Luis Manuel Otero Alcántara keeps protesting for freedom of expression in his country – Cuba.
And he keeps going to prison for his protests. Every time he is released, he goes right back to protesting. Having been arrested over 50 times, he is now back in prison again, stopped and arrested as he was on his way to a protest.
You would think he would give up – but no, he persists.
Luis is a sculptor and a performance artist – the subject of his most recent art is the importance of freedom of expression. He is an outspoken and relentless fighter for artistic freedom. He speaks out on behalf of hundreds of Cubans who have been imprisoned for participating in public demonstrations against government actions.
Luis has been held for eight months now without a trial. He began a hunger strike several weeks ago and friends say his health is quickly deteriorating. North American leaders and artists around the world have been calling for Luis’ release as his life is now at stake.
Not long ago, I wrote a blog about political developments in Cuba. I have supported most of the ideals of the Cuban Revolution – equal treatment of women, healthcare for everyone – not just those who can pay, free education all the way through university studies, and for all. I have long admired the strength, resilience and resourcefulness of the Cuban people and their efforts to live up to those progressive ideals. But the distrust the government shows toward its citizens – the refusal to institute election processes – the disrespect for human rights and freedom of speech, undermines all those wonderful ideals. It leaves young Cubans in the same position as those who fought in the revolution against the dictator of yesteryear, Fulgencio Batista.
“Deja vivir a Luis, mandalo a casa.” Y deja vivir a Cuba!