social Responsibility of offi ces to denounce what has been happening. She Cuba. tells the offi cial that it is a shame that government Havana, September 16, 2006. The Executive authorities are breaking their own laws and that, Committee of the National Independent Workers until the surveillance ceases, she will not return to Confederation of Cuba (CONIC) holds a meeting her job. with members of independent unions affi liated Source: Magali Broche de la Cruz, Camajuaní, with this entity, where various subjects be treated Cuban Refl ection Movement, Radio República. objectively that will be addressed in the XIX Camagüey, September 11, 2006. Ten members Congress of the state-run Cuban Workers’ Central of the Freedom of Expression Solidarity Movement (CTC), on September 25 and 26 in Havana. meet at the Henry Reeve Citizen Information CONIC Secretary General Aurelio Bachiller Center, Calle Transversal 218 e/ 3ra y 4ta, Reparto Álvarez initiated the meeting by recalling the Froilán Quirós. They discuss terrorism and analyze seven independent union members jailed in March a journal on the subject titled, “Terrorism and its 2003; he urges those present to demand the consequences”. release of these prisoners to the independent and Source: Julio Romero Muñoz, Freedom of international press. Among the independent union Expression Solidarity Movement. workers who participate in the meeting is Carmelo Havana, September 12, 2006. Antigovernment Díaz Fernández, out of prison under conditional graffi ti appear in the San José de la Lajas municipal release. Members of the Free Workers Union of park, reading, “Down with Fidel!” Cuba (STLC), the United Council of Cuban Workers Source: Luz Marina Barcelo, Party for Human (CUTC) and the Christian Union Central (CSC) PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 141 among others taking part in the meeting. María Elena Mir Marrero, Guanabo Branch; Joel Source: Víctor Manuel Domínguez, Lux Info Press. Brito, Group for Corporate Social Responsibility of Cubanet. Joel Brito, Group for Corporate Social Cuba. Responsibility of Cuba. Havana, September 18, 2006. Dr. Darsi Havana, September 17, 2006. The Ladies in Ferrer Ramírez writes a letter to Dr. Juan Escalona White, the wives, mothers, sisters and relatives of Regueira, Attorney General of the Republic of political prisoners, perform their weekly pilgrimage Cuba, to denounce the harassment and abuses he to the Santa Rita church at 5ta. Avenida y 26, has suffered at the hands of police offi cers and the Miramar. They pray for the for the unconditional cruelty of these offi cers to lock his innocent fi ve- release of their unjustly imprisoned family year-old child in an apartment with the stove’s gas members. valves open. He asks the attorney general to fulfi ll Source: Laura Pollán, wife of jailed independent his obligation to impose justice and charge those journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. Berta Soler, guilty of the crimes. He also asks him to ensure wife of political prisoner Ángel Moya Acosta. legal protection for all Cuban citizens regardless of Camagüey, September 17, 2006. The Ladies their political beliefs. in White, the wives, mothers, sisters and family Source: Dr. Darsi Ferrer Ramírez, Director, “Juan members of political prisoners from Camagüey, Bruno Zayas” Health and Human Rights Center. attend Sunday mass at the Santa Ana Church, located Matanzas, September 18, 2006. Six members at General Gómez # 400 esquina a Bembeta y Plaza of the Peace, Love and Freedom Party hold a vigil de Santa Ana. The group asks for the release of all for the release of Cuban political prisoners at the political prisoners and prisoners of conscience. Gustavo Arcos Bergnes Library, which is in the Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political home of Eufemio Álvarez la Fe, Calle 30 e/ 25 y 33 prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. #2524, Torriente, Jagüey Grande. Havana, September 18, 2006. Thirty-six Source: Jorge Luís Álvarez García, Peace, Love and members of the Liberal Party of Cuba begin a chain Freedom Party, Matanzas; Alejandrina García of fasts in support of political prisoners. The event de la Riva, wife of political prisoner Diosdado begin at the home of Reinaldo Hernández Cardona, González Marrero. Falgueras 413 e/ Lombillo y Pinera, El Cerro, Camagüey, September 18, 2006. Around continuing at the home of Leonel Sánchez, Calle seven people, including Ladies in White, family 10, Reparto Capri, 10 de octubre, and concluding at members of political prisoners and activists, gather the home of Héctor Julio Cedeño, Revillagigedo #6, at the home of Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, the wife of Habana Vieja. political prisoner Alfredo Pulido López, to say the Source: Julia Cecilia Delgado, Reinaldo Hernández rosary and pray for all of the political prisoners and Cardona, Liberal Party of Cuba. prisoners of conscience in Cuba. Havana, September 18, 2006. Wives and family Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political members of political prisoners gather at the home prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. of Laura Pollán, the wife of jailed independent Granma, September 18, 2006. Numerous journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. The “Literary members of the Youths of Bayamo Plantados Until Tea” is an opportunity to share letters written by Freedom and Democracy in Cuba meet at their political prisoners and for the wives and family organization’s headquarters, located at Calle Raúl members to comment on the specifi c situations of Gómez #266 e/Guillermo Tormes y C, Reparto La their loved ones. Unión, to joyfully celebrate the Day of the Dissident Source: Laura Pollán, wife of jailed independent in Bayamo. They hold a political event, opening with journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. Berta Soler, the national anthem followed by a moment of silence wife of political prisoner Ángel Moya Acosta. on behalf of all political prisoners in Cuba, those that Havana, September 18, 2006. The National have died in the past for their beliefs, and for those Center of Union and Labor Education organizes in exile. Despite threats from sectors of the military, a seminar titled “The battle of ideas: a political numerous members of the group take part in the problem for respecting workers’ rights”. A total of event, which also celebrates the third anniversary 25 labor activists and other private citizens attend of the founding of the Youth Movement in Bayamo, the two-session seminar, to take place on alternate Plantados Until Freedom and Democracy in Cuba. days at the Center’s branch offi ce, located at Quinta They vow to continue their struggle. Avenida D #47812, e/ 478 y 480, Guanabo. Source: Gabriel Díaz Sánchez, Youths of Bayamo. Source: Víctor Manuel Domínguez García, Radio República. National Center of Union and Labor Education; Santiago de Cuba, September 18, 2006. Belkis

142 Cantillo, Amelia García Vega, Ana Belkis Ferrer of the political police; they are forced to realize that, García, Gerardo Miranda, Yuniel Santos de la Cruz in spite of their surveillance, “Change” is appearing and Norberto Díaz Peña pray the rosary, as they do right under their noses. every Wednesday, at the home of Ana Belkis Ferrer Source: Ahmed Rodríguez Albacia, Youth Without García, Calle 7 Final # 318, Loma Blanca, Palmarito Censorship. Radio República. de Cauto. Villa Clara, September 20, 2006. Numerous Source: Ana Belkis Ferrer García, sister of the members of the Maceo Movement for Dignity attend imprisoned Ferrer García brothers and member of a cultural activity promoted by the Pablo Morales the Christian Liberation Movement. Barbas Independent Library and its director, Olga Cienfuegos, September 19, 2006. The Leonor Lidia González Barroso, to discuss the work of the Pérez Association of Women, comprised a half libraries in the province. This library is located at dozen women from the province, is founded. The Calle Toscazo #161 A, e/ Calle Martí y San Vicente, group intends to add other women of good will Santa Clara. to channel humanist ideals for the betterment Source: Idania Yánes Contreras, Marta Abreu of humankind. They also plan to offer material Women’s Movement. Olga Lidia González Barroso, and spiritual assistance to those suffering from independent librarian. injustice, and are willing to receive donations of Camagüey, September 20, 2006. Independent used clothing, toys and food to be given to family librarians meet in the city of Camagüey to fortify members of political prisoners, people in need, and the efforts of this opposition force. The meeting the homeless. Although they defi ne themselves as a takes place at the 20 de Mayo Independent Library, non-political group, they plan to work with existing located at Calle 9 #23 e/ Pasaje B y 2da Venega, women’s groups in the country. Reparto Garrido, Camagüey. The topic of discussion Source: Ahmed Rodríguez Albacia, Youth Without is “One day later”. It begins with the singing of the Censorship, Radio República . national anthem, a moment of silence for political Havana, September 20, 2006. The National prisoners and the reading of Psalm 23. Independent Workers Confederation of Cuba hold The meeting proceeds smoothly and without police a meeting with members of independent unions harassment. Among those participating are: the affi liated with the group to broach various subjects director of the 20 de Mayo Library, Fidel Palacios, that will be addressed in the XIX Congress of representing the 24 de Febrero Movement; José A. the state-run Cuban Workers’ Central (CTC) on Mola Porro, alternate delegate of the Assembly to September 25 and 26 in Havana. Aurelio Bachiller Promote Civil Society in Cuba; Roberto Marrero Álvarez begins the meeting by remembering the la Rosa of the Christian Democratic Party of seven independent union leaders who were jailed Camagüey; Marlene Bermúdez, independent in March 2003 for exercising their “right to free librarian, and others. They stress the importance of unionization”. Carmelo Díaz Hernández of the the upcoming meeting of independent librarians, Christian Syndicated Union also speaks about the to be held in Santa Clara on October 10. A healthy level of corruption and ineffi ciency at all levels showing is expected. of the public sector. They discuss issues such as Source: Fernando Tabares, Association for a Free productivity pay, gender equality in the workplace Press, Radio República. and the problem of retirees and the pensioned. Villa Clara, September 23, 2006. Twelve The meeting takes place at the CONIC headquarters. nonviolent opposition activists meet during the The Free Workers’ Union of Cuba, the United morning in Santa Clara to participate in a conference Council of Cuban Workers and the Christian Union on human rights and reopen the José Julián Martí Central all participate in the meeting, vowing to Pérez Independent Library. The Martí Youth continue denouncing social and labor violations in Coalition, the Independent Teachers Association of the country. Cuba and the Christian Democratic Movement of Source: Víctor Manuel Domínguez, Lux Info Press/ Cuba sponsor the meeting. The reopening begins Cubanet. with the singing of the national anthem, and is Villa Clara, September 20, 2006. A sticker followed by a prayer for the release of the political bearing the word “Change” adorned with the image prisoners, for the health of Guillermo Fariñas of José Martí appears overnight in the entrance to Hernández and especially for those who are sick the Provincial School of Social Work in Santa Clara. with Dengue Fever. Joel Espinosa Medrano delivers According to dissident sources in the region, this a brief historical summary of the rise of human sticker, which also appears frequently in educational rights and opens the fl oor for discussion. Later, they areas and other unexpected locations, to the horror open the doors of the Independent Library, which

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 143 has moved here from Havana. They announce the Colón, in Colón. library’s objectives and make reference to the Cuban Source: Jorge Luís Álvarez García, Peace, Love and apostle José Martí. Members of the Nationalist Civic Freedom Party, Matanzas; Alejandrina García Movement of Cuba also participate in the event. de la Riva, wife of political prisoner Diosdado Source: Alain Ramón Gómez Ramos, Christian González Marrero. Democratic Movement of Cuba. Radio República. Camagüey, September 24, 2006. The Ladies Villa Clara, September 23, 2006. Noelia in White, the wives, mothers, sisters and family Pedraza Jiménez sends an open letter to the national members of political prisoners from Camagüey, and international public opinion denouncing the attend Sunday mass at the Santa Ana Church, located State Security offi cers who have been harassing her at General Gómez # 400 esquina a Bembeta y Plaza in recent days. de Santa Ana. The group prays for the release of all “I want to stress that, since the dictator announced political prisoners and prisoners of conscience. the transfer of power, the harassment has increased Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political not just against me, but has become a constant prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. irritant for those around me as well. At the present Camagüey, September 26, 2006. The Freedom time, my whole family is affected by this, especially of Expression Solidarity Movement organizes an my fi ve-year-old son, my immediate family, my activity for local children at the Henry Reeve Center. brothers and sisters in the struggle and other Children meet here every Saturday for Christian members of the dissident movement who visit my education and lessons on morality and values, to house,” she said, noting that she plans to continue play games and to share a snack. fi ghting for her ideals. Source: Julio Romero Muñoz, Freedom of “This terrorism will not frighten us nor impede Expression Solidarity Movement. my brothers in the opposition from visiting me Havana, September 27, 2006. The family because we are not afraid and we are aware of the members of Julián Enrique Martínez Báez, the risks associated with this struggle. I demand that Havana provincial delegate of the Pro-Human the security agencies of this province to play their Rights Party, an affi liate organization of the Andrei cards and, if they really fear my anti-establishment Sakharov Foundation, hosts a homecoming at attitude, then lock me up, lock up my body. It does their home to celebrate Martínez Báez’ release not matter; the Cuban people are already locked up from prison after completing an unjust three-year in this country, which has been a prison for the past sentence for supporting freedom and human rights 47 years. in Cuba. “But they will never be able to lock away my thoughts Source: Luís González Medina and Julián Enrique nor those of my brothers and sisters in struggle. Martínez Báez, Party of Human Rights affi liated to I am not afraid and with courage will accept the the Andrei Sakharov Foundation. consequences of my actions as I go forward. I will Holguín, September 27, 2006. The Eastern respond always with the ideals of liberty that I Democratic Alliance ratifi es yet again the call defend and shall continue to defend.” for the Cuban public to resist cooperation with Source: Idania Yánes Contreras, Marta Abreu the repudiation rallies organized by paramilitary Women’s Movement. Radio República. groups working for State Security, especially in Havana, September 24, 2006. The Ladies in municipalities of this province. White, the wives, mothers, sisters and relatives of The group urges Cubans not to cooperate with the political prisoners, perform their weekly pilgrimage Castro regime. They say that, with everyone’s help, to the Santa Rita church at 5ta. Avenida y 26, it will be possible to dismantle the terrorism that Miramar. They pray for the release of their family State Security practices against the people of Cuba. members unjustly imprisoned. Source: Eliécer Consuegra Ríos, Eastern Source: Laura Pollán, wife of jailed independent Democratic Alliance. Radio República. journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. Berta Soler, Havana, September 29, 2006. The National wife of political prisoner Ángel Moya Acosta. Independent Workers Confederation of Cuba Matanzas, September 24, 2006. The Peace, (CONIC) makes public a proclamation on the Love and Freedom Party commemorate the occasion of the XIX Congress of the state-run anniversary of the group’s founding with a vigil Cuban Workers’ Central (CTC). “CONIC rejects on the Day of the Virgin of Mercy, patron saint of and denounces the interventionist words of the prisoners. Tania Morejón Soca leads the activity Second Secretary of the Central Committee of the which draws 10 participants, at the home of Ramón Communist Party of Cuba and minister of the FAR Verdecia, Calle Maceo 104 e/ Máximo Gómez y during the closing ceremony of the XIX Congress

144 of the CTC on September 27 in the Conventions regarding the Cuban regime. Palace.” “It is the task of all activists to insist that their Source: Carlos Serpa Maceira, Sindical Press neighbors not belong to the Committees for the Agency, director of the Independent Press Bureau Defense of the Revolution (CDR) or the Cuban Cuba-Miami Information Bridge. Workers’ Central (CTC), nor that they help fund Havana, September 30, 2006. Members the Territorial Troop Militias, among other morally of the Cuban Liberal Movement meet in Punta obligatory tasks that they must have in this crucial Brava to plan a recruitment strategy for the “I moment that the nationa is living through,” said do not cooperate” campaign. To this end, they Silvio Benítez Márquez, a representative of the plan to develop alternatives so that the populace Coordinating Council. internalizes the message to change their mentality Source: Juan Carlos Linares Balmaceda. Cubanet.

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 145 146 OCTOBER 2006

Havana, October 1, 2006. The Ladies in White, Cuba”, “The elderly in Cuba”, and the Echoes from the wives, mothers, sisters and relatives of political Prison section, featuring testimony from Cuban prisoners go on their weekly pilgrimage to the political prisoners. There is also a special report Santa Rita Church at 5ta. Avenida y 26, Miramar. on the Hands of Love Project, A hope-inspiring They pray for the release of their loved ones unfairly project.” imprisoned. Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, Eastern Source: Laura Pollán, wife of jailed independent Democratic Alliance. Liannis Meriño Aguilera, journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. Berta Soler, Youth Without Censorship. wife of political prisoner Ángel Moya Acosta. Granma, October 4, 2006. Activists from the Havana, October 1, 2006. Youths of Bayamo Plantados Until Freedom and The Martí Youth Coalition publishes the ﬁ rst issue Democracy in Cuba hold a candlelight vigil to of the “Awake, Youth” newsletter. The newsletter support the release of Cuban political prisoners. features information and commentary on the reality During the vigil, they reiterate their commitment in Cuba today. to raising their voices and breaking the censorship Source: Edgard López Moreno, Mart í Youth barriers so that all Cubans can enjoy freedom and Coalition. democracy. The participants recommit themselves Camagüey, October 1, 2006. The special to the ﬁ ght for a free Cuba for the Cuban people. supplement to the El Camagüeyano, an independent Source: Gabriel Díaz Sánchez, Youth Without newsletter, is published announcing the All Cubans Censorship Press Agency. Radio República. Program for constitutional reform, proposed by the Havana, October 7, 2006. Ten members of the Christian Liberation Movmement Cuban Liberal Party participated in the mass of Our Source: Luis Guerra Juvier, Nueva Prensa Cubana; Lady of the Rosary in the Guatao community in La Julio Romero Muñoz, Freedom of Expression Lisa. They pray to the Virgin for the life and health Solidarity Movement. of political prisoners and for their immediate release Camagüey, October 1, 2006. The Ladies in White, from jail. At the end of the service, they march as the wives, mothers, sisters and family members of pilgrims around the church until they approach the political prisoners from Camagüey, attend Sunday Virgin and sing the National Anthem, followed by mass at the Santa Ana Church, located at General vigorous applause for the Virgin Mary and God. Gómez # 400 esquina a Bembeta y Plaza de Santa During the activity members of the Communist Ana. The group prays for the release of all political Party and municipal government are seen at the prisoners and prisoners of conscience. church. Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political Source: Silvio Benítez Márquez, Cuban Liberal prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. Party. Holguín, October 1, 2006. Political prisoner Havana, October 8, 2006. The Ladies in White, Nelson Vázquez Lima declares himself on hunger the wives, mothers, sisters and relatives of political strike to protest the mistreatment he has suffered prisoners, go on their weekly pilgrimage to the Santa at the Holguín Provincial Prison. Rita Church at 5ta. Avenida y 26, Miramar. They Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, Eastern pray for freedom for their imprisoned husbands Democratic Alliance. Liannis Meriño Aguilera, and family members. Youth Without Censorship press agency. Source: Laura Pollán, wife of jailed independent Holguín, October 1, 2006. The second issue of The journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. Berta Soler, Free Cuban, the independent newsletter published wife of political prisoner Ángel Moya Acosta. by the Eastern Democratic Alliance, is published. Camagüey, October 8, 2006. The Ladies in In this issue, the editorial page is dedicated to the White, the wives, mothers, sisters and family celebration of the events of October 10, 1968, and members of political prisoners from Camagüey, features the following articles: “October 10, More attend Sunday mass at the Santa Ana Church, located than a holiday; the feeling, struggle and forging of a at General Gómez # 400 esquina a Bembeta y Plaza nation”, “Constitutionality and civility of the Cuban de Santa Ana. The group prays for the release of all people”, “Faith and materialism: the reality in political prisoners and prisoners of conscience.

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 147 Puente Informativo Cuba-Miami

Doctor Darsi Ferrer Ramírez, together with his wife and son, pose in front of their home with “Cambio” (change) signs, one of them pasted to the door of the house. Ferrer Ramírez joined hundreds of other opposition activists in the non-cooperation with the dictatorship campaign. Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political dissidents in Cuba, State Terrorism, compiled by prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. Frank Hernández Trujillo; How the night came, by Isla de Pinos, October 10, 2006. Twenty Huber Matos; Pedro Luis Boitel: Diary of a martyr, people celebrate the anniversary of the founding by Eduardo Figueroa; Camilo Cienfuegos, by Carlos of the Plantados group, formed by former political Franqui, and others. prisoners. The event includes a vigil for freedom In addition, numerous documentaries have been without exile for political prisoners on the island, screened at the Pedro Luis Boitel Independent during which they demand the unconditional Library, including In a place without soul, At the release of all political prisoners and the exit from blade of the machete, and The fall of a dictator. power by Fidel Castro. Source: Lázaro Ricardo Pérez García, president, Source: Carlos Serpa Maceira, independent Isla de Pinos Foundation for Human Rights. Radio journalist, Lux Info Press. República. Isla de Pinos, October 10, 2006. Activists from Havana, October 10, 2006. Members of Nueva Gerona meet to stress the importance of the Cuban Liberal Party hold three activities to independent libraries in Cuba, as these institutions commemorate the historical Grito de Yara. The provide Cuban readers with a free and uncensored ﬁ rst event takes place at the home of Reinaldo vision. Among the books currently in circulation Hernández Cardona, located at Falgueras 413 e/ are: Steps to Freedom, published by the Directorio Lombillo y Pinera, El Cerro. Fourteen activists take Democrático Cubano; The secret wars of Fidel part in the event. Seventeen activists participate in Castro, by Juan Benemelis; Trials of peaceful the event at the home of Hector Julio Cedeño, at

148 Members of the Independent Trade Union for Workers in Light Industry (SITIL) hold a vigil to support the Proclamation made by the National Independent Workers Confederation of Cuba (CONIC) on September 29 and for freedom for political prisoners.

Revillagigedo #6, Habana Vieja. Thirteen take part Manuel de Céspedes in La Demajagua. They also in the event at the home of Leonel Sanchez, located recognize certain members of the organization with at Calle 10, Reparto Capri, 10 de Octubre. diplomas. Source: Julia Cecilia Delgado, Reinaldo Hernández Other activists and members of the “Frank País” 30th Cardona, Cuban Liberal Party. of November Democratic Party, the Municipalities Havana, October 10, 2006. The National of Cuba Movement and the Democracy Information Center of Union and Labor Education holds an Center also take part in the event. event to commemorate the 138th anniversary of the Source: Lucas Garve, member, Foundation for emancipation of slaves in Cuba and to advocate Freedom of Expression. Cubanet. for the rights of the people of Cuba who, now in Havana, October 10, 2006. The Masons of the 21st century, are ideologically enslaved. During Cuba celebrate the Grito de Yara in the Grand the vigil, they read the 30 articles of the Universal Lodge of Cuba. The event is presided over by Grand Declaration of Human Rights. Twenty activists take Master Edmundo Cabrera Pérez and other high part in the event, which takes place at the center’s functionaries of the above mentioned institution. main headquarters, at Calle San José #564 e/ The main speech recalled the freeing of the slaves Lealtad y Escobar, Centro Habana. in Cuba by Carlos Manuel de Céspedes, Cuba’s Source: Víctor Manuel Domínguez García, National founding father. They also present a detailed Center for Union and Labor Training; Joel Brito, description of the liberal principles of Cuban Group for Corporate Social Responsibility of philosophy and of the wars of independence against Cuba. the Spanish metropolis. Havana, October 10, 2006. The Young Peoples Source: Leonel Pérez Belette, Cubanet. Party of Cuba commemorates the historical date of Havana, October 10, 2006. The membership of October 10 with a workshop to study the statement the Party for Human Rights afﬁ liated to the Andrei made on this date 138 years ago by Carlos Sakharov Foundation, in San José de las Lajas say

