The Cuban humorous and critical duo Los Pichy Boys took aim at the Miami Marlins, after the emotional performance this Tuesday in which four of the daughters of renowned singer Willy Chirino, along with one of his granddaughters, performed the national anthem of the United States at LoanDepot Park, prior to the Major League game between the Marlins and the Chicago Cubs.
"The Marlins are hosting Cuban Heritage Night and have invited Willy Chirino and his entire family to sing at the park," the duo began stating in a post on their social media.
However, they reported that during the game between Cuba and the United States at the V World Baseball Classic, held in that same stadium in March 2023, iconic songs of the Cuban exile, such as those by Willy, Celia Cruz, or the song "Patria y Vida," were not allowed to be played.
"The day the dictatorship came to play at their home, Willy's music didn't play, Celia's music didn't play, neither 'Patria y Vida' nor 'Ya viene llegando,'" they pointed out with evident frustration, recalling that at that event the stadium security prevented several fans wearing shirts with critical messages against the Cuban regime, including the famous phrase 'Patria y Vida,' from entering.
For the Pichy Boys, the recent "Night of Cuban Heritage" organized by the Marlins is just an empty celebration. "Today, the Marlins are more Cuban than ever. They celebrate Celia, Gente de Zona throws the first pitch, everyone eats bread with croquettes and steak, but on the day we needed them, they turned their backs on us!" they declared.
With a critical tone, they concluded their message by stating that these types of inconsistencies are a reflection of a community that easily forgets: "That's why we are the way we are, because we have no memory." They also shared images from that day that spread across social media.
The controversy reignites the debate about the role of American institutions — particularly Miami's sports teams — in their relationship with the Cuban community and the repression of exile symbols at crucial moments.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Controversy Involving Los Pichy Boys and the Marlins
Why did Los Pichy Boys criticize the Marlins for Cuban Heritage Night?
The Pichy Boys criticized the Marlins for what they consider an empty celebration. They denounced the lack of consistency by recalling that during the game between Cuba and the United States in the V World Baseball Classic, emblematic songs of the Cuban exile, such as those by Willy Chirino, were not allowed, while his figure was exalted on Cuban Heritage Night.
What songs were banned during the game between Cuba and the United States in the V World Baseball Classic?
During the game between Cuba and the United States, iconic songs of the Cuban exile such as those by Willy Chirino, Celia Cruz, "Patria y Vida," and "Ya viene llegando" were banned. This prohibition caused discontent among the fans who wore T-shirts with messages critical of the Cuban regime.
What activities stood out during the Cuban Heritage Night of the Marlins?
The Night of Cuban Heritage by the Marlins included the performance of the Bayamo Anthem by Diana Fuentes, the first pitch by Gloria Ordaz and Leoni Torres, and a celebration of Celia Cruz. Additionally, part of the ticket sales were donated to the Celia Cruz Foundation.
What does Willy Chirino think about the situation in Cuba?
Willy Chirino has been a constant voice for the freedom of Cuba and has upheld the moral duty of exiled artists to denounce the repression on the island. His music has had a profound impact on the Cuban community both within and outside of the island, symbolizing the struggle and hope for a free Cuba.
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