On the 40th anniversary of the founding of Radio Martí, prominent Cuban-American political figures and U.S. diplomats have expressed their support for the station and its crucial role as a source of information for the Cuban people.
The station, created during President Ronald Reagan's administration, first broadcast in May 1985 with the aim of providing uncensored news to Cuban citizens.
The congresswoman María Elvira Salazar celebrated the anniversary by highlighting that “@martinoticias has been a voice, hope, and truth for the Cuban people. A beacon of freedom that never goes out. Congratulations on this anniversary!”
The congressman Mario Díaz-Balart emphasized the relevance of the project: “Radio Martí is more necessary than ever. Reagan understood the importance of Cubans having free access to information,” he stated.
His colleague in Congress, Carlos Giménez, described the broadcaster as “a lifeline for a people yearning for freedom,” and denounced that independent press is illegal in Cuba and that freedom of expression is suppressed.
From both diplomacy and civil society, several leaders have also celebrated the anniversary of the broadcaster, which was off the air a few weeks ago in the context of the cuts imposed by the Trump Administration.
Kari Lake, Principal Advisor of the U.S. Global Media Agency (USAGM), praised the historic role of Radio Martí: "For four decades, they have provided a voice of freedom and hope to the Cuban people through their powerful broadcasts," she stated.
The Chief of Mission at the U.S. Embassy in Cuba, Mike Hammer, also extended his congratulations: “We look forward to continuing to rely on you as an important source of news, despite changes and difficulties.”
From civil society, Cuban political scientist Manuel Cuesta Morúa recalled how Radio Martí broke the information monopoly of the regime: “It was the first time that Cubans could hear different information about Cuba,” he said, reminiscing about the years when the station was listened to in secret.
For her part, the activist and leader of Cuba Decide, Rosa María Payá, stated: “Radio Martí has been a part of my life and that of many Cubans. Thanks to everyone who has kept that voice alive for four decades.”
The leader of the Ladies in White, Berta Soler, expressed gratitude on behalf of the women's opposition group to Radio Martí for amplifying the voices of the activists, political prisoners, and their families in their fight against the repression of the Cuban regime.
Soler was one of the voices that rose from the island during the closure of the station last March, calling on President Trump to restore the broadcast that has been a companion and voice of the Cuban opposition movement for decades.
He recalled that in 2003, when there was no internet access in Cuba, Radio Martí was the only source of information about what was happening with political prisoners and the Ladies in White movement.
Radio Martí went on the air for the first time on May 20, 1985, coinciding with the commemoration of the anniversary of Cuba’s independence (May 20, 1902).
This date was symbolically chosen to mark the beginning of its transmissions to the island, with the aim of providing an informative alternative to the Cuban state’s control over the media.
At 40 years since its founding, Radio Martí remains a topic of debate and a symbol of the fight for freedom of expression in Cuba. Its supporters assert that, despite technological and political challenges, its mission is more relevant than ever.
Frequently Asked Questions about Radio Martí and its Importance for Cuba
Why is Radio Martí important for the Cuban people?
Radio Martí is a vital source of uncensored information for the Cuban people, especially in a country where independent media is illegal and freedom of expression is suppressed. Since its establishment in 1985, it has provided news and perspectives that the Cuban regime attempts to stifle, becoming a key tool for peaceful resistance and independent journalism on the island.
What has been the stance of Cuban-American politicians regarding Radio Martí?
Cuban-American politicians such as María Elvira Salazar, Mario Díaz-Balart, and Carlos Giménez have vehemently defended the continuation of Radio Martí, considering it more necessary than ever to ensure access to free information in Cuba. They have highlighted its role as a "beacon of freedom" and have urged U.S. authorities to maintain their support for the station in light of the regime's attempts at censorship in Cuba.
How has the Cuban community in exile responded to the closure of Radio Martí?
The Cuban community in exile has reacted with concern and rejection to the temporary shutdown of Radio Martí, arguing that its absence represents a victory for the Cuban regime and a setback in the fight for freedom of expression on the island. Organizations such as the Cuban American National Foundation have urged the U.S. government to restore the necessary funding for its continued operation.
What impact has Radio Martí had on Cuban society?
Radio Martí has had a significant impact on Cuban society by breaking the information monopoly of the regime. It has been a crucial source of information during important historical events and has given a voice to activists, dissenters, and political prisoners. Its presence has allowed Cubans to access diverse news and opinions, fostering hope and peaceful resistance against state repression.
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