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 149 The Ladies in White celebrate being awarded the Human Rights 2006 Prize by Human Rights First. The U.S. non-governmental organization recognized in this way the work carried out by the group since March 2003, when the regime unleashed a wave of repression against Cuban opposition activists. they will join the National Congress of Independent the present regime, taking inspiration from the Librarians, sponsored by the Assembly to Promote extraordinary example of sacrifi ce, generosity and Civil Society in Cuba. The meetings are scheduled altruism exhibited by Carlos Manuel de Céspedes. to begin on October 10 and run until the February As another inspiration, they look to the strength of 24, 2007. will demonstrated by Cuba’s political prisoners who, Source: Luís González Medina and Julián Enrique despite their humiliating captivity and the pressure, Martínez Báez, Party for Human Rights affi liated blackmailing and cunning of their captors, remain to the Andrei Sakharov Foundation. stalwart in their struggle. Matanzas, October 10, 2006. Members of the Source: Jorge Luís Álvarez García, Peace, Love and Peace, Love and Freedom Party hold an activity Freedom Party, Matanzas; Alejandrina García at the home of Diosdado González Marrero, Santa de la Riva, wife of political prisoner Diosdado Rita #29 e/ Maceo y Santa Teresa, El Roque, Perico, González Marrero. Raimundo Del Toro, Radio to commemorate the Congress of Independent República. Librarians. They observe this historic date in history Villa Clara, October 10, 2006. Independent when the 10-year War was declared and Carlos journalists celebrate the third anniversary of the Manuel de Céspedes pronounced the Grito de Yara, Cubanacán Press agency in Santa Clara. ending slavery in Cuba. Andrés Govea, Rolando They discuss the agency’s achievements since its Wang Cepero, Annia Vázquez Chávez, Alejandrina founding and recall its original members. The event García de la Rivas and Dayrelis González Marrero also serves to induct Joel Espinosa Machado into take part in the event. During the event, the party the agency’s association of journalists. calls on all Cubans to intensify the struggle against The director general of Cubanacán Press, Guillermo 150 Fariñas Hernández, sends a message of salutation Holguín, October 10, 2006. Activists with and congratulations from a hospital where he has the Eastern Democratic Alliance hold activities to been recovering from the seven-month hunger commemorate the start of the war of independence strike that he underwent for the sake of all Cubans on October 10, 1868. The events will take place: at the having access to internet. Gastón Baquero Independent Library, Calle Carlos Source: Alain Ramón Gómez Ramos, Christian Manuel de Céspedes # 2007 e/ Avenida de Cárdenas Democratic Movement of Cuba. Radio República. y General Marrero, in Banes; at the Wenceslao Villa Clara, October 10, 2006. The Congress of Aguilera Feria Independent Library, Calle Celia Independent Libraries is inaugurated at the home of Sánchez Manduley #33 e/ Máximo Gómez y Diego Noelia Pedraza Jiménez. Various opposition activists M. Yedra, in Antilla; and at the Carlos Manuel de from different organizations participate in the event, Céspedes Independent Library, Calle B #2 e/ A y C, which is the subject of heavy military attention. At Reparto Pueblo Nuevo, in Antilla. the end of the meeting, as the participants retire to Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas and José Ramón their homes, two of them, Orestes Suárez Torres and Herrera Hernández, Eastern Democratic Alliance. Nancy González García, are brutally beaten near the Holguín, October 10, 2006. The Eastern corner of Circunvalación and Calle Campo. Democratic Alliance honors prisoner of conscience Source: Idania Yánes Contreras and Noelia Pedraza José Daniel Ferrer García with the Second Annual Jiménez, Marta Abreu Women’s Movement. Carlos Manuel de Céspedes Prize for Dignity. Ferrer Camagüey, October 10, 2006. Seventeen García, serving a 25-year sentence at the maximum activists of the Cuban Foundation for Human security Kilo 8 Prison in Camagüey, was imprisoned Rights meet at the Los Mangos de Caridad farm in in 2003 during the Black Spring of Cuba. In the Las Mercedes agricultural workers’ community granting him the prize, the alliance is highlighting of Florida, Camagüey. The activity involves a the resolute and dignifi ed position of all the political conversation about Carlos Manuel de Céspedes and prisoners that serve unjust jail sentences in Castro’s the history of the Cuban independence movements. prisons. It begins at 9 a.m. and ends with a lunch in the The award includes a statue of the founding father afternoon. During the activity, the values of Cuba’s and 300 dollars, which will be given to Ferrer independence leader are discussed, focusing on García’s family. the importance of this history for a peaceful and Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, president of the democratic transition in today’s Cuba. Eastern Democratic Alliance. Radio República. Source: Juan Carlos González Leiva, Cuban Santiago de Cuba, October 10, 2006. A Foundation for Human Rights. candlelight vigil takes place at the offi ces of the Camagüey, October 10, 2006. Members of Cuban Youth for Democracy Movement at Calle the Freedom of Expression Solidarity Movement Princesa #107 e/ Cortes y Virgen to commemorate (MOSEL) meet at Calle Domingo Puente #173 A in yet another anniversary of the fi rst shout of Camagüey to review and develop new ideas for the independence in 1868 by Carlos Manuel de already organized Cubans to the Rescue program, Céspedes. Rolando Rodríguez Lobaina, the director which is a proposal to gather interested Cubans to of the movement’s Center for Alternative Studies, build the base for a free Cuba of the future, where gives a moving patriotic speech to the members common values are restored and reestablished. of the youth organization and other activists who Besides the members of MOSEL, representatives attend the event, including members of the Eastern of three local non-governmental organizations also Democratic Alliance. participate in the meeting. Source: Néstor Rodríguez Lobaina, Cuban Youth Source: Julio Romero Muñoz, Freedom of for Democracy Movement. Expression Solidarity Movement. Isla de Pinos, October 11, 2006. Nonviolent Holguín, October 10, 2006. Activists with opposition activists Pedro Pablo Meneses and the “Pedro Luis Boitel” Civic Resistance National Francisco Alfaro Diéguez brought an end to Movement and members of the Eastern Democratic the hunger strike they began on this island on Alliance distribute copies of the Universal September 6, due to their precarious state of health Declaration of Human Rights to passersby in brought on by the fast. Nevertheless they have not the street at various locations throughout the given up their demands; they have been protesting municipality of Moa. against the price hike in tickets to travel between Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, Eastern Isle of Youth and Batabanó; the forced sale of home Democratic Alliance. Juan Carlos Garcell Pérez, electronics at infl ated prices; the increased electricity Eastern Free Press Agency. rates, and the government’s refusal to return the La PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 151 Fe Church to the Catholic Church. They demand journalist, Youth Without Censorship Agency. the unconditional release of all political prisoners Cubanet. and seek an end to the repression of nonviolent Isla de Pinos, October 14, 2006. The fi rst dissidents, repudiation rallies, impediments that anniversary of the founding of the Carlos Manuel prevent dissidents from attending universities and de Céspedes censorship-free video room, located at the expulsion of opposition activists from their Calle 8 e/ E y F, escalera 2055, Apto. 3, Reparto Micro places of employment. 70, is celebrated at the home of Sergio Santacruz Source: Roberto Santana Rodríguez, independent Oviedo, the coordinator of the independent library journalist. Radio República. project on this island. Even though the institution Villa Clara, October 12, 2006. The Nationalist was inaugurated on October 10, 2005, they celebrate Civic Movement organizes a pilgrimage to the the event on this day by singing the national anthem necropolis, the local cemetery in the city of Santa and holding a vigil for the 138th anniversary of the Clara, to remember the fi rst to fall at the Escambray, shout of “Independence or Death!” in La Demajagua. the martyrs Porfi rio Ramírez and Plinio Prieto The act of civil disobedience is convened by the among others. This date is chosen by the Nationalist independent library project in this municipality. Civic Movement to pay homage to all those fallen, Niurdes Mejía, Sandra Prohenza, Alfredo Pérez, executed by fi ring squad, and killed in combat. Yurán de la Pena, Yoenti Céspedes and Osvaldo Source: Idalberto González Gómez, Nationalist Hernández Carrillo participate in the event. Civic Movement. Idania Yánes Contreras, Marta Source: Lázaro Ricardo Pérez García, president, Abreu Women’s Movement. Isla de Pinos Foundation for Human Rights. Radio Granma, October 12, 2006. Nonviolent República. opposition activists hold a vigil in Manzanillo Havana, October 14, 2006. The Elena Mederos to pay homage to Mario Ramírez Fonseca on Independent Library, directed by Albertina Isabel the fi fth anniversary of his death. The peaceful Fonseca, holds its fi rst activity as part of the fi rst demonstration is conducted by María del Carmen Congress of Independent Libraries, which is part of Videaux, the acting organizer of the Workers and the Association to Promote Civil Society in Cuba. Farmers’ Party. Víctor, Eladio and Alberto Moreno The event begins with the singing of the national Fonseca, Mario Ramírez Fonseca also founded the anthem and continues with an explanation of the Martí Revolutionary Party in 1986. Ramírez Fonseca work that the Congress will do, and a call for a died in exile in the United States in an accident at united opposition movement in Cuba. The battle the age of 56. Those gathered pay homage to Mario, of Isla de Pinos video, a testimony of Cuban a tireless fi ghter for the rights of man. political prisoners, is screened. During the meeting, Source: Roberto Santana Rodríguez, independent Mercedes Correoso Bouly, the mother of political journalist. Radio República. prisoner Yosiel Rosales Correoso, speaks about Camagüey, October 13, 2006. Prisoners of the situation of her son, who is awaiting trial at the conscience José Daniel Ferrer García and Juan Valle Grande Prison. Carlos Herrera Costa found the Ignacio Agramonte Source: Lucas Grave, Freedom of Expression Loynaz course of study at the Kilo 8 prison. The Foundation. Cubanet. course, Herrera explains, is mainly designed to Villa Clara, October 14, 2006. Activists from teach common prisoners about their rights. It will the Marta Abreu Women’s Movement, the Maceo involve reading the Universal Declaration of Human Movement for Dignity and the Cuban Liberal Party Rights, a guided discussion to help them recognize hand out literature along the streets of Santa Clara Cuba’s contemporary reality that the government to commemorate the one-year anniversary of the tries to hide, and information of all kinds including “Santaclarazo”, when dozens of local activists world history, society, economics and other topics. were brutally beaten by political police agents. The In addition, one of the objectives of the course will activists then visit independent journalist Guillermo be to teach the prisoners about what is involved in Fariñas Hernández at the Arnaldo Milián Castro the nonviolent struggle for democracy, the different hospital, where they pray for political prisoners. alternative groups and the various projects that Source: Idania Yánes Contreras, Marta Abreu work toward peaceful change in the largest island Women’s Movement. Yuniesky García López, of the Caribbean. Cuban Liberal Party. Herrera said that he and Ferrer would write the Camagüey, October 14, 2006. Family members assignments and readings that will be given to the of nonviolent opposition activists commemorate prisoners to help them gain consciousness. the second anniversary of the imprisonment of Source: Ahmed Rodríguez Albacia, independent independent librarian and trade unionist Lázaro

152 González Adán. The event is held at the Julio Tang the activities, there is a screening of movies with Texier Independent Library, located at Calle Luís historical themes, including The Patriot and The Aldana #98, e/ Cándido González y William Soler Passion of Christ, as well as Cuban movies from in the Sibanicú municipality. the alternative genre, including Ninety Miles and Those present sing the national anthem and Photoshop. There is also an exhibition of visual arts remember the two years of imprisonment of featuring works by Valdés Lobo and Alejandro Lima. González Adán, during which he has suffered The library has created a database with more than mistreatment, humiliation, harassment, abuse and 2,300 volumes by 300 authors in digital format. repression at the hands of government agencies and Source: Lucas Garve, Foundation for the Freedom other prisoners who are working for the political of Expression. Cubanet. police. Camagüey, October 15, 2006. The Ladies At the event, Lázaro’s father, Claudio González, in White, the wives, mothers, sisters and family joins activists Venancio and Adalberto González members of political prisoners from Camagüey, Recio, Tomás González Rodríguez, Jordán Marcelo attend Sunday mass at the Santa Ana Church, located Huerta, Basulto Rodríguez and others. at General Gómez # 400 esquina a Bembeta y Plaza Source: Marilyn Díaz Fernández, correspondent de Santa Ana. The group pray for the release of all with Lux InfoPress and a member of the Association political prisoners and prisoners of conscience. for the Freedom of the Press. Juan Carlos González Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political Leiva, Cuban Foundation for Human Rights. Radio prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. República. Granma, October 15, 2006. Independent Camagüey, October 14, 2006. Jailed librarians María del Carmen Videau, Xiomara independent trade unionist Lázaro González Adán Moncada, Tania de la Torre and Ángel Caballero hand observe the second anniversary of his imprisonment out symbolic ﬂ yers at the Congress of Independent at the Cerámica Roja Prison with a fast that lasts Libraries. Manuel Silva, another librarian, hangs a until 6 p.m. He is joined in this solemn act by poster in his home advertising the meeting. twenty common prisoners and political prisoners: Source: Tania de la Torre Montesinos, “El Grito René Montes de Oca, Egberto A. Escobedo, Jorge de la Patria” Independent Press Bureau. Radio Luis Suárez, Raidel Aróstegui, Aldo Carnesolta, República. Radio República. Francisco Pacheco and Elizardo Calvo. Some of Santiago de Cuba, October 15, 2006. On these men wear black, as well as González, as a sign World Rural Women’s Day, the Latin American of protest. Federation of Rural Women (FLAMUR) launch a Likewise at the Kilo 8 Prison in this same province, campaign titled, “Inventory of rural poverty”. The political prisoners Carlos Luís Díaz Fernández, initiative consists of quantitative and qualitative Lamberto Hernández Planas, Juan Carlos Herrera evaluations of living conditions for the rural Acosta and José Daniel Ferrer García fast in support population in Cuba. This socioeconomic study will of González Adán and demand his release. rely upon the indicators used by the United Nations Source: Marilyn Díaz Fernández, correspondent for determining poverty indices, which will enable with Lux InfoPress and a member of the Association the study to reveal the reality of the Cuban rural for the Freedom of the Press. Juan Carlos González family in terms of: income level; availability of goods Leiva, Cuban Foundation for Human Rights. Radio and services, including health, education, potable República. water, electricity, communication and information, Havana, October 15, 2006. The Ladies in White, the social consequences of alcoholism, domestic the wives, mothers, sisters and relatives of political violence, suicide and other factors. prisoners, go on their weekly pilgrimage to the The study that the FLAMUR team will carry out Santa Rita Church at 5ta. Avenida y 26, Miramar. includes independent medical measures and criteria They pray for freedom for their imprisoned loved to determine the health situation in the rural sector, ones.. including intestinal and vaginal parasites, illnesses Source: Laura Pollán, wife of jailed independent such as malnutrition and neuropathy, illnesses that journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. Berta Soler, largely affect rural children and women as a result of wife of political prisoner Ángel Moya Acosta. the lack of medication and sanitary infrastructures. Havana, October 15 - 30, 2006. The Shalom The work will begin in the pilot communities Independent Library, which belongs to the Young of Guantánamo, Santiago de Cuba, Güines and Peoples Party of Cuba, located at Calle Zapote Santiago de las Vegas, as well as in the Escambray #310, Municipio 10 de Octubre, hold an activity area. to celebrate six years since its creation. Among The group hopes to use the study as the basis

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 153 to demonstrate that the Cuban government has Source: Juan Carlos González Leiva, Cuban abandoned its rural poor as well as to form part of the Foundation for Human Rights. report that it will present at the First International Havana, October 18, 2006. Thirty-seven Meeting of the Latin American Federation of Rural members of the Cuban Liberal Party begin a chain Women, which will take place later this month in of fasts in support of political prisoners. The event Bogotá, Colombia. begins at the home of Reinaldo Hernández Cardona, Source: Virgilio Delat la O, Cubanet. Falgueras 413 e/ Lombillo y Pinera, El Cerro, Isla de Pinos, October 16, 2006. Graffi ti continuing at the home of Leonel Sánchez, Calle reading “Down with Fidel” appears at the 10, Reparto Capri, 10 de Octubre, and concluding University Preparatory Institute in the José Carlos at the home of Héctor Julio Cedeño, Revillagigedo Mariátegui rural community of this island, causing #6, Habana Vieja. a mobilization of police and State Security forces Source: Julia Cecilia Delgado, Reinaldo Hernández that search the area for fi ngerprints and conducts Cardona, Cuban Liberal Party. handwriting tests and interrogates the student Havana, October 18, 2006. Wives and family body. They are unable to fi nd the offender. members of political prisoners gathered at the This institute has horrible living conditions; the food home of Laura Pollán, the wife of jailed independent is bad and there is never enough; sanitary conditions journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. The “Literary are unsafe; the water is not drinkable and there are Tea” is an opportunity to share letters written by too few teachers and faculty members. These factors the political prisoners, and for the wives and family lead to debilitate the students’ learning. members to comment on the specifi c situations of The situation is similar at the University Preparatory their loved ones. Institutes Numbers 5 and 18, which stand in stark Source: Laura Pollán, wife of jailed independent contrast to the bonanza that foreign students enjoy journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. Berta Soler, at the Antonio Maceo and Clara Zetkin Institutes. wife of political prisoner Ángel Moya Acosta. Gerdis Pérez la Rosa, president of the Cuban Youth Villa Clara, October 18, 2006. Members of the for Democracy Movement calls on students and Cuban Liberal Party joins a national chain of fasts parents to organize and fi ght for their rights. in solidarity with prisoner of conscience Héctor Source: Roberto Santana Rodríguez. Cubanet. Maseda Gutiérrez. The fast lasts for 12 hours at the Havana, October 16, 2006. The Ladies in White home of Bernardo Luis Ascanio Camargo, provincial celebrated at the home of Laura Pollán Toledo after delegate of the Cuban Liberal Party. being awarded the 2006 Human Rights Prize by the Source: Idania Yanes Contreras, Marta Abreu Human Rights First organization. The government Women’s Movement and Yuniesky García López, refuses to allow them to travel to New York for the Cuban Liberal Party. awards ceremony. Camagüey, October 18, 2006. Around 7 Source: Laura Pollán, Lady in White, wife of people, including the Ladies in White and family political prisoner Hector Maceda Gutierrez. members of political prisoners and activists, gather Pinar del Río, October 17, 2006. The October at the home of Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, the wife of 10th Democratic Movement is founded in this political prisoner Alfredo Pulido López, to say the province. The group selects Amable Fernando rosary and pray for all of the political prisoners and Ramón Pérez as their president and Jaime Jesús prisoners of conscience on the island. Machuá Martínez as their vice president. The Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political group’s objectives are to work for the interests of prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. the people of Cuba by confronting the government Santiago de Cuba, October 18, 2006. Belkis with criticism and formal complaints. Cantillo, Amelia García Vega, Ana Belkis Ferrer Source: Roberto Santana Rodríguez, independent García, Gerardo Miranda, Yuniel Santos de la Cruz journalist. Radio República. and Norberto Díaz Peña pray the rosary at the home Ciego de Ávila, October 17, 2006. Members of of Ana Belkis Ferrer García, Calle 7 Final # 318, the Cuban Foundation for Human Rights launches Loma Blanca, Palmarito de Cauto. the second annual El Punto Guajiro Cubano Source: Ana Belkis Ferrer García, sister of the contest. Twelve activists participate in the activity imprisoned Ferrer García brothers and member of at the Human Rights Secretariat, Calle Honorato the Christian Liberation Movement. del Castillo #154, Ciego de Ávila. The Cuban Havana, October 19, 2006. Workers affi liated Foundation for Human Rights, the Cuban League with the Independent Union of Light Industry of Independent Farmers and the Latin American Workers (SITIL) hold a vigil to demonstrate their Federation of Rural Women sponsor the event. unconditional support for the proclamation issued 154 by the National Independent Workers Confederation receive the needed medical attention. of Cuba (CONIC) on September 29. They call for Source: Ahmed Rodríguez Albacia, independent the release of political prisoners, particularly those journalist, Youth Without Censorship Agency. union organizers unjustly imprisoned, and the Radio República. freedom of independent labor organizing in Cuba. Havana, October 20, 2006. The leadership of The vigil is held in the Lawton neighborhood in the the Party for Human Rights affi liated to the Andrei 10 de Octubre municipality. Sakharov Foundation, forms a committee to assist Source: Carlos Serpa Maceira, Sindical Press the opposition organization 2506 Brigade, in support Agency, director of the Independent Press Bureau of a resolution made by Segundo Miranda. The Cuba-Miami Information Bridge. committee’s objective is to host various activities in Granma, October 19, 2006. Directors of support of the opposition movement’s work in the independent librarys from the Granma province region, and to strengthen Cuba’s independent civil that are members of the Assembly to Promote Civil society. Society in Cuba are debating their plans in the Source: Luís González Medina and Julián Enrique Congress of Independent Librarians. The participants Martínez Báez, Party for Human Rights affi liated in these meetings are: María del Carmen Videau, to the Andrei Foundation. Mariana Grajales Independent Library; Xiomara Havana, October 22, 2006. The Ladies in White, Moncada, Jesús Llanes Pelletier Independent the wives, mothers, sisters and relatives of political Library; Nelson Mireyes, Bachiller Morales Lemus prisoners go on their weekly pilgrimage to the Santa Independent Library; Ángel Caballero, Frank País Rita Church at 5ta. Avenida and 26 in Miramar. Independent Library I; Daniel Silva, Juan Carlos They pray for freedom for their imprisoned family Martínez Independent Library; Lourdes Cecilia members. Gómez, Bachiller and Morales Independent Library Source: Laura Pollán, wife of jailed independent II; Gabriel Yosmandria, Carlos Manuel de Céspedes journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. Berta Soler, Independent Library; and Tania de la Torre, Rafael wife of political prisoner Ángel Moya Acosta. María Merchán Independent Library. Camagüey, October 22, 2006. The Ladies The Congress was dedicated to Luis Elio de la Paz in White, the wives, mothers, sisters and family Ramón, director of the 20 de Mayo Independent members of political prisoners from Camagüey, Library, Elio Enrique Chávez Ramón of the 10 de attend Sunday mass at the Santa Ana Church, located Octubre Independent Library, and Martha Beatriz at General Gómez # 400 esquina a Bembeta y Plaza Roque Cabello, representative of the Assembly to de Santa Ana. The group prays for the release of all Promote Civil Society. political prisoners and prisoners of conscience. Source: Tania de la Torre Montesinos, “El Grito Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political de la Patria” Independent Press Bureau. Radio prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. República. Santiago de Cuba, October 23, 2006. Political Havana, October 20, 2006. The National prisoners Reinaldo Labrada Peña and José Gabriel Center of Union and Labor Education organize a Ramón Castillo of the Group of 75, and Eduardo candlelight vigil for the Day of Cuban Culture. The Castellanos, begin a hunger strike, according to vigil is held at the CNCSL’s main headquarters, Labrada’s wife, Giselda Verdecia García. located at Calle San José #564, Altos, e/ Lealtad y They decide to begin the strike to formalize their Escobar, Centro Habana, and involves a refl ection complaints: that it is impossible to take their meals about what the Cuban identity has been and the in their cells; the manipulation of their telephone essence of being Cuban, transcending differences rights (lack of regularity and lack of privacy), and of race, sex, religion and ideology. Fifteen people the lack of religious attention. They also call for an participate in the vigil. end to the physical and verbal mistreatment they Source: Víctor Manuel Domínguez García, National receive and the confi scation of the medications that Center of Union and Labor Education; Joel Brito, their family members bring them. Verdecia reports Group for Corporate Social Responsibility of that the level of ferocity has increased against the Cuba. political prisoners since Fidel Castro became ill. Havana, October 20, 2006. The 41 year old Source: Giselda Verdecia García, Ladies in White. political prisoner Alexander Roberto Fernández Isla de Pinos, October 25, 2006. Nonviolent Brito, serving a one-year sentence, begins a hunger dissidents from Isla de Pinos hold a vigil in honor strike to demand medical assistance and to address of the 80th birthday of Mario Chanes de Armas, the infl ammation of his leg caused by a broken bone, who has spent 30 years in Cuban prisons. Those which occurred over one month ago. He has yet to gather to read a prayer for the quick recovery of

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 155 Chanes, who resides in a hospital facility seriously Independent libraries in Santiago de Cuba debilitated by Alzheimer’s disease. They recall participate in the Congress of Independent Libraries. his active participation in the Cuban struggle for The meeting focuses on the organizational aspects freedom and democracy. Manuel Pozo Fortunato, of the libraries, which strive to thwart government a prison mate of the activist, describes his friend’s censorship and inform readers with uncensored personal courage and humanity that enabled him to media to counteract the slanted information remain fi rm in his ideals even after 28 years behind disseminated by the government. bars. The Isla de Pinos Cuban Foundation for Source: Pedro Enrique Martínez Machado, Human Rights, the Ernesto Díaz Madruga Cultural independent journalist, Farmers’ League. Radio Civic Project and the Pedro Luis Boitel Abraham República. Independent Library sponsor the event, that takes Santiago de Cuba, October 26, 2006. The place at Calle 30 #5107 e/ 51 y 53, Nueva Gerona. Cuban Foundation for Human Rights and the Source: Lázaro Ricardo Pérez García, Isla de Pinos director of the Frank País Independent Library, Human Rights Foundation. Alina Ramírez, hold a meeting with independent Villa Clara, October 25, 2006. Members of librarians. 14 independent librarians and human the Marta Abreu Women’s Movement distribute rights defenders participate in the activity. The alternative literature to the people of Santa Clara as meeting is held at Callejón de América #25, e/ part of the activities taking place in support of the Barnada y San Agustín, in Santiago de Cuba. Congress of Independent Libraries. These women Source: Juan Carlos González Leiva, Cuban regularly distribute uncensored information to Foundation for Human Rights. Santa Clara residents despite being persecuted by Havana, October 27, 2006. Neighbors of Miguel State Security and members of the Rapid Response Valdés Tamayo, human rights activist out of jail on Brigades. conditional release, defend him after he is attacked Source: Ahmed Rodríguez Albacia, Youth Without by a group that takes orders from the political Censorship, Cubanet. police. Villa Clara, October 25, 2006. A sign reading About 10 to 15 people approach him as he leaves his “Change” appears in the Aguada de Pasajeros home. Two women charge him and rip his clothes. At municipality, followed by another reading “Down this point, neighbors come to the defense of the 49- with Fidel” in the identifi cation card offi ces, which year-old activist, and the group of agitators retreats. is adjacent to the National Revolutionary Police. Valdés Tamayo was released for health reasons after Opposition activists in the town also echo the “I serving two years of his 15-year sentence. He suffers don’t cooperate with the dictatorship; I want a from life-threatening heart failure. change” slogan. Even after police breaks into the He is currently providing exceptional assistance Adam Smith Independent Library, the library’s to the Assembly to Promote Civil Society in Cuba, directors decide to proceed with the plans for the which is led by Martha Beatriz Cabello. nationwide Congress of Independent Libraries, Source: Juan Carlos Linares Balmaceda. Cubanet. scheduled through February 24, 2007. Havana, October 27, 2006. Stickers with the Source: Reinaldo Rogelio Arévalo Padrón, Línea word “Change” appear on a mailbox in San José Sur Press Agency, Radio República. de las Lajas. As often happens in response to these Holguín, October 25, 2006. Human rights incidents, the political police arrives on the scene, activist Lorenzo García Rodríguez starts a hunger investigates the area and then rips off the stickers strike after he was detained by government and takes them away. authorities. The president of the Claridad Human Source: Luis González Medina, provincial Rights Movement is charged with allegedly coordinator of the Party for Human Rights. Radio organizing a constant confi dence scheme, printing República. illegal documents and gaining illicit earnings – in Isla de Pinos, October 28, 2006. The Ernest spite of the fact that García has a license to laminate Hemingway Independent Library ratifi es its identifi cation cards and other documents. commitment to uncensored literature on the third García is the director of the Félix Varela Independent anniversary of its founding. The institution is Library, which was the subject of a meticulous located in the rural community of Escuela de Cabo, inspection by the political police, which then La Demajagua, 22 kilometers from Nueva Gerona, proceeded to confi scate numerous volumes. the municipal capital of the Isle of Youth Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, president of the Source: Mario Echavarria Driggs, Independent Eastern Democratic Alliance. Radio República. Press Bureau Cuba-Miami Information Bridge; Santiago de Cuba, October 26, 2006. Carlos Serpa Maceira, Syndicated Press Agency,

