Pro-Cuban freedom protests in Tampa. go on

Protesters say the Cuban communist government is responsible for the shortages of food and vaccines that create dangerous life situations.

TAMPA, Florida – Protests in Cuba and the Tampa Bay area continue as people demand freedom from the communist government. Hundreds of protesters gathered in Al Lopez Park on Saturday morning to make their voices heard.

“Libertad!” was sung as people gathered around a stage. The Tampa Police Department was heavily involved to ensure the event remained safe.

Tampa Mayor Jane Castor spoke to the crowd and expressed support for the protests against Cuba.

“Cuba is woven into the fabric of Tampa and made it what it is today,” Castor said after her speech to the media.

President Joe Biden has also expressed support for these protests. However, he has not taken any action in support of Cubans struggling with food and vaccine shortages. When asked what she would say to Biden, Castor said America’s support was needed.

“I think that we as a nation have to support the freedom struggle in Cuba,” she said.

After officials spoke, protesters gathered in the streets and marched around Al Lopez Park. Police blocked traffic as hundreds walked peacefully through the streets.

“We cannot breathe for 62 years,” shouted a man on the march. “All we want is freedom. That’s all we ask for: freedom.”

Many of the protesters do it for their loved ones back home, something that is very close to their hearts.

“We are here today because the Cuban government is trying to kill our country – our people,” said Ricardo Olbera.

He has a 78 year old mother who lives alone in Cuba. He said he was concerned about her safety.

“Don’t go into the house,” he said to his mother. “Because she is very old. I said to the young people, go out into the streets and fight communism.”

A struggle Olbera and thousands of others conquered the states.

What others are reading right now:

► Breaking news and weather warnings: Get the Free 10 Tampa Bay App

The post Pro-Cuban freedom protests in Tampa. go on first appeared on Daily Florida Press.

from Daily Florida Press https://dailyfloridapress.com/pro-cuban-freedom-protests-in-tampa-go-on/