Cuba’s Ladies in White and the Right to Protest

Rosa Martinez

HAVANA TIMES, Jan 18 — The first time I heard about the “Ladies in White,” I considered these women to be exceptionally brave to protest and demonstrate in Cuba, a country where holding an opinion against the social system is a crime punishable by law.

Since then I’ve read more about the group online. To me their reasons seemed just: they were seeking the release from prison of their husbands, sons and brothers, who were taken there during the famous 2003 “Black Spring” here on the island.

Anyone who attempts to sabotage or undermine the economy and national security, as well as try to attack us, deserves to be judged with the full force of law.

But those who believe that socialism is not the solution, those who disagree with our government and its leaders, and anyone who wants a more democratic society should not be thrown in prison. No one should go to prison for thinking differently.

This is why I understood the Ladies in White, at least until all of the prisoners of conscience were released. Now that they’ve accomplished their objective, I no longer understand them.

If their goal was the freedom of their loved ones, why do they continue protesting?

Although I still don’t understand why they continue marching through the streets of Havana, I never agreed with the idea that they be attacked by civilians or anyone else. If the only thing they do is engage in peaceful marches, then they should be left alone.

If their interest is to protest against a regime that they consider unjust, they shouldn’t be disturbed.

It’s about time that Cubans should be able to protest, shout and demand what they think is best for the nation – without any problems.

Unfortunately, that’s not the way things are.