156 A vigil for the freedom without forced exile for Cuban political prisoners is held in the Ernest Hemingway independent library. director of the Independent Press Bureau Cuba- prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. Miami Information Bridge. Holguín, October 29, 2006. Activists from Havana, October 29, 2006. The Ladies in White, the Cuban Foundation for Human Rights and the the wives, mothers, sisters and relatives of political Eastern Democratic Alliance observe a prayer prisoners go on their weekly pilgrimage to the Santa service at the Our Lady of Charity Church in Banes Rita Church at 5ta. Avenida and 26 in Miramar. to pray for national unity and reconciliation. They They pray for freedom for their imprisoned family pray for political prisoners and their family members members. before the Virgin and lay a ﬂ oral offering at her feet. Source: Laura Pollán, wife of jailed independent Marta Díaz Rondón, Juan Oriol Verdecia Evora, journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. Maikel Verdecia Torres, Arnaldo Expósito Zaldivar, Camagüey, October 29, 2006. Bertha Antúnez Santo Alberto Escalona, Idalmis Desdin Salguero, Pernet, the sister of political prisoner Jorge Luis Bárbara Ortiz Piris, Dayamis Romero, Benigno García Pérez Antúnez, reports that a sign reading Pérez Santiesteban, Marta Cecilia Pérez Duconjer “Down with Fidel!” appeared at the Kilo 7 Prison in and Alfredo Rojas Gallo take part in the service. Camagüey. Her brother has told her that he has been Source: Marta Díaz Rondón, Lucia Iñiguez punished as a result of the incident, even though he Women’s Movement, Eastern Democratic Alliance, did not write the sign. Director of the Gastón Baquero Independent Source: Bertha Antúnez Pernet. Civic Resistance Library; Dayamis Romero Ortiz, human rights National Movement, Radio República. activist. Camagüey, October 29, 2006. The Ladies Villa Clara, October 30, 2006. Local residents in White, the wives, mothers, sisters and family belonging to the Hospital People’s Council protested members of political prisoners from Camagüey, to different government agencies that garbage has attend Sunday mass at the Santa Ana Church, piled up without being collected. located at General Gómez # 400 esquina a Bembeta “We cannot tolerate this anymore because it is y Plaza de Santa Ana. The group prays for the release very dangerous as fewer than 15 days ago, dozens of all political prisoners. of people were admitted to hospitals in Santa Clara Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political with Dengue Fever,” said Dr. Julio Cárdenas, who PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 157 lives in the area. strike in his cell at the Kilo 7 Prison after a prisoner But the community group’s efforts resolve nothing; named Lázaro Núñez Victoria attacked him at the they were told, among other explanations, that there behest of prison authorities. Jorge Luís afﬁ rms was not enough fuel to run the garbage truck. that he will not abandon it until he is granted the Source: Guillermo Fariñas, Cubanacán Press. opportunity to denounce the situation he is going Cubanet. through in that prison. Camagüey, October 30, 2006. Political prisoner Source: Bertha Antúnez Pernet, sister of Jorge Luís Jorge Luís García Pérez “Antúnez” began a hunger García Pérez “Antúnez”. Radio República.

158 PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 159 NOVEMBER 2006 Pinar del Río, November 1, 2006. Néstor in repression began on July 31, when Fidel Castro Hernández Escalona wrote a letter to Foreign announced that he was temporarily transferring Minister Felipe Pérez Roque asking him to take ac- power. tion as needed to cease the human rights violations Source: Tania Maceda Guerra, Cubanet. taking place at the Kilo 5 Provincial Prison and Camagüey, November 1, 2006. The El other Cuban prisons. Armando Cabrera Rodríguez, Camagüeyano bulletin, a newsletter of the indepen- Greorky Calero González, Diosdado González dent Agramontist press was published. This issue Marrero, Eduardo Rodríguez Valdez, Fidel Suarez featured a story on the prayer chain started by po- Cruz, Ariel Cruz Pascual, Enrique González Silva, litical prisoners Alfredo Pulido López, a native of Yorenys Valles Ramos, Thomas Jinagera Casar, this province, a report on the arrest of human rights Emilio Leyva Pérez, Laudes Anga Romero, Leonel activist José Mola Porro, the regular section called Enrique Borrero Carballeo and Juan Lorenzo “Your rights, Cuban”, and news of a local charac- Cordero Gomes also signed the letter. ter. Source: Carlos Serpa Maceira, Lux InfoPress, di- Source: Luis Guerra Juvier, Nueva Prensa Cubana; rector of the Cuba-Miami Information Bridge Julio Romero Muñoz, Freedom of Expression Independent Press Bureau. Solidarity Movement. Havana, November 1, 2006. The executive Holguín, November 1, 2006. The third issue board of the Assembly to Promote Civil Society in of The Free Cuban was published by the Eastern Cuba issued a statement in response to recent inci- Democratic Alliance. This issue described the dents of police harassment at independent librar- struggle for historical truth and articles such as, ies. They asked that these institutions be allowed to “Pain and forgiveness”, “Criminal dangerousness”, continue to operate as social and cultural informa- “Economic growth in Cuba and the fantasy ﬁ le”, tion centers. To those libraries that have not been “Prose poem to the Ladies in White”, “The Cuban: targets of government harassment, they urged an inventor of…?” and the regular sections, “Echoes increase in activities to disseminate culturally rele- from Prison”, which is written by political prison- vant documents among the general public. The First ers, and news briefs from around Cuba. Congress of Independent Libraries, which began on Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, Eastern October 10, 2007, will continue until February 24, Democratic Alliance. Liannis Meriño Aguilera, 2007. Youths Without Censorship. The executive board also sent a note signed by Holguín, November 1, 2006. Family mem- Martha Beatriz Roque Cabello to the Heads of bers of the deceased former soldier, Carlos Manuel State attending the XVI Ibero-American Summit. Rojas Cancino, refused to allow the Association of “The democratic governments and institutions of Combatants of the Cuban Revolution to provide the world should not cooperate with a dictatorial an honor guard during his burial in Banes. They system that oppresses its people for more than 47 alleged that the association had abandoned Rojas years,” the letter read. It included a list of ten points during his illness, which left him bedridden for exposing the precarious situation that the Cuban many years. people suffer. Source: Liannis Meriño Aguilera, Youths Without Source: Lucas Garve, Foundation for the Freedom Censorship. of Expression. Cubanet. Santiago de Cuba, November 1, 2006. The Ciego de Ávila, November 1, 2006. The Cuban Cuban Youth for Democracy Movement published Foundation for Human Rights launched a call for the second issue of Los Pinos Nuevos, an indepen- solidarity to the local community, international dent newsletter focused on eastern Cuba. The issue public opinion, churches and human rights institu- included articles titled, “Beyond footprints”, “Free tions in response to the drastic increase in govern- but in debt?” an interview with the young musician ment-sponsored violence and repression over the Alexis Odio Sánchez, a section dedicated to poetry, last few weeks, including repudiation rallies, the and information on culture and society. destruction of libraries, beatings, and the appro- Source: Néstor Rodríguez Lobaina and Gerardo priation of cash and medication from the families Sánchez Ortiga, Cuban Youth for Democracy of political prisoners. The group noted that the rise Movement.

160 The front cover of the newsletter Los Pinos Nuevos, second edition, published November 1, 2006 by the Cuban Youth for Democracy Movement (MCJD).

Members of the Ladies in White and independent journalist Carlos Serpa Maceira show the Steps to Freedom 2005 report, published by the Cuban Democratic Directorate. The edition was distributed throughout the country. It is a source of joy for the opposition activists who see their actions mentioned in the book and it also serves as moral support in its promotion of the nonviolent civic struggle.

Havana, November 2, 2006. Hundreds of peo- make a home via legal means,” explained Odalys ple took to the streets in Madruga, a municipality Rodríguez, the wife of Hernández Arencibia. “The in Havana province, when political police arrived at police could not get to my house because the whole the door of human rights activist Eddy Hernández town got in front of them. They came with special Arencibia to evict him. Hernández Arencibia, who troops to beat us, but there were so many people lives at Avenida 19 #4216 e/ 42 y 44, Reparto La gathered that they could not do that. All of the Sabana, is much loved by his neighbors. women made a chain in the front and the men made “The people leapt into the streets declaring that this one behind us. The people of this town – children, was an injustice and that we have worked hard to women, men, the elderly, even people that I do not PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 161 know – did not let the police get into our house.” miliation and misery for more than 46 years, for de- During the protest, which began around 7 p.m., mocracy and the liberties taken from us, all united, the police beat several men who tried to defend the we will be able to say, ‘it was not in vain’, thanks to women who found themselves facing the forces of non-cooperation.” repression. . Source: Guillermo Llanos Ricardo, Eastern Source: Odalis Rodríguez, Radio República. Democratic Alliance, Radio República. Matanzas, November 2, 2006. Neighbors Havana, November 3, 2006. The Cuban Youth of Alberto Sigler Estrada, an activist with the for Democracy Movement sent a letter to the Chief Alternative Option Independent Movement, inter- of the Department of Religious Affairs, an ad- vened in his favor during an assault against his per- junct department of the Central Committee of the son. Sigler Estrada was walking along a street in the Communist Party of Cuba of the State Council. The Socorro neighborhood of Pedro Betancourt, where youths, believers and non-believers alike, asked he lives, when Terencio Camejo, a collaborator with for a national project to reopen the Saint Thomas the political police, attacked him. Dozens of neigh- Catholic University in Villanueva, which the cur- bors who witnessed the assault protested energeti- rent government shut down in 1961. The letter cally to impede the attacker from achieving his ob- mentioned the visit of John Paul II to Cuba, which jective. The protest forced the local police chief to bore numerous and valuable results for society and come to the scene; he promised to take measures to the community of believers, especially Catholics prevent the repetitions of such attacks, but nothing who were comforted by the visit, but the decision has been done as of yet. of those in charge of government lamentably two of Source: Oscar Sánchez Madan. Cubanet. Juan their main proposals were vetoed: free access to the Francisco Sigler Amaya, Alternative Option communications media and the freedom of religious Independent Movement. education. This group of youths also sent a letter to Las Tunas, November 2, 2006. When human the Conference of Catholic Bishops of Havana de- rights activist Josué González Hernández happened scribing their faith and hope in a more humane and upon three political police in civilian clothing beat- fraternal country, and urging the necessary reopening a young man outside of a dollar store at the ing of the Saint Thomas University in Villanueva. corner of Avenida Libertad and Máximo Gómez in “Now is the time to deﬁ nitively open the forces of Puerto Padre, he protested the abuse and reminded civic and ethical education in Cuba,” the letter said. the police that their violent attitudes matched those Source: Néstor Rodríguez Lobaina, Radio of Batista’s guards. He promised to denounce their República. Roberto Santana Rodríguez, indepen- actions. In response, the police began to accost dent journalist. González Hernández. Havana, November 4, 2006. A discussion was Source: Ezequiel Fernández Carmenate, Christian held at the home of José Alberto Eiras, director of Liberation Movement, Radio República. the Diosdado Aquit Manrique Independent Library. Holguín, November 2, 2006. Political prisoner The Assembly to Promote Civil Society in Cuba spon- Alfredo Domínguez Batista issued a call for non-co- sored the conference at Calle Justicia #624, Apto. 1, operation on behalf of his fellow political prisoners. Luyanó. During the event, the Assembly revealed a “The political prisoners of the Holguín Provincial document it produced titled, “To propitiate a day Prison call on the people of Cuba, who suffer from after”. The adults are presented with gifts: books on a lack of rights, to non cooperation. To the mother a variety of topics as well as copies of the Universal who is full of sadness, to the youth with no future, Declaration of Human Rights, and the children re- to the child with no toys, do not cooperate. To the ceived age-appropriate literature and some toys. Cubans who do not have the right to participate Source: Juan González Febles, Cubanet. in the active social and political life, so that we do Matanzas, November 4, 2006. The Alternative not continue to be discriminated against and to de- Option Independent Movement issued a statement mand our place, and for them we must stop play- demanding that Matanzas provincial authorities ing along with Fidel Castro’s government. By what cease their proceedings against dozens of persons, manner?By not cooperating in “the battle of ideas”, mostly youths, who refuse to work in state-run en- which achieves nothing but the consumption of the terprises by applying the social dangerousness law country’s resources at the expense of the working and imprisoning them. The statement also called on people. Do not cooperate in the repudiation rallies. the local government to stop harassing, persecuting To our brothers who have abandoned and have giv- and ﬁ ning the truck drivers who transport the pop- en up everything for a new nation, for a sustainable ulace and an end to the repressive action against future for this country that has lived in pain, hu- street venders and other citizens who have economic

162 activities that benefi t the people. Furthermore, the agents and members of paramilitary brigades stood communiqué affi rms that they will denounce ev- watch outside the church. Government agents also erything that affects citizens. The letter was signed began selling alcoholic beverages in the area and – by the Board of Directors of the Alternative Option feigning coincidence – a television program recorded Independent Movement: José Antonio Pérez More, a scene near one of the church’s side entrances Ulises Sigler González, Michael Medina and Juan that involved a bride, an ambulance and running Francisco Sigler Amaya. children, which caused an uproarious distraction to Source: Miguel Sigler Amaya, member of the service. All of the activity ended quickly when Alternative Option Independent Movement and di- the church service let out. The prior evening, State rector of the Martí Civic Foundation, Jesús Roque Security offi cials visited three members of the group Sixto, Gladys Roque González and Jorge Luis in their homes, with the purpose of discourage them Roque. from participation in this celebration. Havana, November 5, 2006. The Ladies in Source: Amarilis C. Rey, Cuba Verdad, Cubanet White, the wives, mothers, sisters and relatives Havana, November 7, 2006. Reverend Ibrahim of political prisoners, made their weekly pilgrim- Pina Borges, a proponent of the proposed law age to the Santa Rita Church at 5ta. Avenida y 26, on religious services and associations, sent a Miramar. They prayed for the release of their im- letter to Ricardo Alarcón, the president of Cuba’s prisoned husbands and loved ones. National Assembly, requesting a response to this Source: Laura Pollán, wife of jailed independent grassroots initiative designed to regulate the status, journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. Berta functioning and organization of different religious SolerFernández, wife of political prisoner Ángel sects operating without legal protection in the Moya Acosta. country. The proposal is based on Article 88G of the Camagüey, November 5, 2006. The Ladies Constitution. in White, the wives, mothers, sisters and family Source: Reverendo Ibrahím Pina Borges. members of political prisoners from Camagüey, Cubanet. attended Sunday mass at the Santa Ana Church, Havana, November 7, 2006. Fifteen members located at General Gómez # 400 esquina a Bembeta of the Cuban Liberal Movement held an activity at y Plaza de Santa Ana. The group prayed for the the home of the group’s coordinator for the Western release of all political prisoners and prisoners of provinces, Silvio Benítez Márquez, who lives at conscience. Avenida 249 #4614 e/ 46 y 48. They reviewed the Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political institution’s achievements throughout the country prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. and demanded the release of all political prisoners. Havana, November 6, 2006. Independent labor Source: Silvio Benítez Márquez, Movimiento organizer Aurelio Bachiller Álvarez, the secretary Liberal Cubano. general of the National Independent Workers Camagüey, November 7, 2006. Activists with Confederation of Cuba (CONIC), publicly declared the Citizen Information Service Centers (CESIC) that he would continue to defend “the rights of met at the headquarters of the Free Expression workers in Cuba,” and stands by his commitment Solidarity Movement, which sponsors the centers, “with a democratic unionism” following his arrest to develop a strategy for the “Cubans to the Rescue” and the threat of sanctioning him to a 30-year prison program. The activists discussed human values that term if he continues his union activism. “I would like have been lost in contemporary Cuba and programs to remind the political police of Fidel of something that are being developed for other citizens, inviting that José Martí once said: ‘a just principle defended them to participate. The movement’s headquarters from the depths of a cave can achieve more than an are located at Transversal #218 e/ 3ra y 4ta, Reparto army.’” Froilán Quirós. Source: Carlos Serpa Maceira, Syndicated Press Source: Julio Romero Muñoz, Free Expression Agency, director of the Cuba-Miami Information Solidarity Movement. Bridge Independent Press Bureau. Havana, November 9, 2006. Independent Havana, November 6, 2006. A mass in the journalist and prisoner of conscience Juan Carlos Church of the Passion in memory of journalist Rosa Herrera Acosta, on a hunger strike since June 8 Berre, the director in exile of the Cubanet website consuming only liquids in the afternoons, declared is backed by a group of independent journalists. that he would maintain his stance. “Whatever Father Evelio preached a homily, speaking of love, happens, I am not going to be quiet and will continue forgiveness and reconciliation among men. In my struggle from this point forward and maintain contrast to this message, numerous State Security my fi rm position in opposition to the atrocities

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 163 committed in this prison,” said Herrera Acosta, in participants were Claro Sánchez Altarriba, Jesús imprisoned since 2003. Mustafá Felipe, Alberto Martínez Fernández, Jorge Source: Ahmed Rodríguez Albacia, Youths Without Cervantes, José Ángel Simón Rodríguez, Ricardo Censorship, Cubanet. Galván Casal, Claudio Laﬁ ta Galván, Abel López Havana, November 9, 2006. Human rights Pérez and Karen Álvarez Rodríguez. activists, independent librarians and independent Source: Andry Frometa Cuenca, political prisoner, journalists attended a mass held to honor the Radio República. memory of Cubanet director Rosa Berre at the Cienfuegos, November 11, 2006. Sixteen Church of Jesus of the Mount. Father Luis Alberto students in their fourth year of law school at the Formoso presided over the service. There was only Nguyen Van Troi School refused to sign a document one coercive action related to the event, when requiring that students commit to participate in political police agents prevented activist Francisco the University Student Federation (FEU) Congress Rodríguez Mora from leaving his house to attend the following day. The students refused to sign the religious service. The La Estrella Solitaria because they are tired of attending these activities, Information Center, part of the Republican Peoples’ where they simply make proposals that are never Party, had requested the mass. addressed; and in the end they are not listened to. Source: Juan Carlos Linares, Cubanet. Source: Alejandro Tur Valladares, Jagua Press. Villa Clara, November 10 - December 10, Havana, November 12, 2006. The Ladies in 2006. The Marta Abreu Women’s Movement, the White, the wives, mothers, sisters and relatives of Liberal Party of Cuba and the Cuban Foundation political prisoners, made their weekly pilgrimage for Human Rights expressed their solidarity with to the Santa Rita Church at 5ta. Avenida y 26, prisoner of conscience José Daniel Ferrer García Miramar. They prayed for the release of their in a civil activity in honor of the 58th anniversary unjustly incarcerated family members. of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The Source: Laura Pollán, wife of jailed independent objective of the event was to bring together activists journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. Berta Soler, from different opposition groups and to read a wife of political prisoner Ángel Moya Acosta. bible passage and articles of the declaration. They Havana, November 12, 2006. The Leonor prayed for the release of political prisoners and for Pérez Committee of Mothers for the Release of democratic change in Cuba. Political Prisoners held its usual march, this time Source: Ahmed Rodríguez Albacia, Youths Without to the Corpus Christi Church in Havana. At the Censorship, Radio República . end of the march, the women gathered to draft a Camagüey, November 10 - December 10, declaration supporting a general amnesty for all 2006. Prisoner of conscience José Daniel Ferrer political prisoners. García and Juan Carlos Herrera Acosta began thirty Source: Ana Aguililla Saladrigas, wife of political days of fasting and prayer to honor the Universal prisoner Francisco Chaviano, Leonor Pérez Declaration of Human Rights. The activity began Committee of Mothers for the Release of Political with the reading of the declaration and passages Prisoners. from the Bible. Fellow political prisoners Lamberto Cienfuegos, November 12, 2006. The Hernández Planas, Carlos Luis Díaz Fernández University Student Federation (FEU) Congress and Leoncio Rodríguez Ponce also participated. events scheduled to take place at the university in Throughout the month, they prayed to Jesus Christ Cienfuegos had to be canceled when only eight of three times daily. the 100 people invited to attend arrived, according Source: Marilyn Díaz Fernández, correspondent to one of the people who attended the meeting. with Lux InfoPress in Camagüey and a member of Source: Alejandro Tur Valladares, Jagua Press. the Association for the Freedom of the Press. Radio Camagüey, November 12 - 26, 2006. The Free República. Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, Eastern Expression Solidarity Movement held a nationwide Democratic Alliance. José Daniel Ferrer García, prayer chain to pray for the health of prisoner of Christian Liberation Movement. Juan Carlos conscience Alfredo Pulido López, sentenced to González Leiva, Cuban Foundation for Human a 14-year prison sentence at the Kilo 7 prison in Rights. Camagüey. Other nonviolent organizations, both Guantánamo, November 10, 2006. A group religious and secular, joined the prayer chain. of political prisoners joined the Sunday fast led The goal is to develop solidarity based in faith, by political prisoner Andrés Frómeta Cuenca in devotion and trust in one true and omnipotent the Combinado Prison in Guantánamo. The new God. The movement has previously supported

164 men and women of different faiths, Evangelical of conscience Francisco Chaviano González, whose and Pentecostal Christians, members of the health is deteriorating in a cell in the Combinado Independent Evangelical Church and the Prophetic del Este prison in Havana. Adventist Church, and quite a few followers of the Source: Idania Yánes Contreras, Marta Abreu Catholic faith. They were joined in this effort by the Women’s Movement. Radio República. Ladies in White, the Christian Democratic Party Villa Clara, November 17, 2006. Independent of Camagüey, the Tabernacle of God Methodist Library Conrado Primitivo Pérez Hernández held Church, the Amor Rosacruces organization, the a cultural activity in the Manicaragua municipality Amazon League and other groups, including the as part of the Congress sponsored by the Assembly youth groups participating in the campaign for the to Promote Civil Society in Cuba. The event was 50th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of hosted by librarian Ismadia Cevedo Valdés of Calle Human Rights. Rebeca Rodríguez Souto called on Juan Bruno Zayas, Sur #32, Manicaragua. Those the people of Cuba to support this campaign for gathered discussed different books, made numerous the health and freedom of her husband, political proposals, reached agreements and confi rmed their prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. disposition to continue the nonviolent struggle to Source: Julio Romero Muñoz, Barrio Adentro, the end. Radio República. Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of Source: Ahmed Rodríguez Albacia, Youths Without political prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. Censorship, Radio República . Camagüey, November 12, 2006. The Ladies Sancti Spíritus, November 17, 2006. The in White, the wives, mothers, sisters and family Yayabo Press independent agency was founded in the members of political prisoners from Camagüey, city of Sancti Spiritus with the objective of reporting attended Sunday mass at the Santa Ana Church, on activities relating to the province. The director of located at General Gómez # 400 esquina a Bembeta the press agency is Ana Margarita Perdigón Brito, y Plaza de Santa Ana. The group prayed for the who leads a team of independent journalists from release of all political prisoners and prisoners of the agency’s offi ces at Calle Obdulio Morales #50, conscience. Las Tosas. Twelve members of the “Frank País” Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political 30th of November Democratic Party and the Cuban prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. Foundation for Human Rights participated in the Havana, November 13, 2006. Lady in White founding ceremony. Alejandrina Garcia de la Riva hand delivered a letter Source: Guillermo Fariñas, Cubanacán Press. written by political prisoner Néstor Hernández Cubanet. Escalona, also signed by his fellow prisoners Camagüey, November 17, 2006. Political of conscience at the Kilo 5½ Prison, Diosdado prisoner Jorge Luís García Pérez Antúnez made a González Marrero, Fidel Suárez Cruz and Emilio call for a national period of opposition to the Castro Leyva, to government offi cial María Elena Rodríguez government from his cell at the Kilo 7 prison. He at the Cuban Foreign Ministry, located at Calzada proposed the dates November 30 to December 10 360, Vedado. In the letter, the prisoner denounced for the united dissident action. the human rights violations committed against Source: Guillermo Fariñas, Cubanacán Press. inmates. He demanded medical attention, regular Havana, November 18, 2006. Wives and family hours of sunlight and open-air exercise time. members of political prisoners gathered at the Source: Roberto Santana Rodríguez, independent home of Laura Pollán, the wife of jailed independent journalist. Radio República. Alejandrina García journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. The “Literary de la Riva, wife of political prisoner Diosdado Tea” is an opportunity to share letters written by González Marrero. political prisoners and for the wives and family Isla de Pinos, November 14, 2006. The Julio members to comment on the specifi c situations of Tang Texier Cultural Civic Project held a vigil as part their loved ones. of the Freedom without Exile for Cuban Political Source: Laura Pollán, wife of jailed independent Prisoners campaign. Fifteen people attended the journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. Berta Soler, event and then stayed to watch the documentary, At wife of political prisoner Ángel Moya Acosta. the blade of the Machete in the “Pedro Luís Boitel Havana, November 18, 2006. Thirty-nine Censorship-Free Video Room.” members of the Liberal Party of Cuba began a Source: Carlos Serpa Maceira, independent chain of fasts in support of political prisoners at journalist, Lux Info Press. three different homes in the capital. The event Villa Clara, November 15, 2006. Guillermo took place at the homes of Reinaldo Hernández Fariñas fasted for 12 hours in solidarity with prisoner Cardona, Falgueras 413 e/ Lombillo y Pinera, El

