The U.S. Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, issued a press release on Tuesday directed at the Cuban people on the occasion of the 123rd anniversary of the founding of the Republic of Cuba, which is commemorated on May 20th.
Rubio, who is the son of Cuban parents, expressed his support and solidarity with the people of the island, as well as admiration for those who have risen against the repression. At the same time, he reiterated the U.S. government's commitment to a free and democratic Cuba.
In his official statement, Rubio described the Cuban government as an "illegitimate regime" and highlighted the bravery of those who have faced repression
“On Cuba's Independence Day, I want to express my unwavering support and solidarity with the Cuban people. I congratulate all those who have risen up against more than six decades of brutal repression, censorship, and human rights violations at the hands of the illegitimate Cuban regime,” he wrote.
"His tireless defense of a free, democratic, and prosperous Cuba remains a beacon of hope and resistance for the world. Today, we honor his sacrifice, courage, and resilience," he added.
The Secretary of State reinforced his message on X, strongly condemning the current regime.
“The malice and cowardice of the Cuban regime know no bounds. On Cuba's Independence Day, we honor the sacrifice, courage, and resilience of all those who have stood against this brutal regime”, he wrote.
These statements have been widely shared and applauded by the Cuban-American community, who have appreciated the clarity and strength of the words of the high-ranking U.S. official.
In the comments section of the post on X, some have asked for Cuba to become the 51st state of the United States.
Support from Congress: Carlos Giménez joins the message
The Cuban-American congressman Carlos Giménez, born on the island, added his voice to the commemorative event. In response to Rubio's post on social media platform X, he expressed his gratitude.
"Thank you, @SecRubio, for your leadership and your lifelong work in denouncing the brutality of the pathetic dictatorship in #Cuba. Cuba will be free!” he wrote.
Beyond the ceremonial gesture, Giménez took the opportunity to articulate a clear demand from the U.S. legislative branch.
"From the United States Congress, we demand the immediate and unconditional freedom of all political prisoners unjustly imprisoned in the dungeons of the murderous dictatorship in Cuba," he wrote in another post on X.
The congressman also recalled the history of Cuban independence and its relevance to the present.
"Forged by decades of armed resistance against Spain and with the help of our American brothers, Cuba flourished as an innovative and prosperous society. Our mission is to make it that way again," he pointed out.
His statements frame May 20 not only as a historic date but as a renewed commitment to the foundational values of the Cuban nation, which are currently silenced by a regime that, in the words of both politicians, has kidnapped the fundamental freedoms of the people.
"The Cuban people deserve to enjoy the same freedoms, opportunities, and prosperity that should be shared throughout the Western Hemisphere. Today we remember their steadfast struggle for true independence," published the Office of Western Hemisphere Affairs.
123 years later: A commemoration of struggle and hope
The celebration of Cuba's Independence Day this year comes amid renewed international attention on the human rights situation on the island.
Marco Rubio's words not only commemorate the founding act of 1902, but also bring to the forefront the contemporary struggle of Cubans who face censorship, repression, and imprisonment for political reasons.
By emphasizing that the cause of a "free, democratic, and prosperous Cuba" remains a "beacon of hope and resistance for the world," the U.S. Secretary of State articulates a narrative of historical continuity between the glorious past of independence and the current aspirations for freedom.
Frequently asked questions about Marco Rubio's message for Cuba's Independence Day
What message did Marco Rubio issue for Cuba's Independence Day?
Marco Rubio expressed his unwavering support and solidarity with the Cuban people in their struggle against more than six decades of repression under the Cuban regime. In his statement, he referred to the government of Cuba as an "illegitimate regime" and honored the bravery and resilience of those who oppose the repression.
What is Marco Rubio's stance on the Cuban government?
Marco Rubio considers the Cuban government an "illegitimate regime" and condemns its repressive actions and human rights violations. His stance is clear: he supports a free and democratic Cuba and criticizes the repression carried out by the current regime.
What other American politicians have expressed their support for the Cuban people?
Several American politicians, including Carlos Giménez and María Elvira Salazar, have expressed their support for the Cuban people on Cuba's Independence Day. Giménez thanked Rubio for his leadership, while Salazar expressed her hope for the fall of the communist regime.
What actions has the U.S. government taken under Marco Rubio's leadership concerning Cuba?
The administration of Marco Rubio has maintained a stringent policy towards the Cuban regime, including the reactivation of Title III of the Helms-Burton Act and the expansion of the list of restricted Cuban entities. Rubio has emphasized holding the regime accountable for its actions.
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