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 165 Cerro; Leonel Sánchez, Calle 10, Reparto Capri, 10 State Security agents. de octubre; and Héctor Julio Cedeño, Revillagigedo Source: Virgilio Delat la O, Eastern Free Press #6, Habana Vieja. Agency, Cubanet. Source: Julia Cecilia Delgado, Reinaldo Hernández Havana, November 19, 2006. Members of the Cardona, Liberal Party of Cuba. Pedro Luis Boitel Association of Political Prisoners Matanzas, November 18, 2006. Six members at the Combinado del Este Prison in Havana held of the Peace, Love and Freedom Party held a vigil a fast to protest the regime’s repressive actions for the release of Cuban political prisoners at the against dissidents and independent activists. A Gustavo Arcos Bergnes Library, which is in the group of prisoners in Building 2, North Wing, home of Eufemio Álvarez la Fe, Calle 30 e/ 25 y 33 Company 21, Cell 18, shouted, “Long live human #2524, Torriente, Jagüey Grande. rights!” and “Long live freedom!” as they banged on Source: Jorge Luís Álvarez García, Peace, Love and the cell doors with jugs and spoons. Freedom Party, Matanzas; Alejandrina García Source: Mario Echavarría Driggs, Radio de la Riva, wife of political prisoner Diosdado República. González Marrero. Villa Clara, November 19, 2006. Members Camagüey, November 18, 2006. Around seven of various dissident groups participated in a people, including Ladies in White, family members cultural event at the Jesús José Sardiñas Jiménez of political prisoners and activists, gathered at Independent Library, located at Calle César #16, the home of Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, the wife of e/ 3ra y Carretera de Sagua, Santa Clara. Library political prisoner Alfredo Pulido López, to say the director Idalberto González Gómez hosted the event, rosary and pray for all of the political prisoners and which drew members of the Cuban Nationalist prisoners of conscience in Cuba. Civic Movement, Plantados, Maceo Movement for Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political Dignity and Marta Abreu Women’s Movement. prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. Source: Idalberto González Gómez, Nationalist Santiago de Cuba, November 18, 2006. Belkis Civic Movement. Idania Yánes Contreras, Marta Cantillo, Amelia García Vega, Ana Belkis Ferrer Abreu Women’s Movement. García, Gerardo Miranda, Yuniel Santos de la Cruz Camagüey, November 19, 2006. The Ladies and Norberto Díaz Peña prayed the rosary at the in White, the wives, mothers, sisters and family home of Ana Belkis Ferrer García, Calle 7 Final # members of political prisoners from Camagüey, 318, Loma Blanca, Palmarito de Cauto. attended Sunday mass at the Santa Ana Church, Source: Ana Belkis Ferrer García, sister of the located at General Gómez # 400 esquina a Bembeta imprisoned Ferrer García brothers and member of y Plaza de Santa Ana. The group prayed for the the Christian Liberation Movement. release of all political prisoners and prisoners of Havana, November 19, 2006. The Ladies in conscience. White, the wives, mothers, sisters and relatives of Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political political prisoners, made their weekly pilgrimage prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. to the Santa Rita Church at 5ta. Avenida y 26, Havana, November 20, 2006. Twenty members Miramar. They prayed for the release of of their of the Cuban Liberal Movement from Punta Brava, unjustly imprisoned family members.. La Lisa, held a vigil at the home of local delegate Source: Laura Pollán, wife of jailed independent Silvio Benítez Márquez, Avenida 249 #4614 e/ 46 y journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. Berta Soler, 48, to call on the Castro regime to free all political wife of political prisoner Ángel Moya Acosta. prisoners. They discussed methods and means to Havana, November 19, 2006. Rural and bring the “I do not cooperate with the dictatorship” farmers’ associations affi liated with the Rural Civic campaign to the people of Cuba. Development Project, including ANAIC, FLAMUR, Source: Silvio Benítez Márquez, Movimiento UJR and CENAIC, showed their support for the Liberal Cubano. planned Farm Workers’ Congress, convened by the Villa Clara, November 21, 2006. Members of Farm Workers Party for the third quarter of 2007 in the Liberal Party of Cuba distributed pamphlets eastern Cuba. The organizations behind the project to residents of Santa Clara along the main street, have already begun to prepare the presentations and Avenida Paseo de la Paz. The passersby who received materials to be used to support the establishment of the documents, which included the United States an agrarian policy for sustainable development in government’s “Compact with the People of Cuba”, rural Cuba. The National Alliance of Independent expressed thanks to the dissidents. Farmers of Cuba (ANAIC), which organized similar Source: Félix Reyes Gutiérrez, Cubanacán Press. events in 1998 and 1999, was brutally repressed by Idania Yanes Contreras, Marta Abreu Women’s 166 Movement and Yuniesky García López, Liberal Source: Julio Romero Muñoz, Free Expression Party of Cuba. Solidarity Movement. Radio República. Havana, November 22, 2006. A new Villa Clara, November 24 - December 1, independent library opened in Arroyo Naranjo 2006. The Cuban Commission on Human Rights named after Eusebio de Jesús Peñalver Mazorra. for people affl icted by HIV and AIDS held a prayer The new literary establishment, located at Calle chain, titled “Ninth for Life”. During these nine Santa Isabel #481, e/ Maceo y Aranguren, Arroyo days, participants lit white candles wrapped in red Naranjo, has 300 books on various subjects. Many ribbons in a show of solidarity with and respect for party members were present at the library’s opening the victims of this epidemic. On December 1, World to reaffi rm their participation in the fi rst Congress AIDS Day, participants deposited their candles in of Independent Libraries of Cuba. the nearest place of worship to remember the victims Source: Ahmed Rodríguez Albacia, Youths Without of this global tragedy. The Cuban Commission on Censorship, Radio República . Human Rights for people affl icted by HIV and AIDS Villa Clara, November 22, 2006. The Youth called on members of civil society to participate in of Escambray Independent Library opened in the prayer chain to support those affected by the Manicaragua, Santa Clara. It is located at Calle disease. “HIV does not make us different; we seek Angola #18, e/ Juan Bruno Zayas y Desvío de respect, not just of our basic rights, but also of the Jibacoa and has 250 books on various topics. inalienable rights of all men,” said Ignacio Estrada Source: Ahmed Rodríguez Albacia, Youths Without Cepero, the leader of the commission. Censorship, Cubanet. Source: Ahmed Rodríguez Albacia, Youths Without Camagüey, November 22, 2006. The Free Censorship, Radio República . Ignacio Estrada Expression Solidarity Movement sent a message of Cepero, Cuban Commission on Human Rights for prayer, solidarity and recognition to political prisoner people affl icted by HIV and AIDS. Armando Betancourt Reina for his 45th birthday, Isla de Pinos, November 25, 2006. The 2005 to be celebrated on November 30 for maintaining edition of Steps to Freedom circulated for the fi rst his principles. The message concludes:“today your time on this island during a vigil organized by the brothers and sisters in the struggle, and on behalf Julio Tang Texier Cultural Civic Project to demand of an entire nation that is day-by-day opening its freedom without exile for Cuban political prisoners. eyes to see the truth with greater clarity. On this, Fifteen people attended. your birthday, we dedicate something from Martí to Source: Carlos Serpa Maceira, independent you: ‘There must be a certain amount of decorum in journalist, Lux Info Press. the world, just as there must be a certain amount of Villa Clara, November 25, 2006. A new light. When there are many men without decorum, independent library was inaugurated in the city of there are always others who themselves possess Santa Clara in spite of the recent spate of closures the decorum of many men. These are the ones who of such institutions throughout Cuba. Named for rebel with terrible strength against those who rob the late activist Gustavo Arcos Bergnes, the new nations of their liberty, which is to rob men of their library in Reparto José Martí opened in response decorum. Embodied in those men are thousands of to the government’s seizure of the María Cabrales men, a whole people, human dignity.’” Independent Library on October 27. Nine peaceful Source: Julio Romero Muñoz, Free Expression opposition activists attended the inauguration. Solidarity Movement. Radio República. They read a biography of Gustavo Arcos and a few Camagüey, November 22, 2006. The Free paragraphs pertaining to Martin Luther King, Jr. Expression Solidarity Movement went public with its Source: Benito Key, Cubanacán Press. “Cubans to the Rescue” program, which is designed Villa Clara, November 25, 2006. Human rights to bring together civil society organizations that activists met for a luncheon to exhange opinions. wish to participate in the task of recovering moral Attendees at the meeting included delegates from and human values in contemporary Cuban society. the Martí Youth Coalition, the Liberal Party of Cuba, “The nation is consumed by dual moral standards, the Christian Democratic Movement, the Cuban the lack of self-esteem, the absence of a sense of Nationalist Civic Movement, and Plantados Until right and wrong, disrespect for others, amorality, Freedom and Democracy in Cuba. Independent atheism, the lack of conscience, hypocrisy, the journalists from Cubanacán Press were also there. lack of patriotism, the inability to make one’s own Source: Idalberto González Gómez, Nationalist decisions, labor injustice, decadence in family Civic Movement. Alain Gómez Ramos, independent values, proclivity to the criminal and prostitution,” journalist. the proposal stated. Havana, November 26, 2006. The Ladies in

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 167 White, the wives, mothers, sisters and relatives Marrero. of political prisoners, made their weekly Sunday Havana, November 28, 2006. Members of the pilgrimage to the Santa Rita Church at 5ta. Avenida Pro-Human Rights Party, an affi liate organization y 26, Miramar. They prayed for freedom for their of the Andrei Sakharov Foundation, and the imprisoned family members. Committee for Assistance to the 2506 Dissidence Source: Laura Pollán, wife of jailed independent Brigade held a vigil calling for the release of all journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. Berta Soler, Cuban political prisoners, respect for all human wife of political prisoner Ángel Moya Acosta. rights in the country and the establishment of a Sancti Spíritus, November 26, 2006. democratic state comprising the participation of all Librarian José Ramón Borges Serrano inaugurated points along the Cuban political spectrum. the Segundo Borges Arzola Independent Library at Source: Luís González Medina and Julián Enrique Calle Jesús Menéndez #4, e/ Agramonte y Santa Martínez Báez, Pro-Human Rights Party, an Lucia, Cabaigüan, Sancti Spiritus. Twelve local affi liate organization of the Andrei Sakharov activists from the National Association of Rafters Foundation. for Human Rights, Peace, Democracy and Freedom Cienfuegos, November 29, 2006. Opposition attended the event. and human rights activist Bernardo Arévalo Padrón Source: Margarito Broche Espinosa, National refused to sign a written declaration renouncing his Association of Rafters for Peace, Human Rights, position as a nonviolent dissident. The declaration Democracy and Freedom. was presented to Arévalo by Antonio García Agüero, Camagüey, November 26, 2006. The Ladies the president of the María Victoria Production in White, the wives, mothers, sisters and family Cooperative Basic Unit, where Arévalo worked as members of political prisoners from Camagüey, an agricultural worker, when due to his refusal he attended Sunday mass at the Santa Ana Church, was fi red. located at General Gómez # 400 esquina a Bembeta Source: Yoel Espinosa Medrano, Cubanacán y Plaza de Santa Ana. The group prayed for the Press; Cubanet. Bernardo Arévalo Padrón, Linea release of all political prisonersand prisoners of Sur Press. conscience. Villa Clara, November 29, 2006. Independent Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political Library Conrado Primitivo Pérez Hernández held prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. a cultural activity in the Manicaragua municipality Holguín, November 26, 2006. Activists from the as part of the Congress sponsored by the Assembly Cuban Human Rights Foundation and the Eastern to Promote Civil Society in Cuba. The event took Democratic Alliance observed a prayer service at place at Calle Juan Bruno Zayas Sur #42. Those the Our Lady of Charity Church in Banes to pray for gathered discussed different books, made numerous national unity and reconciliation. They prayed for proposals, reached agreements and confi rmed their political prisoners and their family members before disposition to continue the nonviolent struggle to the Virgin Mary and laid a white fl oral offering at its ultimate consequences. her feet. Díaz Rondón, Juan Oriol Verdecia Evora, Source: Ahmed Rodríguez Albacia, Youths Without Maikel Verdecia Torres, Arnaldo Expósito Saldivar, Censorship, Radio República . Santo Alberto Escalona Blanco, Idalmis Desdin Villa Clara, November 29, 2006. Cesar Salguero, Benigno Pérez Santiesteban, Bárbara Páez Independent Library II, located in the Báez Ortiz Piris and Dayamis Romero participated in the community, hosted a civic-cultural activity within service. the context of the Congress of Independent Libraries. Source: Marta Díaz Rondón, Lucia Iñiguez Said activity counts on the participation of various Women’s Movement, Eastern Democratic Alliance, Independent librarians from the province. They Director of the Gastón Baquero Independent agreed to increase their contact with the people Library. Dayamis Romero Ortiz, human rights of Cuba, boost their lending rates and increase activist. the distribution of uncensored information to the Matanzas, November 27, 2006. Eighteen citizenry. members of the Peace, Love and Freedom Party Source: Ahmed Rodríguez Albacia, Youths Without organized a long walk to the medical students Censorship, Radio República . monument on Calle Camilo Cienfuegos, in the city Villa Clara, November 29, 2006. The “Frank of Colón, where they laid a fl oral offering. País” 30th of November Democratic Party celebrated Source: Jorge Luis Alvarez García, Peace, Love its founding on the eve of its anniversary at the and Freedom Party. Alejandrina García de la home of dissident and political prisoner Margarito Riva, wife of political prisoner Diosdado González Broche Espinosa. Beginning at 8 p.m. with a vigil,

168 Members of the “Frank País” 30th of November Democratic Party demonstrate in a street in Havana to support the national campaign for the freedom without forced exile for political prisoners. the event continued for two hours with a dialogue Source: María Caridad Noa González, vice on the founding and the trajectory of the party and president, the National Association of Rafters the importance of this date. They also observed a “Peace, Democracy and Freedom”. Radio moment of silence for those political prisoners who República. have been executed by the Castro regime, called for Villa Clara, November 30, 2006. Members the release of all political prisoners and discussed of the “Frank País” 30th of November Democratic the precarious health situation of some of the captive Party in Placetas met at the home of provincial dissidents, including Librado Linares, Drs. Pulido delegate Amado Ruiz Moreno, located at 5ta del and Paneque, Omar Pernet, Normando Hernández Oeste #58, e/ 3ra y 4ta del Sur, to commemorate and Héctor Palacios. They concluded with prayers the organization’s anniversary. and the reading of Psalm 37. Twenty activists took Source: Amado Ruiz Moreno, “Frank País” 30th of part in the event at Calle 16 #2518, e/ 25 y 27, November Democratic Party. Caibarién, Villa Clara, including representatives Sancti Spíritus, November 30, 2006. Members of this organization and others from the National of the National Association of Rafters for Human Association of Rafters for Human Rights, Peace, Rights, Peace, Democracy and Freedom held a Democracy and Freedom and Plantados Until roundtable discussion at Calle Jesús Menéndez Freedom and Democracy in Cuba. #2, e/ Agramonte y Santa Lucía, Caibaiguán. Ten

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 169 people participated. National Movement of Civic Resistance “Pedro Source: Margarito Broche Espinosa, National Luis Boitel”. Association of Rafters for Peace, Human Rights, Camagüey, November 30 - December 10, Democracy and Freedom. 2006. The national period of opposition convened Sancti Spíritus, November 30, 2006. Sixteen on November 17 by political prisoner Jorge Luís nonviolent dissidents with the “Frank País” 30th García Pérez Antúnez began. It will end on December of November Democratic Party and the Cuban 10, Human Rights Day. Foundation for Human Rights celebrated another Source: Guillermo Fariñas, Cubanacán Press. anniversary of the former organization, which Holguín, November 30, 2006. The Eastern grew out of the rebellion of the Cuban people and Democratic Alliance called on the people of the valiant action of Frank País against the Batista Antilla on behalf of human rights defenders in dictatorship. this municipality in response to a campaign of The activity took place at the home of the party’s defamation and lies propagated by the regime. provincial delegate Bienvenido Perdigón Pacheco, “We say to you, suffering people of Antilla, who lives at Calle Obdulio Morales #50, Comunidad despise the present and fear not the future. Do not Las Tosas, Sancti Spíritus. They analyzed past cooperate with those who wish to manipulate your achievements and reafﬁ rmed their eagerness and lack of freedom. Do not cooperate with plots to hurt earnestness to continue working to develop more or harass the peaceful Cubans who defend you. effective and efﬁ cient methods to develop the civil Do not spy on your neighbors. Do not cooperate society in Cuba. with anything that goes against your conscience or They also read passages from Participatory against your interest. Do not cooperate with evil. Democracy: Populism Revised, by Joseph F. Cuba will be free and you will have a voice in the Zimmerman. Bienvenido Perdigón Pacheco, Osmani democracy.” Borroto Rodríguez, Liborio Borroto Monroy, Elvis Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, Eastern Gregorio Pérez Lara, Erin Mena Lara, Paula Bartola Democratic Alliance, Radio República. Gustavo, Ilcia Romero Silva, Irma Gómez Ortiz, Granma, November 30, 2006. Alexis Ramírez Tomás Manuel Pérez Pérez, Julio César Menéndez Rodríguez and members of the Cuban Foundation Rodríguez, Leona Molina Labrada, Edel Peralta for Human Rights inaugurated the José María Rouge, José Andrés Guerra Castañeda, Adriano Izaguirre Independent Library and its collection of Castañeda Meneses, George Perdigón Brito and more than 100 books. The library is located at Calle Ana Margarita Perdigón Brito all participated in Rojas #69 altos, e/ Pío Rosado y Estrada Palma, the event. Reparto El Cristo, Bayamo, Granma. Source: Ana Margarita Perdigón Brito, “Frank Source: Juan Carlos González Leiva, Cuban País” 30th of November Democratic Party. . Foundation for Human Rights.

170 PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 171 DECEMBER 2006

Camagüey, December 1, 2004. The simultaneously until December 10th, International Camagüeyano Bulletin has published Volume 4, Human Rights Day, at the homes of activists in the Number 33 of this news bulletin. This issue features a provinces of Matanzas, Villa Clara and Holguín, refl ection on Christmas and includes a commentary where activists of the aforementioned organizations on publications from abroad regarding crimes of reside and/or their family and friends, according to the Castro regime, section, “Your rights, Cuban”, the communiqué that is signed by representatives and other information of interest. of the two opposition organizations. Source: Luis Guerra Juvier, Nueva Prensa Cubana; Source: Oscar Sánchez Madan, PayoLibre.com. Julia Romero Muñoz, Freedom of Expression Noelia Pedraza Jiménez and Caridad González Solidarity Movement. González, Marta Abreu Women’s Movement. Juan Holguín, December 1, 2006. The fourth issue Francisco Sigler Amaya, Independent Alternative of The Free Cuban, an independent newsletter Option Movement. printed by the Eastern Democratic Alliance, is Havana, December 3, 2006. The Ladies in published. This issue features the following articles White, the wives, mothers, sisters and relatives of and columns: “Is there Rule of Law in Cuba?”, political prisoners go on their weekly pilgrimage to “Alcoholic Cuba”, “Which mission?”, “Sculpture the Santa Rita Church at 5ta. Avenida y 26, Miramar. to the Mothers of Banes”, “110th anniversary of the They prayed for freedom for their imprisoned family death of Antonio Maceo”, “The cooperativization”, members. “Christmas in Cuba: Past and Present”, and the Source: Laura Pollán, wife of jailed independent regular section “News Briefs from Cuba.” journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. Berta Soler, Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, Eastern wife of political prisoner Ángel Moya Acosta. Democratic Alliance. Liannis Meriño Aguilera, Cienfuegos, December 3, 2006. Hundreds Youths Without Censorship. of stickers appeared throughout the Aguada de Santiago de Cuba, December 1, 2006. The Pasajeros municipality featuring different slogans, Cuban Youths for Democracy Movement publish such as, “I don’t cooperate with the dictatorship”, the second issue of its newsletter that circulates in “I want change”, “I’m not an informer”, and “I Eastern Cuba, Los Pinos Nuevos, and the following don’t follow”. State Security forces and the Rapid articles are published: “It is also December 10, Response Brigades that they manage had the job of 1948,” “Night of Hope and Love for a people who tearing down the stickers. suffer”, “Freedom for the political prisoners”, and Source: Bernardo Arévalo Padrón, Línea Sur Press “An interview with Alexis Odio”, poems by Michel Agency, Radio República. Hechavarría and Professor Randy Caballero and a Villa Clara, December 3, 2006. Members of the Testimony by Juan Carlos Hernandez Hernandez. Cuban Liberal Party and the provincial delegation of Source: Néstor Rodríguez Lobaina and Gerardo this organization distribute copies of the Universal Sánchez Ortiga, Cuban Youth for Democracy Declaration of Human Rights in the city of Santa Movement. Clara. Matanzas, December 2 - 10, 2006. As part Source: Idania Yanes Contreras, Marta Abreu of the beginning of the “I demand my rights” Women’s Movement and Yuniesky García López, campaign, activists with the Indepentent Alternative Cuban Liberal Party. Option Movement and the Marta Abreu Women’s Camagüey, December 3, 2006. The Ladies Movement hold a group fast from 8:00 a.m. until in White, the wives, mothers, sisters and family 6:00 p.m. demanding that the Castro dictatorship members of political prisoners from the city of release all political prisoners and prisoners of Camagüey, attend Sunday mass at the Santa Ana conscience, end the repression against the people, Church, located at General Gómez # 400 esquina and the need to foster in the Island a climate of a Bembeta y Plaza de Santa Ana to ask for the peace, tolerance and respect for differences. They release of all political prisioners and prisoners of pray and read psalms and biblical passages while conscience. debating and refl ecting on how to obtain freedom Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political for the jailed oppositionists and how to solve the prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. serious problems that affect society. Groups meet Holguín, December 3, 2006. Activists with 172 December, the month of Christmas, in which all the churches on the island are decorated with pretty nativity scenes. Here two children pose next to Baby Jesus, placed opposite an altar. Note the crucifi x on the boyʼs chest and his gesture, as though he is showing us the wonder, the true meaning of Christmas, the celebration of which was banned in Cuba for over 40 years. the Cuban Foundation for Human Rights and the Alliance President Eliécer Consuegra Rivas issued Eastern Democratic Alliance held a fast from 8 a public statement condemning the government’s a.m. until 3 p.m. to call for the prompt release of proposed measures against labor indiscipline. He Maura Iset González Urquet, who is detained by says that the relaxation of discipline is a response agents of the State Security at their headquarters at to the low salaries perceived by workers amidst the Versailles, in Santiago de Cuba, as well as the release rising cost of living, act as elements that removes of all political prisoners. The event took place at the incentive to work. According to Consuegra, “the the Gastón Baquero Independent Library, which government’s solution should be the transition to a is directed by Marta Díaz Rondón, at Calle Carlos democracy; that is the solution that the worker, the Manuel de Céspedes # 2007 e/ Avenida de Cárdenas Cuban laborer, will have to satisfy his basic needs y General Marrero, in Banes. Marta Díaz Rondón, with a dignifi ed salary.” Juan Oriol Verdecia Evora, Santo Alberto Escalona Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, Eastern Blanco, Guillermo Llanos Ricardo, Alfredo Rojas Democratic Alliance, Radio República. Gallo, Idalmis Desdín Salguero, Nancy Rojas Feria, Camagüey, December 5, 2006. It is known Andres Peña Pérez, Benigno Pérez Santiesteban, that some political and common prisoners have Arnaldo Expósito Saldivar, Mario Rojas Feria, shown support to the initiative led by prisoner of Bárbara Ortiz Piris and Dayamis Romero take part conscience José Daniel Ferrer García. This consists in the fast. in commemorating December 10, International Source: Marta Díaz Rondón, Lucia Iñiguez Human Rights Day. Over the past few days, they have Women’s Movement, Eastern Democratic Alliance, been reading articles of the Universal Declaration of Director of the Gastón Baquero Independent Human Rights, a psalm from the Bible, and praying Library; Dayamis Romero Ortiz, human rights to God every day until December 10, when they will activist. read all 30 articles of the Declaration. Holguín, December 4, 2006. Eastern Democratic At the Kilo 8 Prison, fasts take place as well as PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 173 readings and prayers. Among the participants are Texier Cultural Civic Project was the fi rst civic group Juan Carlos Herrera, Carlos Luis Díaz and Lamberto at the Isle of Pines to unconditionally support the Fernández as well as various common prisoners. . “I don’t cooperate with the dictatorship” campaign, This initiative began at the Cerámica Roja Prison which has been promoted from the interior of the by independent librarian and unionist, Lázaro island by political prisoners. González Adán together with several common and Source: Carlos Serpa Maceira, independent political prisoners. journalist, Lux Info Press. Source: Marilyn Díaz Fernández, correspondent Villa Clara, December 7, 2006. Members of with Lux InfoPress in Camagüey and a member of different dissident organizations from throughout the Association for the Freedom of the Press. Radio central Cuba met for a working lunch in Santa República. Clara to discuss criteria. Attendees at the meeting Camagüey, December 6, 2006. Reports of included delegates from the Martí Youth Coalition, support for the non-cooperation campaign against the Cuban Liberal Party, the Christian Democratic the dictatorship by way of spreading stickers pasted Movement, the Cuban Nationalist Civic Movement, around the city reading, “I don’t cooperate as an and Plantados Until Freedom and Democracy in informer” while at the same time identifying the Cuba. Independent journalists from Cubanacán role carried out by the Committees in Defense of the Press were also there. Revolution in the denunciation of Cuban citizens. Source: Idalberto González Gómez, Nationalist The procedures that State Security uses to recruit Civic Movement. informers and the different ways that informers, Villa Clara, December 7, 2006. The Maceo known as chivatos, operate, are also reported. Movement for Dignity hosts an activity to Source: Julio Romero Muñoz, Freedom of Expression commemorate the death in battle of Major General Solidarity Movement. Radio República. Antonio Maceo Grajales at the home of Roque Holguín, December 6, 2006. The Eastern Emilio Martínez Angulo, San Cristóbal #453 e/ A Democratic Alliance refutes the statements of y Libertades, Reparto Raúl Sancho in Santa Clara. Raúl Castro regarding the Cuban government’s They discuss the life and labor of this Cuban hero and willingness to come to the table to negotiate the so- namesake of this organization who set an example called “historic differences with the United States.” of dignity and decorum. Source: Idania Yánes The Alliance say that the true difference is the one Contreras, Marta Abreu Women’s Movement. that exists between the totalitarian dictatorship (the Roque E. Martínez, Maceo Movement for Dignity. government) and the democracy (the people). This Holguín, December 7-12, 2006. Members of is evidenced by the imprisonment of 300 political the Eastern Democratic Alliance and the Cuban dissidents, the constant violations of the articles Foundation for Human Rights begin a fast and of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the prayer chain to ask for the release of independent discrimination against Cuban citizens who lack journalist Ahmed Rodríguez Albacia of the Youth access to the services enjoyed by foreign tourists, Without Censorship Press Agency, who was arrested the persecution of those who think differently on December 4. Five activists participated at Calle 27 from the government, the prohibition of property #26, Reparto Mariana Grajales, Banes; six activists or business ownership, and many other repressive meet at calle 4, #4 reparto Mariana Grajales; measures against the people. 6 activists participate at Banes. Ten activists The government would need to sit down to negotiate participate at the Gastón Baquero Independent with the people of Cuba. Should that occur, the Library, located at Calle Carlos Manuel de Céspedes Alliance predicts success to the discussions. #2007, e/ Avenida de Cárdenas y General Marrero. Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, president of the Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas and Guillermo Eastern Democratic Alliance. Radio República. Llano Ricardo, Eastern Democratic Alliance. Marta Isle of Pines, December 7, 2006. The people Díaz Rondón, Lucia Iñiguez Women’s Movement, of Isle of Pines show their support to the “I don’t Eastern Democratic Alliance, Director of the cooperate with the dictatorship” campaign. The Gastón Baquero Independent Library; Dayamis Julio Tang Texier Cultural Civic Project distribute Romero Ortiz, human rights activist. Liannis pamphlets relating to this campaign to the estimated Meriño Aguilera, Youths Without Censorship. 87,000 residents of this Isle of Pines and also hold Matanzas, December 8, 2006. Alejandrina meetings at the Pedro Luis Boitel and Carlos Manuel García de la Riva, the wife of prisoner of conscience de Céspedes Censorship-Free Video Room at the Diosdado González Marrero and a member of the Ernest Hemingway Independent Library. During Ladies in White, advocate during the anniversary the activity, it is announced that the Julio Tang of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights for

174 the authorities to “lift the embargo on freedom of letter addressed to Yolanda Brito, the vice president opinion, expression and thought that they have of the pro-government Council of Churches of imposed on the people of Cuba” as well as the Cuba, in which she critizes the organization for its release of political prisoners “so that peace can truly partiality, as many of its members defend what they reign in Cuba … along with love and reconciliation consider the so-called family rights of Castro’s fi ve among all Cubans.” Alejandrina makes her public spies who are in U.S. jails to celebrate Christmas call at Perico, in this province of Matanzas. with their imprisoned spouses but at the same time Source: Peace, Love and Freedom Party. keep silent the atrocities that the Cuban government Alejandrina García de la Riva. Radio República. commits against its own people on the island. She Cienfuegos, December 8, 2006. More than reminds Brito that Christmas belongs to all who 300 antigovernment signs calling for “Change” have God in their hearts – not just those we like. are pasted on lampposts and walls along the entire Source: Gloria Amaya González, mother of stretch of the main street in Aguada de Pasajeros. prisoners of conscience Ariel and Guido Sigler Many of the stickers placed at a public street read, Amaya. Oscar Sánchez Madan, PayoLibre. “I want change, I do not cooperate.” Villa Clara, December 9, 2006. Activists with Source: Bernardo Rogelio Arévalo Padrón, the Peace, Democracy and Freedom National director, Línea Sur Press Agency. Luis Esteban Association of Cuban Rafters, the “Frank País” 30th Espinosa, Youths Without Censorship. of November Democratic Party, and independent Havana, December 9, 2006. Forty members librarians meet to await the dawn of International of the Ladies in White gathered at the home of Human Rights Day at Avenida 31 e/ 12 y 14 #10 Laura Pollán Toledo, wife of political prisoner interior, Caibarién. At midnight, they all shout, Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez, to read letters and poems “Long live human rights!” and committ themselves from their imprisoned family members, and to to continue fi ghting for human rights to be respected share experiences and other information about in Cuba. the political prisoners. Laura Pollán decorates Source: María Caridad Noa González, the Peace, her home for the occasion with doves and a sign Democracy and Freedom National Association of hanging on the front door that reads, “Long Live Cuban Rafters. Radio República. Human Rights”. Journalists from around the world Holguín, December 9, 2006. Forty-one visit the house to interview the women. activists with the Cuban Foundation for Human Following the meeting, and in spite of an incessant Rights and the Claridad Human Rights Movement rainstorm, the Ladies in White marched peacefully in Holguín meet to pray for the release of all Cuban with white umbrellas to call for the release of political prisoners. They also demand an end to the the political prisoners. According to some of the repudiation rallies and the repression against the participants, many of those that see them marching nonviolent resistance movement. They call on the encourage them in their struggle for the release of international community to pressure the Cuban the prisoners. government to free political prisoners, and to Source: Melba Santana Aríz, wife of political celebrate December 10th. They particularly push for prisoner Reinaldo Labrada Peña, Radio the release of prisoner of conscience Lorenzo García República. Rodríguez, the president of the Claridad Human Havana, December 9, 2006. Members of the Rights Movement, who was sentenced to one year Party for Human Rights affi liated to the Andrei in jail for social dangerousness. García is serving Sakharov Foundation, and the Committee for his sentence at the Cuba Sí Prison in Holguín, Assistance to the 2506 Dissidence Brigade hold where he is in poor health. All present recognize an activity to commemorate the 58th anniversary the jailed dissident’s laudable work, noting that of International Human Rights Day. The activity despite his imprisonment, he continues to preside takes place at the party’s provincial headquarters, over the organization. The meeting takes place at the home of Luís Gonzáles Medina and Luz Maria Carretera Central #45 e/ 5ta y Partazas, Reparto Barceló, Calle 40 #2906 e/ 29 y 33, San José de las Alex Urquiola, Holguín. Lajas. Source: Juan Carlos González Leiva, Cuban Source: Luís González Medina and Julián Enrique Foundation for Human Rights. Martínez Báez, Party for Human Rights affi liated Pinar del Río, December 10, 2006. A meeting to the Andrei Sakharov Foundation. takes place to celebrate the Human Rights Day at Matanzas, December 9, 2006. Gloria Amaya the “Frank País” 30th of November Democratic González, the 78-year-old mother of prisoners of Party headquarters, located at the home of Ramón conscience Ariel and Guido Sigler Amaya, shares a Suarez Díaz, Avenida Borrego, Edifi cio 32 Apto. 2ª,

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 175 Members of the Eastern Democratic Alliance celebrate Human Rights Day on December 10 in the municipality of Banes, Holguín.

Reparto Hermanos Cruz, Pinar del Río. 20 persons hours. Nonetheless, 18 activists successfully hold participate. their meeting. Source: Ramón Suárez Díaz, “Frank País” 30 th Source: José Félix Rodríguez Rodríguez, CONIC; of November Democratic Party. José A. Ballart Ramón Suarez Diaz, the “Frank País” 30th of Ochoa, “Josué París García” Free People of Cuba November Democratic Party; José A. Ballart National Movement. Ochoa, The “Josué País Garc ía” Free People of Pinar del Río, December 10, 2006. Yet Cuba National Movement. another anniversary of the signing of the Universal Havana, December 10, 2006. The Ladies in Declaration of Human Rights is celebrated at the White, the wives, mothers, sisters and relatives of home of activist Rafael Madera Lulo, Calle Celso political prisoners go on their weekly pilgrimage Maragoto #113ª e/ Antonio Guiteras y Avellaneda, to the Santa Rita Church at 5ta. Avenida y 26, Pinar del Río. More than 25 people attended the Miramar. They pray for their unjustly imprisoned event, where some of the articles of the Declaration family members and hold their regular march along are given out. They ask for the release of all political Quinta Avenida to demand freedom for their loved prisoners. ones. Source: José A. Ballart Ochoa and Blanca Castro Source: Laura Pollán, wife of jailed independent León, “Josué País García Free People of Cuba journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. Berta Soler, National Movement. wife of political prisoner Ángel Moya Acosta. Pinar del Río, December 10, 2006. The Havana, December 10, 2006. Members of the provincial delegation of the National Independent National Center of Union and Labor Education hold Workers Confederation of Cuba (CONIC), and the a vigil to commemorate International Human Rights PND National Democratic Party Carlos Manuel de Day. Fourteen members of the CNCSL participate Céspedes, and the Josué País García Free People to denounce the violation of rights in Cuba, at the of Cuba National Movement with headquarters Center’s headquarters located at Calle San José at Calle Celso Maragoto #143 A e/ Coronel Pozo #564 e/ Lealtad y Escobar, Centro Habana. y Avellaneda celebrate the 58th anniversary of Source: Víctor Manuel Domínguez García, National the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The Center of Union and Labor Education; Joel Brito, meeting was disrupted by a gigantic repudiation Group for Corporate Social Responsibility of rally in which more than 120 men participate from Cuba. the paramilitary Militias and the Rapid Response Havana, December 10, 2006. Twelve members Brigades. It is sponsored by the patrol cars from of the Cuban Liberal Movement from Punta Brava, the National Revolutionary Police, lasting over six La Lisa delegation join other townspeople in

176 Members of the Cuban Youth for Democracy Movement hold a discussion about the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. participating in a mass to commemorate Universal Cardona, Cuban Liberal Party. Human Rights Day. They pray for the life and health Havana, December 10, 2006. At the home of of political prisoners at the Punta Brava Parish, activist Leonel Sánchez of the Cuban Liberal Party located at Avenida 249 e/ 42 y 44. located at Calle 10, Reparto Capri, 10 de Octubre, Source: Silvio Benítez Márquez, Liberal Movement 12 fellow human rights activists meet to discuss of Cuba. Human Rights Day. Havana, December 10, 2006. Women from Source: Julia Cecilia Delgado, Reinaldo Hernández the Latin American Federation of Rural Women Cardona, Cuban Liberal Party. celebrated International Human Rights Day with a Havana, December 10, 2006. The National mass in the Our Lady of Charity Chapel in Bejucal Patriotic Front convenes a march today at the park Highway, followed by a peaceful meeting featuring a located at Calzada and Calle D in the capital, across conversation about human rights, at the Pedro Luis from the UNESCO offi ces, with the intention of Boitel Political Prisoners Association’s headquarters commemorating the anniversary of the signing of located at Sofi a 330, Párraga, Arroyo Naranjo. the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Source: Roberto Santana Rodríguez, independent Fifteen people take part in the march. Upon arriving journalist. Radio República. at the Park they notice the presence of military and Havana, December 10, 2006. Eighteen members paramilitary groups. The government had declared of the Cuban Liberal Party meet to watch a video Sunday, December 10, “Defense Day”, and as a on civil rights and to discuss International Human result military brigades are gathered at the park Rights Day at the home of Reinaldo Hernández performing military exercises that help conceal the Cardona located at Falgueras 413 e/ Lombillo y presence of members from the Rapid Response Pinera, El Cerro. Brigades. “Before they completed circling the park, Source: Julia Cecilia Delgado, Reinaldo Hernández [the government groups] started insulting them Cardona, Cuban Liberal Party. and punching, kicking and pushing them. There are Havana, December 10, 2006. At the home of people who know how to hit the activists without activist Hector Julio Cedeño of the Cuban Liberal leaving marks on their faces. They hit their bodies, Party located at Revillagigedo #6, Habana Vieja, their ribs, elbowed them and shoved them, and the 24 fellow human rights activists meet to discuss opposition, as previously planned, fall on the fl oor Human Rights Day. raising their hands. They do not respond to the Source: Julia Cecilia Delgado, Reinaldo Hernández insults; they know how to control themselves,” said

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 177 Dr. Darsi Ferrer Ramírez, the leader of the Front the anniversary of Human Rights Day. and a participant in the march. Ferrer values they Source: Amado Ruiz Moreno, “Frank País” 30th of way the group behaved by saying: “The fi fteen of November Democratic Party. us shared the dignity of being able to march as we Villa Clara, December 10, 2006. Political did because 300 people could not stop us. State opponents Guillemo del Sol, Luis Azcaño Tamargo, Security’s repressive machine could not stop us.” Yoel Espinosa Medrano, Yuniesky García López and Source: Darsi Ferrer Ramírez, National Patriotic Alaín Ramón Gómez pay visits to a few of the island’s Front, Radio República. Cubanet. highly regarded human rights defenders—Idania Matanzas, December 10, 2006. Members of the Yánez, Miguel Cabrera and Guillermo Fariñas— Peace, Love and Freedom Party hold a simultaneous and participate in a meeting with members of the activity in various locations in an effort to distribute following dissident organizations: The Martí Youth copies of the Declaration of Human Rights to Coalition, the Cuban Liberal Party, the Democracy passersby in parks and streets of this province. Movement, the Nationalist Civic Movement of Rolando Wang and Valentin Wang in Guareira; Cuba and the Christian Democratic Movement of Andrés Govea Suárez and Pablo Raymundo de Toro Cuba. This constitutes an expression of unity of the in Jaguey Grande; Jorge Luis Álvarez García opposition movement in central Cuba on such a and Fabio Hernández in Colón; Luis Amaya and meaningful day for nonviolent dissidents. Eufemio Álvarez in Jovellanos; Ramón Verdecia Source: Alain Ramón Gómez Ramos. Radio in Cárdenas. República. Source: Jorge Luís Álvarez García, Peace, Love and Sancti Spíritus, December 10, 2006. Activists Freedom Party, Matanzas; Alejandrina García from the “Frank País” 30th of November Democratic de la Riva, wife of political prisoner Diosdado Party and the Cuban Foundation for Human Rights González Marrero. hold an activity to commemorate Human Rights Villa Clara, December 10, 2006. Orestes Suárez Day at the home of nonviolent dissident Tomás Torres, the president of the Cuban Foundation for Manuel Pérez Pérez, who lives at Camino de Las Human Rights in Villa Clara and a member of the Cañas #259, Sancti Spíritus. They read articles Party for Human Rights affi liated to the Andrei from the Universal Declaration of Human Rights Sakharov Foundation, host six other activists with and analyze the continuous violations that the the Cuban Foundation for Human Rights at his people of Cuba endure. They made comments and home from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. They read biblical work proposals on how to disseminate information passages, pray to Jesus Christ and discuss the regarding these laws throughout civil society. They situation in Cuba regarding human rights and the sang the national anthem and then march through Declaration of Human Rights. Then they shout the streets of the city handing out copies of the repeatedly “Long live human rights!” The event ends Universal Declaration of Human Rights. 17 activists at 4 p.m. and the library is located at Calle Jerónimo participate, among them: Leona Molina Labrada, Caballero s/n, e/ Coronel Acebo y Panchito Gómez Edel Peralta Rouge, Elvis Gregorio Pérez Lara, Toro, in Ranchuelo. Erin Mena Lara, Sergio Cristóbal Valles Pacheco, Source: Juan Carlos González Leiva, Cuban Bienvenido Perdigón Pacheco, Adriano Castañeda Foundation for Human Rights. Orestes Suárez Meneses, Segundo Rey Cabrera González, Aurelio Torres. Cabrera González, Tomás Manuel Pérez Pérez, Julio Villa Clara, December 10, 2006. Representatives César Menéndez Rodríguez, José Andrés Guerra of the Peace, Democracy and Freedom National Castañeda, Israel Cabrera González, Ilcia Romero Association of Cuban Rafters and the “Frank País” Silva, Ana Margarita Perdigón Brito and George 30th of November Democratic Party meet at Avenida Perdigón Brito. 31 e/ 12 y 14 #10 interior, Caibarién, to discuss the Source: Ana Margarita Perdigón Brito, “Frank signifi cance of this date. They pass out medication País” 30th of November Democratic Party. “Pedro and human rights literature. Luis Boitel” Civic Resistance Movement. Source: Margarito Broche Espinosa, Peace, Sancti Spíritus, December 10, 2006. Five Democracy and Freedom National Association of political prisoners held at the Nieves Morejón Cuban Rafters. Provincial Prison in Sancti Spiritus hold a 12-hour Villa Clara, December 10, 2006. Members fast. Independent journalist and activist with the of the “Frank País” 30th of November Democratic Cuban Foundation for Human Rights Raimundo Party in Placetas meet at the home of provincial Perdigón Brito, who organized the event, says that delegate Amado Ruiz Moreno, located at 5ta del the group prayed to Jesus Christ for an improvement Oeste #58, e/ 3ra y 4ta del Sur, to commemorate of the human living conditions in Cuba. They read

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Héctor Palacios, a member of the Group of 75 who was released from jail for health reasons, greets some of the Ladies in White after they carry out their traditional Sunday march along 5th avenue in the City of Havana on Sunday, December 10, Human Rights Day. biblical passages and pray for the unconditional Camagüey, December 10, 2006. Representatives release of political prisoners in Cuba and all who of the Christian Democratic Party, the Freedom of are unjustly jailed. Expression Solidarity Movement and the February Source: Juan Carlos González Leiva, Cuban 24th Movement participate with the Ladies in White Foundation for Human Rights. Ana Margarita in the mass at the Santa Ana Church in Camagüey. Perdigón Brito,”Frank País” 30 th of November In this way, the activists jointly commemorate the Democratic Party. anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Ciego de Ávila, December 10, 2006. Members Rights. of the Cuban Foundation for Human Rights At the conclusion of the mass, the activists meet in commemorate International Human Rights Day the plaza outside the church and pass out copies on December 10. The meeting of ﬁ ve activists and of the Declaration. They also support an activity independent journalists takes place in Morón at taking place at the Pedro Luis Boitel Independent Calle 8, #15 A, Morón, Ciego de Ávila. They read the Library. The library’s director, José Antonio Mola 30 articles of the Universal Declaration of Human Porro, has called for this event from prison, and his Rights. They also read passages from the Bible and wife, Emilia Aguilar, is conducting it. discuss the human rights situation in Cuba. The Representatives from other Independent Libraries meeting was a conclusion of the 40-day campaign meet at the Library to discuss the importance of the that José Daniel Ferrer García called for from his recognition and respect without subtleties, human cell at the Kilo 8 Prison in Camagüey. rights for all citizens. Source: Juan Carlos González Leiva, Cuban Source: Julio Romero Muñoz, Freedom of Foundation for Human Rights. Luis Esteban Expression Solidarity Movement. Radio República. Espinosa, Youths Without Censorship. Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political prisoner PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 179 EFE/ALEJANDRO ERNESTO

This is December 10, 2006, Human Rights Day, a date celebrated by almost all political and civil democratic organizations in Cuba. Here a group of agents of the Castro regime are trying to stop some opposition activists from holding a peaceful march in a square in Havana. Doctor Darsi Ferrer is trying to support his wife, while behind her the other human rights activists are surrounded by the mob, which is pushing and beating them.

Alfredo Pulido López. and “Down with exile”. They hold discussions, hang Camagüey, December 10, 2006. Political signs of protest and chant slogans of the movement. prisoners from Camagüey at the Cerámica Roja This provokes that political prisoners Carlos Luis Prison celebrate International Human Rights Díaz Fernández, Lamberto Hernández Planas, and Day. They light a candle, read all of the articles of Leoncio Rodríguez Ponce be sent to punishment the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and cells. discuss this document and general topics relating to At the Kilo 7 Prison, political prisoner Jorge Luís freedom and democracy. Inmates Lázaro González García Pérez Antúnez and Alejandro González Raga Adán and René Montes de Oca lead the discussion. fast and pray to conclude the period of reﬂ ection At the nearby Kilo 8 Prison, political prisoners called by Antúnez on November 30. At the activity José Daniel Ferrer and Juan Carlos Herrera Acosta fourteen prisoners participate, defending human observe this day by concluding the month-long call rights and praying in particular for the health of that began on November 10 of hanging signs on the political prisoner Normando Hernández González, bars of their jail cells reading, “Long live International who is seriously ill. They also sent a denunciation Human Rights Day”, “Long live democracy”, “Long to the Cuban Foundation for Human Rights, with live Cuba, free of the claws of the tyrant-in-chief”, the request that it be shared with international

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A government mob pushes the opposition activist Carlos Ríos (above, center) and another unidentiﬁ ed opposition activist in an attempt to prevent a march organized by the National Council of the National Patriotic Front on Sunday, December 10, Human Rights Day. Some 200 henchmen of the regime used force to prevent the progress of the peaceful march. organizations. in Cuba, especially for Hernández González and Source: Marilyn Díaz Fernández, correspondent Alfredo Pulido López, members of the Group of 75 with Lux InfoPress and a member of the Association dissidents jailed during the Black March of Cuba, for the Freedom of the Press. Radio República. and who are both extremely ill. Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, Eastern Democratic Source: Juan Carlos González Leiva, Cuban Alliance. José Daniel Ferrer García, Christian Foundation for Human Rights. Emilia Aguilar Liberation Movement. Juan Carlos González Leiva, Castro, wife of José Mola Porro. Cuban Foundation for Human Rights. Camagüey, December 10, 2006. The meeting Camagüey, December 10, 2006. The Pedro Luis of the members of the Freedom of Expression Boitel Independent Library, which is led by political Solidarity Movement begins commemorating the prisoner José Antonio Mola Porro, and located at 58th anniversary of the Universal Proclamation on Calle Pasaje C #7, e/Pasaje D y Camilo Cienfuegos, Human Rights. The directors of the movement and Reparto La Ceiba, Camagüey, holds a get-together the members present agree to send out an open to discuss the importance of compliance with letter to the Cuban authorities. the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The In the letter, they call on the government to respect participants discuss the social repercussions of this all of the articles of the Universal Declaration of international legal document and its overlap with Human Rights, stressing the relevance of Article the Varela Project as well as with the Assembly to 19, “which establishes the right to the freedom Promote Civil Society in Cuba. The nine dissidents of expression, in all forms of expression.” They gathered pray for the health and release of all note that this right guarantee that those who political prisoners and prisoners of conscience sincerely express their opinions be not “limited nor

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 181 persecuted, imprisoned or mistreated in any way for the Claridad Movement and the Cuban Foundation any opposition, by any means whatsoever, and with for Human Rights meet at Cepero Bonilla, e/ full liberty of expression. To comply with this article, Carretera Central y Calle B, Reparto Alex Urquiola, it would be appropriate for the so-called Law 88 to Holguín, to commemorate another anniversary of be rescinded. This law was applied primarily to the the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The Group of 75 dissidents arrested in 2003, who ended 23 activists sing the national anthem, read the 30 up serving extreme and absurd prison sentences.” articles of the declaration and honor the actions of Source: Julio Romero Muñoz, Freedom of Expression important leaders who have struggled for human Solidarity Movement. Radio República. rights, including Mahatma Gandhi, Lech Walesa, Camagüey, December 10, 2006. Political and Vaclav Havel. dissidents from the National Independent Workers Source: Juan Carlos González Leiva, Cuban Confederation of Cuba (CONIC) and invitees meet Foundation for Human Rights. at the Julio Tang Texier Independent Library in Holguín, December 10, 2006. Activists from Sibanicú to commemorate International Human the Latin American Federation of Rural Women, Rights Day and conclude the campaign begun in the Cuban Foundation for Human Rights and the November by Kilo 8 prisoner of conscience, José Eastern Democratic Alliance celebrate the 58th Daniel Ferrer García. anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human They read 20 articles of the Universal Declaration of Rights at the Gastón Baquero Independent Library Human Rights, Psalm 23 and pray for the release of directed by Marta Díaz Rondón, located at Calle all political prisoners. They also hold a conversation Carlos Manuel de Céspedes # 2007 e/ Avenida on human rights, freedom and democracy. In de Cárdenas y General Marrero, in Banes. They closing, they make a modest toast to freedom. distribute copies of the Universal Declaration of Source: Marilyn Díaz Fernández, correspondent Human Rights and call for the release of all political with Lux InfoPress and a member of the Association prisoners in Cuba. Eleven activists took part in the for the Freedom of the Press. Radio República. ceremony. Camagüey, December 10, 2006. The Ladies in Source: Marta Díaz Rondón, Lucia Iñiguez White, the wives, mothers, sisters and relatives of Women’s Movement, Eastern Democratic Alliance, political prisoners, pray the rosary in Camagüey. Director of the Gastón Baquero Independent Around seven women participate at Calle Palomino Library; Dayamis Romero Ortiz, human rights No 45445 e/ Linea y Primera, Reparto La Mascota, activist. Juan Carlos González Leiva, Cuban Camagüey. Foundation for Human Rights. Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political Holguín, December 10, 2006. Peaceful prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. opposition activists affi liated with the Eastern Camagüey, December 10, 2006. The Democratic Alliance hold an activity to commemorate Independent Library The Apostle, directed by the 58th anniversary of the proclamation of Universal former political prisoner Alejandro Cabrera Cruz, Declaration of Human Rights with cultural activities distributes copies of the Universal Declaration of and discussions about the date’s signifi cance. They Human Rights and other texts from the free world meet at the Carlos Manuel de Céspedes Independent to all of its users. The library is located at Calle 8, Library, located at Calle B #2 e/ A y C, Reparto #25 e/ B y C, Reparto Simoni, Camagüey. Pueblo Nuevo, Antilla. Source: Juan Carlos González Leiva, Cuban Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, José Herrera and Foundation for Human Rights. Luis Esteban Juan Carlos Garcell, Eastern Democratic Alliance. Espinosa, Youths Without Censorship. Holguín, December 10, 2006. Several citizens Holguín, December 10, 2006. Prisoners of shout, “Down with Fidel!” repeatedly during a conscience Alfredo Rodolfo Domínguez Batista, blackout in the city of Banes, at the intersection of Randy Cabrera Mayor, Luis Cabrera Ballester and Calle Céspedes and Calle General Marrero, right Luis Mariano Utria observes a day of fasting and next to a national police station. prayer at the provincial prison during which they Source: Marta Díaz Rondón, provincial president pray for the release of political prisoners. They also of the Cuban Foundation for Human Rights. Luis discuss the importance of the Universal Declaration Esteban Espinosa, www.PayoLibre.com. of Human Rights to their fellow prisoners at the Holguín, December 10, 2006. Activists with jail. the Eastern Democratic Alliance hold an activity to Source: Juan Carlos González Leiva, Cuban commemorate the 58th anniversary of the Universal Foundation for Human Rights. Declaration of Human Rights. They discuss the Holguín, December 10, 2006. Activists with signifi cance of this date. The activity takes place

182 at the home of Francisco Hernández Gómez, Calle Members of the Cuban Youth for Democracy Antonio Boisan #25, Haití Chiquito, Moa. Movement Movement hold a Christmas vigil at Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, Eastern the home of Edel de las Vegas González in Reparto Democratic Alliance. Omar Wilson Estévez, “Pedro Martí. They pray for the health and freedom of Luis Boitel”Civic Resistance National Movement. Cuban political prisoners. Granma, December 10, 2006. Alberto Source: Rolando Rodríguez Lobaina, Cuban Youths Moreno Fonseca, the provincial president of the for Democracy Movement. Farm Workers Party (POC), leads an activity Guantánamo, December 10, 2006. Political commemorating International Human Rights prisoners, Claro Sánchez Altarriba, Andry Day. Following mass at the Catholic Church in Frómeta Cuenca and Abel López lead a protest Manzanillo, the dissidents leave as a group towards at the Guantánamo Provincial Prison in which Central Park and walk towards the Farm Workers they throw out numerous signs from their prison Party (POC) headquarters. However, as they windows to communicate Human Rights Day. The march, they are riddled with insults and threats proclamations read: “Long live human rights” and culminating in a repudiation rally in front of the “Free Cuba’s political prisoners”. POC’s headquarters. Source: Juan Carlos González Leiva, Cuban Youths Source: Roberto Santana Rodríguez, independent for Democracy Movement. journalist. Radio República. Guantánamo, December 10, 2006. The Santiago de Cuba, December 10, 2006. Luis “John Paul II” Freedom, Reconciliation and Peace Enrique Ferrer García, Alexis Rodríguez Fernández Cuban Movement issue a press release recognizing together with other political prisoners holds a 24- the anniversary of the signing of the Universal hour fast at the Mar Verde Prison in this province. Declaration of Human Rights. In abstaining from substenance, they intend to “The lack of knowledge and undervaluing of human demand the release of political prisoners from rights have led to acts of barbarity, denigrating the Cuban jails and stress the signifi cance of December conscience of humanity. The greatest aspiration of 10, the anniversary of the Universal Declaration of man is to be in a world in which humankind is free Human Rights. from terror and misery, and enjoys the freedom of Source: Ana Belkis Ferrer García, Radio his belief” the statement said. República. After expressing the group’s solidarity with the Santiago de Cuba, December 10, 2006. Ramón work of peaceful dissidents in Cuba, the movement Velásquez Toranso, his wife, Bárbara González Cruz, “calls on all democratic governments of the world and daughter, Rufi na González Velásquez, begin to strongly condemn Cuba’s inexcusable acts of a March for Dignity at the sanctuary of Our Lady repression that patently violate the country’s of Charity of El Cobre. As they march, they pass international obligations” and to demand the out copies of the Universal Declaration of Human release of Cuba’s political prisoners. Rights and other related material. They march for The movement says the press release, “is working the release of Cuban political prisoners and an end towards the ideals of the late Pope John Paul II, to repression. who inspired us when he visited Cuba. We are Source: Juan Carlos González Leiva, president, also inspired by the ideals of José Martí, a true Cuban Foundation for Human Rights. Radio revolutionary, the voice of Cuba in the international República. community. Cuba should not go on, forgotten as a Santiago de Cuba, December 10, 2006. The relic of the cold war, a living museum piece from a Cuban Youths for Democracy Movement meet at the failed and discredited system.” home of the group’s national coordinator, Gerardo Source: Julián Antonio Monés Borrero, press and Sánchez Ortega, to commemorate the day in which information director, the “John Paul II” Freedom, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights was Reconciliation and Peace Cuban Movement. Radio established. Twenty-fi ve activists from Santiago República. de Cuba and Guantánamo provinces attend the Guantánamo, December 10, 2006. Activists meeting, together with independent journalist, with the Cuban Youth for Democracy Movement Aidet Rodríguez Rodríguez. They walk along the commemorate International Human Rights Day main streets of this city to distribute copies of the with a march in and around the Martí Park in Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Guantánamo. They later met at the home of one of Source: Gerardo Sánchez Ortega, Cuban Youths the marchers where they have a discussion. for Democracy Movement. Source: Leonor Padilla Navarro, Cuban Youths for Santiago de Cuba, December 10, 2006. Democracy Movement.

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 183 EFE/ALEJANDRO ERNESTO

The Ladies in White march through the streets of Havana on December 10th to commemorate Human Rights Day.

Guantánamo, December 11, 2006. Political are reprimanded by the prison’s guards. prisoner Andry Frómeta Cuenca begins a hunger Source: Luis Esteban Espinosa, Youths Without strike from his cell at the Combinado de Guantánamo Censorship. Marielis Castro, Cuban Foundation Prison after he is punished with solitary conﬁ nement for Human Rights. after members of the Guantánamo Political Sancti Spíritus, December 14, 2006. The Prisoners organization sent out proclamations and Cuban Foundation for Human Rights and Marta

184 Abreu Women’s Movement expressed their support Foundation for Human Rights. Radio República. for the proposal of José Daniel Ferrer García to Havana, December 16, 2006. The Cuban Liberal extend the days of fasting and prayer throughout Movement’s Commission for Attention to Political the country. Prisoners and their Family Members organize a In their cells at Nieves Morejón Prison, prisoners mass vigil to demand that the regime immediately René Gómez Manzano, Roberto de Jesús Guerra, and unconditionally release all political prisoners Blas Giraldo Reyes and Raimundo Perdigón fast for and in solidarity with the brave Cubans who were 12 hours, read biblical passages and pray to God for verbally and physically attacked by government all political prisoners. mobs as they marched peacefully in front of the Source: Juan Carlos González Leiva, Cuban UNESCO headquarters in Havana on the 58th Foundation for Human Rights. Idania Yánes anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Contreras, Marta Abreu Women’s Movement. Rights. Radio República. The activity takes place at the home of José Lorenzo Sancti Spíritus, December 14 - 28, 2006. A Pérez Hidalgo, in the Las Delicias del Diezmero chain of fasts for the health of political prisoner Jorge neighborhood. It began at 10 a.m. and concludes Luis García Pérez “Antúnez” takes place in Sancti twelve hours later with a march to the Rincón Spíritus. Each day, groups met at a different location Church. to continue the chain. This takes place at the homes Source: Álvaro Yero Felipe, independent journalist, of the following activists: George Perdigón Pacheco, Youths Without Censorship Agency. Radio Calle Obdulio Morales #48, Comunidad Las Tosas; República. Bienvenido Perdigón Pacheco, Calle Obdulio Havana, December 17, 2006. The Ladies in Morales #50, Comunidad Las Tosas; Leona Molina White, the wives, mothers, sisters and relatives of Labrada, Calle Obdulio Morales #8, Comunidad political prisoners go on their weekly pilgrimage to Las Tosas; Edel Peralta Rouge, Zona Desarrollo the Santa Rita Church at 5ta. Avenida y 26, Miramar. #2, Comunidad Las Tosas; Sergio Cristóbal Valle They pray for freedom for their imprisoned family Pacheco, Calle José Bernal #13 e/ Máximo Gómez members. y Línea; José Andrés Guerra Castañeda, Camino de Source: Laura Pollán, wife of jailed independent Santa Cruz #26, Zona de Aeropuerto; Elvis Gregorio journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. Berta Soler, Pérez Lara, Erin Mena Lara and Paula Bartola wife of political prisoner Ángel Moya Acosta. Hurtado Lara, Calle Segunda #16 e/ Primera y Camagüey, December 17, 2006. The Ladies Tercera, Zona Desarrollo; Tomás Manuel Pérez in White, the wives, mothers, sisters and family Pérez, Camino de las Cañas #259, Reparto Colón; members of political prisoners from Camagüey, Julio César Menéndez Rodríguez, Calle Pérez Luna attend Sunday mass at the Santa Ana Church, located #11, e/ Céspedes y Martí; Ilcia Romero Silva and at General Gómez # 400 esquina a Bembeta y Plaza Irma Gómez Ortiz, Calle Bartolomé Mazo #2 e/ de Santa Ana. The group prays for the release of all Céspedes y Carretera Central; Adriano Castañeda political prisoners and prisoners of conscience. Meneses, Ismael Conde #165 e/ Guillermo Moncada Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political y San Telmo; Ana Margarita Perdigón Brito, Calle prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. Mártires del Yayabo, Comunidad las Tosas. Havana, December 18, 2006. Wives and family Source: Ana Margarita Perdigón Brito, “Frank members of political prisoners gather at the home País” 30th of November Democratic Party, the of Laura Pollán, the wife of jailed independent “Pedro Luis Boitel” Civic Resistance National journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. The “Literary Movement. Tea” is an opportunity to share letters written by Camagüey, December 14, 2006. At the Kilo 7 the political prisoners and for the wives and family Prison, political prisoner Jorge Luís García Pérez members to comment on the speciﬁ c situations of Antúnez and Alejandro González Raga lead a fast their loved ones. and prayer day in which 14 defenders of human Source: Laura Pollán, wife of jailed independent rights pray for the life and health of prisoner of journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. conscience and independent journalist, Normando Havana, December 18, 2006. Forty members Hernández González and sends out a letter to the of the Cuban Liberal Party hold a chain of fasts in Cuban Foundation for Human Rights, in which they support of political prisoners. The fasts took place demand the immediate release of Normando and at the home of Reinaldo Hernández Cardona, respect for his life asking for the letter to be sent to Falgueras 413 e/ Lombillo y Pinera, El Cerro; the international organizations. home of Leonel Sánchez, Calle 10, Reparto Capri, Source: Juan Carlos González Leiva, Cuban 10 de Octubre; and at the home of Héctor Julio

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 185 Cedeño, Revillagigedo #6, Habana Vieja. Calle 7 sur #1207 e/ 12 y 17, San Germán. Source: Julia Cecilia Delgado, Reinaldo Hernández Source: Luis Felipe Rojas Rosabal and Yosvani Cardona, Cuban Liberal Party. Anzardo, Cuban Liberal Party. Havana, December 18, 2006. Independent Santiago de Cuba, December 18, 2006. Belkis journalist María Dolores Prada distributes Cantillo, Amelia García Vega, Ana Belkis Ferrer pamphlets on the streets of Santos Suárez, section of García, Gerardo Miranda, Yuniel Santos de la Cruz 10 de Octubre, Municipality of Havana, bearing the and Norberto Díaz Peña pray the rosary at the home slogan “I do not cooperate with the government.” of Ana Belkis Ferrer García, Calle 7 Final # 318, María Dolores Prada is the secretary general of the Loma Blanca, Palmarito de Cauto. Light Industry Independent Union. Source: Ana Belkis Ferrer García, sister of the Source: Aurelio Bachiller Álvarez, National imprisoned Ferrer García brothers and member of Confederation of Independent Workers of Cuba the Christian Liberation Movement. (CONIC); Víctor Manuel Domínguez, Sindical Villa Clara, December 19, 2006. Eight people Press. meet at the José Julián Martí Pérez Independent Matanzas, December 18, 2006. Nine members Library, at Calle 3ra y Circunvalación #20, Reparto of the Peace, Love and Freedom Party hold a vigil Brisas del Oeste, to discuss the book, Cuba Today, a to call for freedom without exile for Cuban political perspective, by former political prisoner Vladimiro prisoners at the home of political prisoner Diosdado Roca, the economist and well-known dissident. Suárez Marrero, located at Santa Rita 29 y Maceo, The economic, political and social situation of Périco, Roque. contemporary Cuba is discussed which gives way to Source: Jorge Luis Alvarez García, Peace, Love a rich exchange of opinions. and Freedom Party. Alejandrina García de la Source: Idania Yánes Contreras, coordinator, Riva, wife of political prisoner Diosdado González Marta Abreu Women’s Movement. Radio República. Marrero. Yoel Espinosa Medrano, Cubanacán Press. Matanzas, December 18, 2006. A total of 24 Holguín, December 19, 2006. Ramón Velásquez members of the Peace, Love and Freedom Party Toranzo, his wife, Bárbara González Cruz, and his take part in a chain of vigils for freedom without daughter, Ruﬁ na González Velásquez, arrive in exile for Cuban political prisoners. They take place the city of Holguín to continue their long walk to at the homes of: Govea Suárez, of Calle Libertad 41 request the release of Cuban political prisoners. e/ 3 y San Antonio, Guareira; Ramón Verdecia In Holguín, a group of activists with the Claridad Camejo, of Calle Maceo 104, Colón; Luis Amaya of Human Rights Movement join the marchers as Torriente; and Eufemio Álvarez la Fe, of Calle 30 e/ they walk one kilometer into the center of the city 25 y 33 #2524, Torriente, Jaguey Grande, which carrying banners with large, visible words painted is the Gustavo Arcos Bergnes Independent Library. in black condemning the repression and demanding Source: Jorge Luís Álvarez García, Peace, Love and the release of the political prisoners. During the Freedom Party, Matanzas; Alejandrina García walk, a mob interferes, instigated by State Security. de la Riva, wife of political prisoner Diosdado Source: Juan Carlos González Leiva, Cuban González Marrero. Foundation for Human Rights. Radio República. Camagüey, December 18, 2006. Around 7 Havana, December 20, 2006. As part of the people, including Ladies in White, family members celebration of its 13th anniversary, the Democratic of political prisoners and activists, gather at the Solidarity Party (PSD) releases a statement home of Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, the wife of expressing that today, more than ever, Cuba needs political prisoner Alfredo Pulido López, to say the more open spaces to exchange ideas on issues such as rosary and pray for all of the political prisoners and the succession, continuance, change and everything prisoners of conscience in Cuba. related to the Constitution of the Republic. They Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political calls for a conversation to be able to begin a broad prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. dialogue on the subject, calling on the people of Holguín, December 18, 2006. Members of the Cuba to work together so that democracy can be Cuban Liberal Party hold a candlelight vigil to pray achieved without violence and as part of a national for prisoners. During the vigil, they read Psalm 10, understanding. pass out dissident literature, and pray for the New Source: National Executive Board of the Democratic Year, for political prisoners, dissidents and for Solidarity Party, PayoLibre. the development of the work of women within the Holguín, December 22, 2006. Lorenzo García Cuban opposition movement. Eleven participants Rodríguez, the imprisoned president of the Claridad attend the home of Yosvani Anzardo Hernández, Human Rights Movement, jailed at the Cuba Sí

186 The Cuban Youth for Democracy Movement of Santiago de Cuba hold a vigil on December 10 for the release of Cuban political prisoners. Prison, holds a fast to support the March for Dignity José #564 e/ Lealtad y Escobar, Centro Habana, in that independent journalist Ramón Velásquez which 10 persons participate. Toranzo has begun. Source: Víctor Manuel Domínguez García, National Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, Eastern Center of Union and Labor Education; Joel Brito, Democratic Alliance. Lorenzo García Rodríguez. Group for Corporate Social Responsibility of MDHC. Cuba. Ciego de Ávila, December 23, 2006. The Havana, December 24, 2006. The Members Cuban Foundation for Human Rights published of the Party for Human Rights affi liated to the the inaugural issue of the “Dawn” magazine. Andrei Sakharov Foundation, meet for a cultural The magazine contains information, reports and and religious activity at the home of Luís González complaints compiled from February to July of this Medina and Luz Maria Barceló, who live at Avenida year. 40 #2506 e/ 29 y 33 San José de las Lajas. They Source: Juan Carlos González Leiva, Cuban celebrate Christmas Eve and the birth of baby Foundation for Human Rights. Directorio Jesus. They pray to God for a bright and just future Democrático Cubano. for the people of Cuba. They sing the Ave Maria and Havana, December 24, 2006. The Ladies in pray for the goal of the struggle: liberty for the Cuba White, the wives, mothers, sisters and relatives of nation in the immediate future. political prisoners go on their weekly pilgrimage to Source: Luís González Medina and Julián Enrique the Santa Rita Church at 5ta. Avenida y 26, Miramar. Martínez Báez, Party for Human Rights affi liated They pray for freedom for their imprisoned family to the Andrei Sakharov Foundation. members. Camagüey, December 24, 2006. The Ladies in Source: Laura Pollán, wife of jailed independent White, the wives, mothers, sisters and relatives of journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. Berta Soler, political prisoners, attend Sunday mass at the Santa wife of political prisoner Ángel Moya Acosta. Ana Church in Camagüey, located at General Gómez Havana, December 24, 2006. Ten members of #400, esquina a Bembeta y Plaza de Santa Ana, to the National Center of Union and Labor Education pray for the release of political prisoners. organize a memorial ceremony for union leader Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political Ángel Cofi ño on the anniversary of his death. The prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. vigil is held at the center’s main offi ces, Calle San Holguín, December 24, 2006. Activists with PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 187 December 24 in Banes, Holguín: The Eastern Democratic Alliance celebrates Christmas Eve in solidarity with Cuban political prisoners and shows its support for the non-cooperation campaign with the signs they are showing to the camera. To the right is a little Christmas tree and the signs opposite it wish Cubans in exile a Happy New Year. the Cuban Foundation for Human Rights and the Cuba and the Martí Youth Coalition meet in Santa Eastern Democratic Alliance celebrate Christmas Clara to celebrate Christmas and reaffi rm their Eve at the Gastón Baquero Independent Library determination to continue the peaceful struggle in Banes. The 17 people that participate in the until democracy reigns once again in Cuba. celebration, sing the national anthem, recall the Source: Alain Ramón Gómez Ramos. Radio political prisoners locked up in Cuban jails and send República. out a special greeting to Cubans in exile that remain Sancti Spíritus, December 25, 2006. The committed to the fi ght for democracy. They also Cabaigüán delegation of the Peace, Democracy and promote the non-cooperation with the dictatorship Freedom National Association of Cuban Rafters campaign, both in Cuba and abroad. celebrate the ninth anniversary of the founding Source: Liannis Meriño Aguilera, independent of this organization by restructuring the local journalist, Youths Without Censorship press delegation, which has six members. agency. Radio República. Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, Source: Margarito Broche Espinosa, Peace, Eastern Democratic Alliance. Democracy and Freedom National Association of Holguín, December 24, 2006. A group of Cuban Rafters. activists gather for dinner and prayer for the birth Guantánamo, December 25, 2006. Numerous of Jesus at the home of dissident Silverio Herrera activists meet at the offi ces of the “John Paul Acosta, at Calle Camilo Cienfuegos 124, Moa Centro, II” Freedom, Reconciliation and Peace Cuban Moa. Movement in Baracoa. They pray for the release Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, Eastern of political prisoners and screen the movie, “The Democratic Alliance. Juan Carlos Garcell Pérez, Public Life of Jesus”. Former prisoner of conscience Eastern Free Press Agency (APLO). Rodolfo Bartolemi Cobas participates in the activity Villa Clara, December 25, 2006. Members of and describes his experience in jail. the Nationalist Civic Movement of Cuba, the Liberal Source: Julián Antonio Monés Borrero, “John Party, the Christian Democratic Movement of Paul II” Freedom, Reconciliation and Peace Cuban

188 Berta Soler, wife of the political prisoner Angel Moya Acosta poses in front of a poster alluding to human rights which hangs on the door of the house of Laura Pollán, wife of political prisoner Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. Both women are Ladies in White.

Movement. journalist, Youths Without Censorship press Camagüey, December 26, 2006. Prisoner of agency. Radio República. Ileana Dánger Hardy, conscience Juan Carlos Herrera Acosta begins wife of political prisoner Juan Carlos Herrera a hunger strike at the Kilo 8 Prison and, during Acosta. the afternoon, he sews his mouth closed. He is Holguín, December 27, 2006. The Youths protesting against the cancellation of his end-of- Without Censorship Press Agency honors prisoner year family visit, noting that this measure came as of conscience Juan Carlos Herrera Acosta, one of punishments for his repeated complaints and his the Group of 75 dissidents arrested in the spring of refusal to participate in the so-called reeducation 2003, by naming him the group’s top correspondent program. during 2006. The jailed independent journalist Source: Liannis Meriño Aguilera, independent is serving a 20-year sentence at the maximum

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 189 security Kilo 8 Prison in Camagüey for the mere of the Alternative Option, “Frank País” 30th of act of informing the world about the reality in Cuba November Democratic Party, Marta Abreu Women’s today. Movement and the Cuban Foundation for Human “Herrera Acosta is a tireless whistleblower of Rights hold a joint meeting in Báez to express their the constant human rights violations that Castro support for the Alternative Option’s “I demand my authorities in that prison commit,” the agency said. rights” campaign. The independent press also lauded three other Source: Idania Yánes Contreras, coordinator, correspondents, political prisoners José Daniel Marta Abreu Women’s Movement. Radio Ferrer García and Randy Cabrera Mayor, and human República. rights activist Marta Díaz Rondón, of Banes. Guantánamo, December 29, 2006. Political Source: Liannis Meriño Aguilera, independent prisoner Miguel Ángel López Herrera, a member of journalist, Youths Without Censorship press the Cuban Youths for Democracy Movement, begins agency. Radio República. a weekly fast to take place every Friday that he will Granma, December 27, 2007. Members of the use to stress his demand for the release of all Cuban Youths of Bayamo, Plantados Until Freedom and political prisoners. Democracy in Cuba visited María del Carmen Jerez, Source: Leonor Padilla Navarro, Cuban Youths for the president of the Manzanillo-based organization, Democracy Movement. Radio República. Gulf of Guacanayabo. They agree on coordination Camagüey, December 30, 2006. Twelve between the two groups, without either giving up members of the Freedom of Expression Solidarity autonomy, within the framework of the Eastern Movement organize a children’s Christmas activity Democratic Alliance. Both groups jointly condemn at Calle Domingo Puente#173 A, e/ Dolores the human rights violations in Manzanillo and say Betancourt y Palmira, Reparto Torre Blanca. Twelve they will coordinate on any other activity as they children participated. determine. Source: Julio Romero Muñoz, Noelia Pérez Cedeño, Source: Gabriel Yosmar Díaz Sánchez, president of Freedom of Expression Solidarity Movement. Youth of Bayamo Planted Towards Freedom and Havana, December 31, 2006. The Ladies in Democracy in Cuba. Radio República. White, the wives, mothers, sisters and relatives of Villa Clara, December 28, 2006. The Diosdado political prisoners go on their weekly pilgrimage Aquit Manrique Independent Library played host to to the Santa Rita Church at 5ta. Avenida y 26, a civic and religious activity as part of the congress Miramar. They pray for the release of their unjustly sponsored by the Assembly to Promote Civil Society imprisoned family members. in Cuba. After singing the national anthem and Source: Laura Pollán, wife of jailed independent saying an opening prayer, those present discuss the journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. Berta Soler, current situation in Cuba. Library director Orestes wife of political prisoner Ángel Moya Acosta. Suárez commented on the chapter of “Against All Camagüey, December 31, 2006. The Ladies Hope”, by Armando Valladares, that describes the in White, the wives, mothers, sisters and relatives death of Diosdado Aquit Manrique. of political prisoners, attend Sunday mass at the Source: Idania Yánes Contreras, coordinator, Santa Ana Church in Camagüey, located at General Marta Abreu Women’s Movement. Radio Gómez #400, esquina a Bembeta y Plaza de Santa República. Ana, to pray for the release of political prisoners Sancti Spíritus, December 28, 2006. The Peace, and prisoners of conscience. Democracy and Freedom National Association of Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political Cuban Rafters, the dissident organization led by prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. prisoner of conscience Margarito Broche, one of Camagüey, December 31, 2006. Members of the Group of 75 dissidents arrested in the spring of the Freedom of Expression Solidarity Movement 2003, announces the founding of two new municipal meet at the Pedro Luis Boitel Independent Library, delegations in this province Las Tosas and Sancti located at Pasaje C #7, e/ Pasaje B y Camilo Spiritus. José Rivero Monteagudo will lead the Cienfuegos, Reparto La Ceiba. Librarian Emilia delegation in Las Tosas and Amaury Castillo, who is Aguilar Castro, leader of the group is drafting a also the association’s provincial organizer, will lead declaration demanding that authorities respect the Sancti Spíritus group. human rights. Source: José Ramón Borges, via José Rivero Source: Julio Romero Muñoz, Freedom of Monteagudo. Radio República. Expression Solidarity Movement. Emilia Aguilar Villa Clara, December 29, 2006. Members Castro, independent librarian.

190 PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 191 JANUARY 2007

JANUARY 2007 cooperate with the dictatorship. Havana, January 1, 2007. The independent Source: Idania Yánes Contreras, coordinator, newsletter, University Torch, was published. This Marta Abreu Women’s Movement. Radio edition featured an article titled, “A Congress República. to forget,” describing the annual meeting of the Villa Clara, January 2, 2007. The human government-run Union of Communist Youths, rights activists and fi ancés Noelia Pedraza Jiménez as well as poetry and a special supplement titled, and Ariel Sigler Amaya, announced that they “Memories of a Congress: the future must be were beginning a hunger strike to protest the better”. government’s refusal to permit them to get married. Source: Néstor and Rolando Rodríguez Lobaina, Sigler Amaya is a political prisoner at the Youths of Cuban Youths for Democracy Movement. Villa Clara Prison in Santa Clara. The two activists Holguín, January 1, 2007. The fi fth issue of The communicated their hunger strike to the military Free Cuban was printed by the Eastern Democratic general Raúl Castro Ruz, temporarily the head of Alliance. This issue included the following state of Cuba. articles: “Is there rule of law in Cuba? (Part II)”; Source: Idania Yánes Contreras, coordinator, “Independent journalism in Cuba, a challenge for Marta Abreu Women’s Movement. Radio death”; “A rebellious temperament”; “Beatriz in República. Wonderland”; “The naval base at Guantánamo”: Villa Clara, January 3, 2007. Members “Hell within Hell”; “Human and diffi cult; and Martí of the Marta Abreu Women’s Movement, the in us”. There were also the regular sections, Echoes local delegation of the Liberal Party of Cuba and from Prison and News Briefs from Cuba. representatives of the Plantados Until Freedom Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, Eastern and Democracy in Cuba in Villa Clara met to Democratic Alliance. Liannis Meriño Aguilera, coordinate plans to publicize the “I demand my Youths Without Censorship. rights” campaign, to work towards the release of Santiago de Cuba, January 1, 2007. Issue 3 political prisoners and an end to the repression of of Los Pinos Nuevos, the newsletter printed by democrats and the general population, as well as to the Cuban Movement of Youths for Democracy in foment a climate of peace, tolerance and respect for eastern Cuba, was published. This issue included differences in Cuba. the following articles: “Homage: Words of the Source: Idania Yánes Contreras, coordinator, Archbishop of Santiago de Cuba, Monseñor Pedro Marta Abreu Women’s Movement. Radio Meurice Estiú, in his greeting to John Paul II República. on January 24, 1998”; “Justice and Peace”; and Camagüey, January 3, 2007. The participants “Something to Say”. There was also poetry by in the March for Dignity arrived in the city of Randy Caballero Suárez, refl ections by Juan Carlos Camagüey during the afternoon. The march left Hernández Hernández, and the following sections: the Our Lady of Charity Sanctuary in Santiago de Facts, and Opinions, Economics and Religion. Cuba on December 10, en route to the capital. The Source: Néstor Rodríguez Lobaina, Cuban Youths marchers hope to draw national and international for Democracy Movement. attention to the human rights violations in Cuba. Villa Clara, January 2, 2007. Members of the Source: Tania Maceda Guerra, CPIC. Cubanet. Marta Abreu Women’s Movement distributed Radio República. alternative literature in Reparto Brisas del Oeste Matanzas, January 4, 2007. The spokesman and Reparto Virginia in the city of Santa Clara. The for the Alternative Option Independent Movement works passed out included: Cuba, a political and expounded on the “I demand my rights” campaign. social analysis; The economy today: salvation One of the campaign’s proposals is to disseminate or condemnation; Plantados Until Freedom the Universal Declaration of Human Rights to all and Democracy in Cuba; Bulletin of the Cuban corners of Cuba so that the country’s citizens can Committee for Human Rights; Martí in his own know their rights and then demand and fi ght for words; Universal Declaration of Human Rights; them. They will continue this drive during 2007. The 20th of May; Now is the time for Cuba; I do not Begun by the Alternative Option and the Marta

192 Hundreds of activists participated in the wake for Valdés Tamayo, taking turns in the honor guard.

EFE/Stringer Some of the 75 political activists arrested during a massive repression in 2003 who have been released from prison for health reasons. (Left to right), Marcelo López, Oscar Espinosa Chepe, Roberto de Miranda, Carmelo Díaz, Marta Beatriz Roque and Orlando Fundora, hold an honor guard for dissident Miguel Valdés Tamayo, who died on Wednesday, January 10 at the age of 50 during the night, as a result of a heart attack. Valdés Tamayo was a member of the Fraternal Movement for Freedom and one of the 75 opposition activists who were tried and imprisoned in 2003. He was freed in June 2004 for health reasons. PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 193 Companions in the struggle for democracy in Cuba, friends and relatives of Valdés Tamayo surround the coﬃ n. In the center, wearing a sleeveless blouse, is his widow, Bárbara Elisa Collazo Portillo.

Abreu Women’s Movement, the campaign has been celebrate Three Kings’ Day. The children of party endorsed by the following organizations: the Cuban members, political prisoners Hector Raúl Valle and Foundation for Human Rights in Ciego de Ávila, José Ubaldo Izquierdo, and other neighborhood the Eastern Democratic Alliance—which includes children joined in the festivities. They shared soda, numerous groups from throughout eastern Cuba, candies, cake and gifts that had been donated by the “Frank País” 30th of November Democratic members of the party and others who sympathize Party, the National Association of Rafters for with its cause. They held raffl es and played games Human Rights, Peace, Democracy and Freedom like Pin the Tail on the Donkey. The organizers also and the Liberal Party of Cuba. passed out children’s books donated by the Andrei Source: Oscar Sánchez Madán, independent Dimitri Sakharov Independent Library, where the journalist and spokesman for the Alternative party was held. The library is located at Avenida 40 Option Independent Movement. Radio República. #2506 e/ 29 y 33 San José de las Lajas, the home of Camagüey, January 4, 2007. Ramón Velásquez Luis González Medina and Luz Maria Barceló. Toranzo and his March for Dignity reached Toranzo Source: Luís González Medina and Julián Enrique en route to the national capital. Velásquez and his Martínez Báez, Party for Human Rights affi liated wife and daughter left El Cobre, in Santiago de to the Andrei Sakharov Foundation. Cuba, on December 10, and have crossed more than Camagüey, January 6, 2007. Independent 300 kilometers to reach Sibanicú. civic organizations joined the children’s activities They decided to march to the capital to demand organized for Three Kings’ Day by the Catholic the release of Cuba’s political prisoners, respect Church, which included lunches, children’s theater, for the human rights described in the Universal choral presentations and gift giving. The presence of Declaration of Human Rights and an end to the the dissident groups was modest but effective, and repression against nonviolent dissidents. the Ladies in White sent presents to the children of Source: Marilín Díaz Fernández, Lux Info Press, political prisoners in Camagüey. Radio República. Directorio Democrático Cubano. Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political Havana, January 6, 2007. Members of the Party prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. of Human Rights affi liated to the Andrei Sakharov Camagüey, January 6, 2007. Numerous Foundation, organized a children’s activity to children celebrated Three Kings’ Day at the Santa 194 GETTY IMAGES/JUAN CARLOS BORJAS/AFP

Carmelo Díaz Fernández (second from left) and Orlando Fundora (second from right), two of the 75 imprisoned in the Black Spring of 2003, arrive at the wake for Miguel Valdés Tamayo on January 11, 2007.

Miguel Valdés Tamayo.

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 195 Hundreds of children pose with the Three Kings in Saint Ana church in Camagüey on January 6, 2007.

Ana Church in Camagüey. The children received Democratic Alliance. Giordana Varela Fundichely, gifts and learned about the meaning of Christmas The Free Cuban newsletter. and the wise men. At the end of the activity, they Holguín, January 6, 2007. Activists from the had a snack. Cuban Human Rights Foundation and the Eastern Source: Julio Romero Muñoz, Free Expression Democratic Alliance celebrated Three Kings’ Day at Solidarity Movement. the Gastón Baquero Independent Library, located Las Tunas, January 6, 2007. Seven nonviolent at Calle Carlos Manuel de Céspedes # 2007 e/ dissidents with the Eastern Democratic Alliance Avenida de Cárdenas y General Marrero, in Banes. held an activity to celebrate Three Kings’ day at Calle They made costumes of the wise men, and then Roberto Mirabal #69, Manatí. Miguel Martorell passed out toys, cake and soda. They also played Quiñones led the activity. games and sang children’s songs. Thirteen children Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, Eastern participated in the event. Democratic Alliance. Liannis Meriño Aguilera, Source: Marta Díaz Rondón, Lucia Iñiguez Youth Without Censorship press agency. Radio Women’s Movement, Eastern Democratic Alliance, República. Director of the Gastón Baquero Independent Holguín, January 6, 2007. A group of peaceful Library; Dayamis Romero Ortiz, human rights opposition activists hosted a Three Kings’ Day activist. celebration at the Carlos Manuel de Céspedes Holguín, January 6, 2007. Nine children Independent Library, located at Calle B #2 e/ A y attended an activity celebrating Three Kings’ Day C, Reparto Pueblo Nuevo, Antilla. The activists at the Calixto García Independent Library in Samá José Ramón Herrera Hernández, Giordana Varela Arriba. Fundichely, Luis Cabrera Ballester and Ronald Ruiz Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, Eastern Rojas led the event; 31 children attended. Democratic Alliance. Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, Eastern Holguín, January 6, 2007. Eight pro-democracy

196 Father Cambra of Saint Ana church, in Camagüey, enjoys seeing the happiness of the children, who have just received presents left in the church by the Three Kings. activists from the Elena Mederos Association, the Guantánamo, January 6, 2007. Activists with National Movement of Civic Resistance “Pedro the Eastern Democratic Alliance celebrated Three Luis Boitel” and the Eastern Democratic Alliance, Kings’ Day at the home of Mariela Castro, located at joined by ﬁ ve other sympathizers held an activity to Calle Carlos Manuel de Céspedes #803. Nineteen celebrate Three Kings’ Day in Moa at the home of children participated in the event. Francisco Hernández Gómez, Calle Antonio Boizán Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, Eastern #25, Haití Chiquito. Fifteen children took party in Democratic Alliance. Juan Carlos Garcell Pérez, the festivities, receiving toys, candies and school Eastern Free Press Agency (APLO). Liannis Meriño supplies. Aguilera, Youth Without Censorship press agency. Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, Eastern Radio República. Democratic Alliance. Juan Carlos Garcell Pérez, Havana, January 7, 2007. The Ladies in White, Eastern Free Press Agency (APLO). Liannis the wives, mothers, sisters and relatives of political Meriño Aguilera, Youths Without Censorship. prisoners, made their weekly pilgrimage to the Radio República. Santa Rita church at 5ta. Avenida y 26, Miramar. Granma, January 6, 2007. Members of the They prayed for freedom for their imprisoned Youths of Bayamo and the Eastern Democratic family members. Alliance held an activity to celebrate Three Kings’ Source: Laura Pollán, wife of jailed independent Day at Raúl Gómez #66 Reparto la Unión, Bayamo. journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. Berta Soler, The 18 children that attended received toys and wife of political prisoner Ángel Moya Acosta. school supplies. Camagüey, January 7, 2007. The Ladies in Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, Eastern White, the wives, mothers, sisters and relatives of Democratic Alliance. Gabriel Yosmar Díaz Sánchez, political prisoners, attended Sunday mass at the Youths of Bayamo Plantados Until Freedom and Santa Ana Church in Camagüey, located at General Democracy in Cuba. Liannis Meriño Aguilera, Gómez #400, esquina a Bembeta y Plaza de Santa Youth Without Censorship press agency. Radio Ana, to pray for the release of political prisoners República. and prisoners of conscience.

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 197 Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political in the “I demand my rights” national campaign. A prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. few weeks ago, members of the Alternative Option Isla de Pinos, January 8, 2007. The Julio began holding seminars with groups of three to fi ve Tang Texier Cultural Civic Project began vigils in sympathizers. During these meetings, they passed support of the “Freedom without exile for Cuba’s out copies of the Universal Declaration of Human political prisoners” campaign. During the vigil, Rights and trained them on how to disseminate this they demanded the unconditional release of local document and the other messages of the campaign. political prisoners Rolando Jiménez Posada, Fabio Sigler said that the population is interested in Prieto Llorente and Rafael Millet Leiva. the campaign and the rights established in the Source: Carlos Serpa Maceira, independent international rights convention. journalist, Lux Info Press. Source: Oscar Sánchez Madam, independent Villa Clara, January 8, 2007. As part of the “I journalist. Radio República. do not cooperate with the dictatorship” campaign, Granma, January 10, 2007. A group comprising members of the Liberal Party of Cuba distributed members of multiple dissident organizations and hundreds of copies of the Universal Declaration of independent librarians met at a home in Manzanillo Human Rights. They also passed out pamphlets at 6 p.m. for a prayer chain that lasted until the next from the Assembly to Promote Civil Society in Cuba day, when the funeral for Miguel Valdés Tamayo was and issues of the Plantados magazine. planned. Valdés Tamayo was one of the Group of 75 The campaign is intended to boost citizen awareness dissidents arrested in the spring of 2003. According to discourage participation in the repudiation rallies to the declaration affi rmed by the activists, he set an and state-sponsored public events, as well as to example in the fi ght for freedom in Cuba. avoid membership in the government organizations Source: Tania de la Torre Montesinos, “El Grito and paramilitary groups. de la Patria” Independent Press Bureau. Radio Source: Idania Yánes Contreras, coordinator, República. Marta Abreu Women’s Movement. Radio República. Havana, January 11, 2007. Opposition leaders, Yuniesky García López, Liberal Party of Cuba. including Marta Beatriz Roque, Vadimiro Roca, Las Tunas, January 8, 2007. The National Elizardo Sánchez, members of the Ladies in White, Independent Workers Confederation of Cuba and European diplomats met at the Colón cemetery (CONIC) and Eastern Democratic Alliance are to bid a fi nal farewell to the great opposition leader in charge of running a new Independent Library Miguel Valdés Tamayo. inaugurated this day in Manatí, Las Tunas. In a eulogy for the late activist, independent union Miguel Martorel, the CONIC delegate in Manatí and organizer Carmelo Díaz Fernández, sentenced to 16 the provincial president of the Eastern Democratic years in prison in the Black Spring of 2003 but free Alliance, said that the groups propose “creating a on conditional release for health reasons, described space in this community to debate uncensored the ethical principles of Miguelito, as they called information where lies and hypocrisy do not come him, and the altruism with which he dedicated between the reader and the written word.” himself to work for a better Cuba. Source: Alejandro Morales, Youths Without Earlier, guards of honor by activists from many Censorship. Cubanet. different dissident groups watched over the mortal Havana, January 9, 2007. The Cuban remains of Valdés Tamayo during his wake. Commission on Human Rights and National Source: Carlos Serpa Maceira, Sindical Press Reconciliation issued an end-of-year report, noting Agency and director of the Cuba-Miami that the human rights, political and economic Information Bridge Independent Press Bureau. situation was unfavorable and tended to worsen Radio República. EFE. during the second half of 2006. The report added Matanzas, January 11, 2007. Political prisoner that Raúl Castro, acting president since July 31, Julio César López Rodríguez declared a hunger 2006, “has done nothing to improve the critical strike to demand a trial. He has been imprisoned for situation regarding the aforementioned rights.” more than one year without being charged. During Source: Elizardo Sánchez Santacruz, Cuban his strike, he even refused family visits. He is in Commission on Human Rights. Richard Roselló. poor health in the Canaleta Prison in Matanzas. Cubanet. Source: Ahmed Rodríguez Albacia, Youths Without Matanzas, January 10, 2007. Juan Francisco Censorship. Cubanet. Sigler of the executive board of the Alternative Villa Clara, January 11, 2007. A group of Option Independent Movement described progress activists met to establish the Miguel Valdés Tamayo

198 Some Ladies in White and other activists meet at the entrance to the church of Saint Rita, after taking part in the Sunday mass prior to their march through the streets of Miramar.

Independent Library in Caibarién, in memory of Sakharov Foundation. Radio República. the former political prisoner who recently died in Villa Clara, January 12, 2007. Members Havana. The library is located at Avenida 41, Bloque of the Marta Abreu Women’s Movement, the B, Apartamento C6, Caibarién and is run by Gabriel local delegation of the Liberal Party of Cuba and Delgado Torna. representatives of the Plantados Until Freedom and Source: María Caridad Noa González, vice Democracy in Cuba in Villa Clara met to coordinate president, the National Association of Rafters plans to publicize the “I demand my rights” “Peace, Democracy and Freedom”. Radio campaign, that proposes to work towards the release República. of political prisoners and an end to the repression Havana, January 12, 2007. Activists with of democrats and the general population, as well the Assembly to Promote Civil Society in Cuba as to foment a climate of tolerance and respect for inaugurated the Félix Varela Independent Library in ideas and opinions that diverge from the offi cial Marianao as part of the celebration of the Congress viewpoints. of Libraries organized by the Assembly. The library Source: Ahmed Rodríguez Albacia, Youths Without has 27 members of civil society, whose names were Censorship. Radio República. announced during the event. Francisco Borges Havana, January 14, 2007. The Ladies in White, Robert is the director of the library. In his inaugural the wives, mothers, sisters and relatives of political message, he said that the library was “a new step in prisoners, made their weekly pilgrimage to the my life… making my dream come true.” Santa Rita church at 5ta. Avenida y 26, Miramar. Source: Richard Roselló. Cubanet. They prayed for a quick release for their jailed Havana, January 12, 2007. The provincial Pro- family members. Human Rights Party, an affi liate organization of the Source: Laura Pollán, wife of jailed independent Andrei Sakharov Foundation, released a statement journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. Berta Soler, calling on its members and all those in Cuba who wife of political prisoner Ángel Moya Acosta. are dignifi ed and love liberty to support the march Camagüey, January 14, 2007. Independent for dignity led by Ramón Velásquez, his wife and journalist Ramón Velásquez Toranzo, joined by his his daughter. The family is marching to the capital wife and daughter, resumed their march for dignity from El Cobre, Santiago de Cuba. and national unity at kilometer 440 of the Central The organization is eagerly awaiting the marchers’ Highway in Camagüey. Joining them on this stretch arrival in Havana Province and promised to provide of the march were Roberto Marrero of the Christian all the support they deserve and join them as they Democratic Party of Camagüey and Fidel Gonzalo walk through this province. “Do not lose hope; you Palacios Tomás of the February 24th Movement. will not be alone as you arrive in western Cuba.” Velásguez’ eighteen-year-old daughter, Rufi na, said Source: Luís González Medina, Pro-Human Rights that her family was “prepared to face the diffi culties Party, an affi liate organization of the Andrei presented during the march because it is a peaceful

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 199 act.” Havana, January 16, 2006. More than 20 Marrero called on fellow dissident politicians and opposition political activists, including members others to join the march or speak out in support of of the Ladies in White and other family members it, noting that the march’s specifi c objectives fi t into of political prisoners, attended mass in the central the missions of all groups that struggle against the chapel of the Colón Cemetery to pray for the eternal dictatorship. A united front of support is important rest of dissident Miguel Valdés Tamayo. for this project to succeed, he said. After the mass, Lady in White Laura Pollán Source: Félix Reyes Gutiérrez, Cubanacán Press. announced that there will be nine masses for Valdés Cubanet. Marilín Díaz Fernández, correspondent, Tamayo in different churches and memorial services Sindical Press Agency. Radio República. in churches throughout the country for those who Camagüey, January 14, 2007. The Ladies in wish to attend. White, the wives, mothers, sisters and relatives of At the offi ces of the Cuban Teachers’ Association in political prisoners, attended Sunday mass at the this city, a book of condolences was begun for Valdés Santa Ana Church in Camagüey, located at General Tamayo. The Ladies in White, political prisoners Gómez #400, esquina a Bembeta y Plaza de Santa and members of pro-democracy organizations all Ana, to pray for the release of political prisoners. signed the book. Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political Source: Carlos Serpa Maceira, Sindical Press prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. Agency and director of the Cuba-Miami Villa Clara, January 15, 2007. A vigil was held Information Bridge Independent Press Bureau. from 8 p.m. until midnight in memory of Miguel Radio República. Valdés Tamayo, a political prisoner who died on Villa Clara, January 16, 2006. Oppositionist January 10. It was held at the home of Margarito Yancy Ruiz Martínez said that she would abstain Broche Espinosa, Calle 16 #2518 e/ 25 y 27, from food and drink in protest after being detained Caibarién, Villa Clara. arbitrarily by the political police and accused of Source: María Caridad Noa González, National the supposed crime of social dangerousness. The Association of Rafters “Peace, Democracy and activist through persons in solidarity with her sent Freedom”. a note in which she communicates that she had Camagüey, January 15, 2007. Roberto Marrero begun the strike to protest what she considered to La Rosa, president of the Christian Democratic be a violation of her rights. She added that Raúl Party of Camagüey, issued a statement expressing Rodríguez Vélez, who was charged with the same that the release of political prisoners, respect for crime, was also going on a hunger strike. human rights and an end to the violence against Source: Idania Yánes Contreras, coordinator, members of the opposition are not only the primary Marta Abreu Women’s Movement. Radio objectives of the March for Dignity, but are the glue República. that binds the many organizations that comprise Ciego de Ávila, January 16, 2007. Ramón Cuba’s nascent civil society. He ended by calling Velásquez Toranzo, his wife, Bárbara González, on all people to join together and declare their and their 18-year-old daughter, Rufi na, arrived at support for the march. Because of its objectives 5 p.m. in Quesada, about 8 kilometers east of Ciego and intentions, the march should be adopted by de Ávila. During part of the march, the family was all those who fi ght against the dictatorship and its joined by dissidents Roberto Marrero and Fidel horrors, he said, adding that unity and support are Palacios. They have walked about 500 kilometers in very important for this project. their route to Havana. Source: Marilyn Díaz Fernández, correspondent Source: Marilyn Díaz Fernández, correspondent with Lux InfoPress and a member of the Association with Lux InfoPress and a member of the Association for the Freedom of the Press. for the Freedom of the Press. Radio República. Granma, January 15, 2007. The Miguel Valdés Villa Clara, January 17, 2007. Various Tamayo Independent Library was founded in opposition groups gathered for a meeting sponsored Manzanillo; it will be led by Leonardo Cancio by the Gustavo Arcos Bergnes Independent Library Santana. The library’s inauguration took place as to discuss the entire project of the “I demand my part of the Congress of Libraries sponsored by the rights” campaign. More than 25 dissidents attended Assembly to Promote Civil Society in Cuba and the the meeting, part of the Congress of Independent celebration of the birth of Martin Luther King, Jr. Libraries promoted by the Assembly to Promote Source: Tania de la Torre Montesinos, “El Grito Civil Society in Cuba. They represented the Marta de la Patria” Independent Press Bureau. Radio Abreu Women’s Movement, Liberal Party of Cuba, República. Alternative Option Independent Movement, Pro-

200 “Generación Y is a Blog inspired by people like me, with names which begin with or contain the letter “y” who were born in Cuba in the 70s and 80s and are marked by the “schools in the countryside” (escuelas al campo), Russian cartoons, illegal exits from the country, and frustration. So I especially invite Yanisleidi, Yoandri, Yusimí, Yuniesky and others who drag around the letter “y” to read what Iʼve written and write to me”.

Above: The blog Generación Y, clandestinely published on the Internet in Cuba by Yoani Sánchez. Left: Havanascity, created anonymously, which is dedicated to publishing the disastrous state of the Cuban capital, showing photos of the city and its inhabitants. ---

The blog Cuba Salitre y Sal published by someone called Gingle Cubillas (could be a pseudonym) denounces the reality of Cuba and its people and “the interest in the arts and in improving life in Cuba” through the camera lens.

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 201 Human Rights Party, an affi liate organization of the Center for Union and Labor Training organized a Andrei Sakharov Foundation, Cuban Nationalist candlelight vigil to commemorate the executions of Civic Movement, National Association of Rafters union leaders from the Federation of Electricity, Gas for Human Rights, Peace, Democracy and Freedom, and Water Plants in Cuba, William Le Santé Mager, and the Ladies in White. Julio Casielles Amigó and Luis Orlirio Méndez Source: Idania Yánes Contreras, coordinator, Pérez. Sixty-fi ve people from different groups took Marta Abreu Women’s Movement. part in events and vigils held throughout Cuba. Villa Clara, January 17, 2007. A memorial mass Source: Víctor Manuel Domínguez García, National was held at 8 p.m. for the recently fallen activist Center for Union and Labor Training; Joel Brito, Miguel Valdés Tamayo at the Santa Rosa de Lima Group for Corporate Social Responsibility of Church in Ranchuelo. Members of the peaceful Cuba. opposition movement attended the event; Orestes Havana, January 18, 2007. The Free Union of Suárez Torres of the Pro-Human Rights Party, Cuban Workers (STLC) held a memorial for William an affi liate organization of the Andrei Sakharov Le Santé, Luís Olirio Méndez and Julio Casielles, Foundation, called the service; it was led by Father union leaders executed on January 18, 1961, in its Disley Brito. Guanabo offi ces located at Calle 5ta Avenida D, Source: Idania Yánes Contreras, coordinator, #47812, e/ 478 y 480, Habana del Este. The union’s Marta Abreu Women’s Movement. secretary general, María Elena Mir, spoke about the Havana, January 18, 2007. In an act convened importance of these leaders, who gave their lives by the Free Union of Cuban Workers at its Guanabo and served as an inspiration for the creation of the headquarters, members remembered William La National Independent Workers Confederation of Santé, Luis Olirio Méndez and Julio Casielles, who Cuba. Juan Carlos Hernández, the STLC delegate were executed on January 18, 1961. from Marianao, spoke about the signifi cance of the “The memory of La Santé, Méndez and Casielles word, “Change.” Many of those in attendance wore encourages us to maintain our principles of free, T-shirts bearing this word. democratic and independent unionization, an Source: Reinaldo Cosano Alén, SindicalPress. objective for which they gave their lives and served Cubanet. as an inspiration for the creation of the National Havana, January 18, 2007. Twenty activists Independent Workers Confederation of Cuba,” with the Cuban Liberal Movement held a vigil said the union’s secretary general, María Elena Mir to pay tribute to the martyr of the Group of 75, Marrero. Miguel Valdés Tamayo. The vigil took place at the Source: Reinaldo Cosano Alén, Sindical Press. movement’s regional headquarters in Punta Brava, Cubanet. La Lisa. Havana, January 18, 2007. Wives and family Source: Silvio Benítez Márquez, Movimiento members of political prisoners gathered at the Liberal Cubano. home of Laura Pollán, the wife of jailed independent Matanzas, January 18, 2007. Six members journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. The “Literary of the Peace, Love and Freedom Party held a vigil Tea” is an opportunity to share letters written by for the release of Cuban political prisoners at the the political prisoners and for the wives and family Gustavo Arcos Bergnes Library, which is in the members to comment on the specifi c situations of home of Eufemio Álvarez la Fe, Calle 30 e/ 25 y 33 their loved ones. #2524, Torriente, Jagüey Grande. Source: Laura Pollán, wife of jailed independent Source: Jorge Luís Álvarez García, Peace, Love and journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. Berta Soler, Freedom Party, Matanzas; Alejandrina García wife of political prisoner Ángel Moya Acosta. de la Riva, wife of political prisoner Diosdado Havana, January 18, 2007. Thirty-nine members González Marrero. of the Liberal Party of Cuba began a chain of fasts Camagüey, January 18, 2007. Around 7 in support of political prisoners at three different people, including Ladies in White, family members homes in the capital. The event took place at the of political prisoners and activists, gathered at homes of Reinaldo Hernández Cardona, Falgueras the home of Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, the wife of 413 e/ Lombillo y Pinera, El Cerro; Leonel Sánchez, political prisoner Alfredo Pulido López, to say the Calle 10, Reparto Capri, 10 de Octubre; and Héctor rosary and pray for all of the political prisoners and Julio Cedeño, Revillagigedo #6, Habana Vieja. prisoners of conscience in Cuba. Source: Julia Cecilia Delgado, Reinaldo Hernández Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political Cardona, Liberal Party of Cuba. prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. Havana, January 18, 2006. The National Santiago de Cuba, January 18, 2007. Belkis

202 Cantillo, Amelia García Vega, Ana Belkis Ferrer Source: Ana Aguililla Saladrigas, Leonor Pérez García, Gerardo Miranda, Yuniel Santos de la Cruz Committee of Mothers for the Release of Political and Norberto Díaz Peña prayed the rosary at the Prisoners. Isabel Ramos, mother of political home of Ana Belkis Ferrer García, Calle 7 Final # prisoner Arturo Suárez Ramos. 318, Loma Blanca, Palmarito de Cauto. Camagüey, January 23, 2007. José Ferrer Source: Ana Belkis Ferrer García, sister of the Daniel García, a member of the Christian Liberation imprisoned Ferrer García brothers and member of Movement and coordinator of the Varela Project, the Christian Liberation Movement. announced that political and common prisoners at Havana, January 19, 2007. Fifteen members the Kilo 8 Prison would jointly partake in activities of the Cuban Liberal Movement held a vigil to call remembering Martí and Gandhi. The events, which for the release of all political prisoners, especially will run through January 30, include reading the one of the leaders of this group in western Cuba, writings of both forward-thinking philosophers, Alexander Santos Hernández. Santos has been in as well as their biographies. They will recite poetry jail unjustly since 2006. They prayed also for the written by Martí and discuss his ideas, reﬂ ecting on soul of Miguel Valdes Tamayo, and planned to start his conceptions as they relate to the sad reality of a book of condolences for this true Cuban patriot. Cuba under the Castro dictatorship. The book will remain open for one week. Source: Ricardo Llano Ricardo, Eastern Democratic Source: Silvio Benítez Márquez, Movimiento Alliance. Liannis Meriño Aguilera, Youth Without Liberal Cubano. Censorship press agency. Radio República. Havana, January 20, 2007. Following Sunday Camagüey, January 23, 2007. Independent mass at the Angel Custodia Church in this city, 13 librarians from this province met to commemorate family members of political prisoners belonging the birth of José Martí. Political prisoner José to the Leonor Pérez Committee of Mothers for Antonio Molá Porro called the meeting, which was the Release of Political Prisoners wrote a letter of attended by library directors and activists involved condolence for the death of political prisoner Miguel in the independent libraries movement. They read Valdés Tamayo. philosophical texts written by Martí, discussed Source: Ana Aguililla Saladrigas, Leonor Pérez the book, Boitel Lives, by Jorge Luís García Pérez Committee of Mothers for the Release of Political Antúnez, and talked about the mistreatment Prisoners. Gregoria Corrales, mother of political and abuse that prisoners suffer in Cuban jails, prisoner Luis Campos Corrales. as described in the testimonies of the political Havana, January 21, 2007. The Ladies in White, prisoners. the wives, mothers, sisters and relatives of political In closing, they shouted in union, “I do not repress, prisoners, made their weekly pilgrimage to the I do not repudiate, I do not cooperate, I want Santa Rita church at 5ta. Avenida y 26, Miramar. change!” They prayed for freedom for their imprisoned Source: Julio Romero Muñoz. Emilia Aguilar family members. Castro, wife of José Antonio Mola Porro. Radio Source: Laura Pollán, wife of jailed independent República. journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. Berta Soler, Villa Clara, January 24, 2007. As part of the wife of political prisoner Ángel Moya Acosta. Congress of Independent Libraries, members of Camagüey, January 21, 2007. The Ladies in various dissident organizations met at the Miguel White, the wives, mothers, sisters and relatives of Valdés Tamayo Independent Library in Caibarién political prisoners, attended Sunday mass at the to analyze the work that the library has completed Santa Ana Church in Camagüey, located at General since its recent founding. They also shared opinions Gómez #400, esquina a Bembeta y Plaza de Santa about the words, “change” and “non-cooperation”, Ana, to pray for the release of political prisoners. and discussed the “I demand my rights” campaign. Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political They observed a moment of silence in memory prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. of Miguel Valdés Tamayo and called for freedom Havana, January 23, 2007. Isabel Ramos, the without exile for all political prisoners and for mother of political prisoner Arturo Suárez Ramos, human rights to be respected. and Ana Aguililla, the wife of political prisoner Source: María Caridad Noa González, vice Francisco Chaviano González, held a mass for the president, the National Association of Rafters soul of deceased political prisoner Miguel Valdés “Peace, Democracy and Freedom”. Radio Tamayo at the Corpus Cristi Church in Havana. República. Joining the family members at the 9 a.m. mass was Sancti Spíritus, January 24, 2007. The Liberal Party human rights activist Caridad García. National Association of Rafters for Human Rights,

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 203 Peace, Democracy and Freedom held a mass in of the Cuban mainland. memory of Miguel Valdés Tamayo. Twelve people Source: Carlos Serpa Maceira, independent attended the mass in Cabaiguán. journalist, Lux Info Press. The group also hung signs on the doors of their Havana, January 28, 2007. The Ladies in homes with a black ribbon in a sign of mourning White, the wives, mothers, sisters and relatives of for the death of the well-known dissident. They said political prisoners, made their weekly pilgrimage to they would keep the signs hanging until February the Santa Rita church at 5ta. Avenida y 26, Miramar. 10. They prayed for freedom for their imprisoned family Source: José Ramón Borges, Sancti Spíritus members. delegate of the National Association of Rafters for Source: Laura Pollán, wife of jailed independent Human Rights, Peace, Democracy and Freedom. journalist Héctor Maseda Gutiérrez. Berta Soler, Radio República. wife of political prisoner Ángel Moya Acosta. Isla de Pinos, January 25, 2007. The Julio Havana, January 28, 2007. Fourteen members Tang Texier Cultural Civic Project held a vigil in of the Liberal Party of Cuba held a conference to support of the “Freedom without exile for political commemorate the birth of José Martí. They read prisoners in Cuba” campaign. During the solemn facts about the life of the Cuban hero and discussed event, they distributed information and screened his achievements. The activity was held at the home the documentary, “As they saw them leaving,” of Reinaldo Hernández Cardona, at Falgueras 413 produced by exiled Cubans. e/ Lombillo y Pinera, El Cerro. Source: Carlos Serpa Maceira, independent Source: Julia Cecilia Delgado, Reinaldo Hernández journalist, Lux Info Press. Radio República. Cardona, Liberal Party of Cuba. Villa Clara, January 25, 2007. Members of the Havana, January 28, 2007. A vigil was held to Liberal Party of Cuba distributed censored literature honor the birth of José Martí at the Sacred Heart in Santa Clara to protest the imprisonment of Yancy Catholic Church on Calle José Martí, Reparto El Ruiz, who was sentenced on January 23 to one year in Diezmero, San Miguel del Padrón Municipality. jail for the alleged crime of social dangerousness. About nine activists with the “Frank País” 30th of They distributed copies of the Universal Declaration November Democratic Party partook in the religious of Human Rights, issues of the weekly pamphlet service. printed by the Plantados Until Freedom and Source: Raiza Martínez, “Frank País” 30th of Democracy in Cuba and a few issues of El Nuevo November Democratic Party, Havana. Herald. When passing out the literature, they Havana, January 28, 2007. Members of the commented to each person about the arbitrary National Center for Union and Labor Training held jailing of Yancy Ruiz. an event to commemorate the birth of José Martí. Source: Yoel Espinosa Medrano, Cubanacán Press. Ten people participated at the center’s ofﬁ ces, Cubanet. Calle San José #564 e/ Lealtad y Escobar, Centro Santiago de Cuba, January 25, 2006. Prisoner Habana. of conscience Lázaro González Rojas announced Source: Víctor Manuel Domínguez García, that he had begun a hunger strike in the Aguadores National Union and Labor Training Center. Joel Prison in this province to protest the harassment he Brito, Group for Corporate Social Responsibility of suffers at the hands of State Security and to demand Cuba. his transfer to the Mafo jail in Contramaestre, where Havana, January 28, 2007. The Havana he is from. Masons’ Lodge celebrated its anniversary with a González Rojas was accused of the alleged crime of commemorative event in front of the monument to social dangerousness and sentenced to three years Cuban independence hero José Julián Martí Pérez. in jail. The activists all wore white, drawing a large crowd Source: Luis Esteban Espinosa, Youths Without who enjoyed the cultural presentations by artists Censorship. Radio República. on the patio and inside the lodge. The Masons Isla de Pinos, January 28, 2007. In spite of gave a brief history of their organization in Cuba the threats from political police in Isla de Pinos, and of José Martí, and a group of them hung a members of the Julio Tang Texier Cultural Civic ﬂ oral offering on the mausoleum erected to Martí Project and the Isla de Pinos Foundation for in Havana’s Central Park, paying homage to the Human Rights and Territorial Development held a venerable Mason and apostle. vigil at the El Abra farm to mark the birth of Cuban Source: Leonel Alberto Pérez Belette, Cubanet. Apostle José Martí. Martí stayed at this farm when Havana, January 28, 2007. Members of the Spanish colonial power in Cuba forced him out the Orthodox Liberal Party celebrated the 154th

204 anniversary of the birth of José Martí and the birth of José Martí by depositing fl oral offerings sixth anniversary of the founding of the Eduardo at the bust of the Cuban hero in Colón. Among the Chibás Independent Library, located at the party’s participants were Ramón Verdecia and Jorge Luis headquarters. Just 12 of the 30 dissidents invited Alvarez. were able to attend, due to the repressive actions Source: Jorge Luis Alvarez García, Peace, Love of the Rapid Response Brigades that prevented the and Freedom Party. Alejandrina García de la others from leaving their homes. Yet despite the Riva, wife of political prisoner Diosdado González repression, the meeting went on, with discussions Marrero. of Martí and the projects at the Eduardo Chibás Matanzas, January 28, 2007. Members of the Independent Library. Peace, Love and Freedom Party commemorated the Source: Roberto Santana Rodríguez, independent birth of José Martí by depositing fl oral offerings journalist. Radio República. at the bust of the Cuban hero in Guareira. Among Havana, January 28, 2007. Twelve members of the participants were Andrés Govea Suárez and the Cuban Liberal Movement from the Punta Brava, Rolando Wang. La Lisa, delegation marched through the streets of Source: Jorge Luís Álvarez García, Peace, Love and Punta Brava in homage to José Martí, marching Freedom Party, Matanzas; Alejandrina García from the organization’s offi ces to the Martí bust in de la Riva, wife of political prisoner Diosdado the Punta Brava park. González Marrero. Source: Silvio Benítez Márquez, Movimiento Matanzas, January 28, 2007. Luis Amaya of Liberal Cubano. the Peace, Love and Freedom Party commemorated Havana, January 28, 2007. The Leonor Pérez the birth of José Martí by depositing fl oral offerings Committee of Mothers for the Release of Political at the bust of the Cuban hero in Jaguey Grande. Prisoners commemorated the anniversary of the Source: Jorge Luís Álvarez García, Peace, Love and birth of José Martí. During the vigil, they read Freedom Party, Matanzas; Alejandrina García poetry that Martí dedicated to his mother, Leonor de la Riva, wife of political prisoner Diosdado Pérez. They also read biographical information González Marrero. about Martí. Villa Clara, January 28, 2007. Members of Source: Ana Aguililla Saladrigas, Leonor Pérez the National Association of Rafters for Human Committee of Mothers for the Release of Political Rights, Peace, Democracy and Freedom paid Prisoners. homage to José Martí with an event that ran from Havana, January 28, 2007. Prisoner Emilio 11 a.m. to midnight. They read works analyzing his González Peñalver tossed copies of the Universal achievements, his historical legacy and his relevance Declaration of Human Rights from the windows of in the contemporary context. They awarded the Cellblock #3 at the maximum security Combinado “Kiss of the Fatherland” prize to four outstanding del Este Prison. activists from this organization: Osvaldo Gaicendía Source: Ángel Enrique Fernández Rivero, political Palacios, Ramón Norberto Martín Ruíz, Rolando prisoner. Mario Echavarría Driggs, independent Pastor Cabello Garma, and medical Doctor José journalist. Luís Coma Mendiola. The prize consisted of 200 Havana, January 28, 2007. The Pro-Human Cuban pesos. The event took place at the home Rights Party, an affi liate organization of the Andrei of Margarito Broche Espinosa, located at Calle 16 Sakharov Foundation, paid homage to the Cuban #2518 e/ 25 y 27, Caibarién. hero of independence José Martí on the 154th Source: Margarito Broche Espinosa, National anniversary of his birth. Members met for a vigil Association of Rafters for Peace, Democracy and in his honor and called for liberty for the people of Freedom. Cuba and for all political prisoners. They shared Villa Clara, January 28, 2007. A number of information about the life and work of Martí and youths with the Martí Youth Coalition in the city culminated the activity with a group prayer that of Santa Clara met at the home of independent their dream of seeing a free homeland “with all and librarian Joel Espinosa Medrano to celebrate the for the good of all” would soon be a reality. anniversary of the birth of Martí. They refl ected on Source: Luís González Medina and Julián Enrique the importance of his life work and read some of Martínez Báez, Pro-Human Rights Party, an his poetry. At the end of the meeting, they gathered affi liate organization of the Andrei Sakharov outside of Espinosa’s house to pray to God for Martí Foundation. and for the suffering nation of Cuba. Matanzas, January 28, 2007. Members of the Source: Alain Gómez Ramos, Christian Democratic Peace, Love and Freedom Party commemorated the Movement of Cuba. Radio República.

PASOS A LA LIBERTAD 205 Sancti Spíritus, January 28, 2007. The the birth of José Martí. Twelve activists participated provincial chapter of the National Association of in the event, which took place hours after the José Rafters for Human Rights, Peace, Democracy and Martí Independent Library was founded at the same Freedom recalled Martí on the anniversary of his location. birth. In the meeting held at the Segundo Borges Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, Eastern Arzola Independent Library, they prayed for Democratic Alliance. political prisoners, read from the book, Martí in Holguín, January 28, 2007. Ten activists his own words, and built on the words of Martí to commemorated the birth of apostle José Martí with analyze the contemporary Cuban situation. a discussion of his works at the home of Francisco They also discussed plans for 2007 in this province; Hernández Gómez, at Antonio Boizán #25 Haití they said they planned to continue holding candlelight Chiquito, Moa. vigils in 12 different homes and to promote the “I Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, Eastern do not cooperate with the dictatorship” and “I want Democratic Alliance. Juan Carlos Garcell Pérez, change” campaigns. Eastern Free Press Agency (APLO). Source: José Ramón Borges, Sancti Spíritus Holguín, January 28, 2007. Activists from the delegate of the National Association of Rafters for Cuban Human Rights Foundation, the Eastern Human Rights, Peace, Democracy and Freedom. Democratic Alliance and Latin American Federation Radio República. of Rural Women celebrated the birth of Cuban apostle Camagüey, January 28, 2007. The Ladies José Martí at the Gastón Baquero Independent in White, the wives, mothers, sisters and family Library, located at Calle Carlos Manuel de Céspedes members of political prisoners from Camagüey, # 2007 e/ Avenida de Cárdenas y General Marrero, attended Sunday mass at the Santa Ana Church, in Banes. Later, in the Plaza Martí in Banes, they located at General Gómez # 400 esquina a Bembeta deposited a fl oral offering at the base of his statue y Plaza de Santa Ana. The group prayed for the in memory of his birth. They discussed the verses release of all political prisoners. of the poet, philosopher and freedom fi ghter. Source: Rebeca Rodríguez Souto, wife of political Marta Díaz Rondón, Juan Oriol Verdecia Evora, prisoner Alfredo Pulido López. Santo Alberto Escalona Blanco, Arnaldo Exposito Camagüey, January 28, 2007. The Julio Zaldivar, Benigno Pérez Santiesteban, Idalmis Tang Texier Independent Library in Sibanicú Desdín Salguero, Dayamis Romero Ortiz, Bárbara commemorated the birth of José Martí. Those Ortiz Piris and Nancy Rojas Feria participated in gathered analyzed some of his ideas, especially those the event. relating to the freedom of men and of Cuba. Lázaro Source: Marta Díaz Rondón, Lucia Iñiguez González, labor leader and independent librarian, Women’s Movement, Eastern Democratic Alliance, sent a letter from prison where he has been held Director of the Gastón Baquero Independent for more than two years, sending his support to the Library. Dayamis Romero Ortiz, human rights meeting’s participants. activist. Source: Marilín Díaz Fernández, Sindical Press, Santiago de Cuba, January 28, 2007. The Pro-Freedom of the Press Association. Radio Cuban Movement of Youths for Democracy held República. an activity in homage to José Martí at a bust of the Las Tunas, January 28, 2007. A new José Martí hero next to the Santa Ifi genia Cemetery. Cemetery Pérez Independent Library was founded in Manatí regulations prevented the youths from reaching in homage to the 154th anniversary of the birth of the Cuban apostle’s mausoleum. They deposited a the Cuban hero. The library, which is located in the fl oral offering and read a letter, a verse from Martí’s home of activist and independent librarian Victor poetry and some of his philosophical writings. Pérez at Calle Roberto Mirabal #69, has more than Source: Gerardo Sánchez Ortiga, Cuban Movement 300 books. The library’s main goal is to break the of Youths for Democracy. barrier of misinformation established by the regim Granma, January 28, 2007. Twelve dissidents e. and independent librarians met at the Miguel Valdés Source: Eliécer Consuegra Rivas, Eastern Tamayo Independent Library for a conference on Democratic Alliance. José Martí, given on the anniversary of his birth. Las Tunas, January 28, 2007. Members of the Source: Tania de la Torre Montesinos, “El Grito Independent Eastern Workers’ Federation and the de la Patria” Independent Press Bureau. Radio Eastern Democratic Alliance held a vigil at Calle República. Roberto Mirabal #69, e/ 103 y Cándido Rodríguez Villa Clara, January 29, 2007. Three important in Manatí to commemorate the 154th anniversary of civil society organizations joined the “I demand my

206 rights” campaign. The Independent Democratic Movement and the Marta Abreu Women’s Front, the Cuban Commission for Human Rights Movement met to discuss the course of the “I for those affected by HIV and AIDS, and the “Chicos demand my rights” campaign”, designed to Libres” New Independent Project joined forces to pressure the Castro dictatorship to respect human support this important initiative. The campaign rights. After the meeting, some of the group took continues to gain support throughout the country. to the streets to distribute uncensored alternative Source: Ignacio Estrada Cepero, Youth Without informational material, considered subversive by Censorship press agency. Radio República. the regime: the Universal Declaration of Human Holguín, January 29, 2007. Activists from Rights, the Todos Unidos Movement working the Cuban Human Rights Foundation prayed for program, The Republic newspaper, edited by the national unity and reconciliation at the Our Lady Cuban Democratic Directorate, and newsletters of of Charity Church in Banes. They also prayed for Plantados Until Freedom and Democracy in Cuba. the political prisoners and deposited a white rose They also handed out stickers from the “I do not on the altar as a sign of peace. cooperate with the dictatorship” campaign. Source: Juan Carlos González Leiva, Cuban Source: Oscar Sánchez Madan, independent Foundation for Human Rights. Marta Díaz journalist. Radio República. Rondón, Lucia Iñiguez Women’s Movement, Granma, January 31, 2007. A new dissident Eastern Democratic Alliance, Director of the organization was born in the city of Manzanillo that Gastón Baquero Independent Library. will represent the Youths of Bayamo in that city. Havana, January 30, 2007. Reacting to the The group’s representative, Juan Roberto García growing number of stickers bearing the word, Guerra, lives at 6ta Avenida #19C, e/ Calle 1ra y “Change”, that have appeared recently in the Avenida Paquiro Rosales, Reparto Caimari. One of Guanabacoa municipality, the political police the main commitments of the group is to support the began calling dissidents into the police station. As development of dissidence among youth, denounce each was being interrogated, the others remained all types of labor violations and hold activities outside, protesting the police tactics and supporting coordinated by the provincial delegation, such as those detained inside. vigils for the release of Cuban political prisoners Source: Marta Beatriz Roque Cabello, Assembly to and other events commemorating the struggle and Promote Civil Society in Cuba. Radio República. those who ﬁ ght it. Matanzas, January 31, 2007. One dozen Source: Gabriel Díaz Sánchez, president, Youths of activists with the Alternative Option Independent Bayamo.

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