Washington, Aug 13 (Prensa Latina) The Cuban Embassy in the United States today welcomed artists, intellectuals, social activists, and friends to its headquarters to celebrate the life of the leader of the Cuban Revolution, Fidel Castro, on the 99th anniversary of his birth.
With the well-attended event on Wednesday afternoon, the island’s diplomatic mission began its commemorative cycle for the centennial—in 2026—of the man considered “a revolutionary titan, a visionary leader, and an enduring symbol of resilience, dignity, and solidarity,” said Chargé d’Affaires Lianys Torres, welcoming the event.
This August 13th, he said, “we don’t just remember Fidel; we celebrate the indelible legacy of a man who transformed the destiny of Cuba and inspired millions of people around the world.”
Words, poetry, and music came together. Prominent intellectual James Early presented the book “Fidel Castro: A Canadian’s View,” by Montreal writer, academic, and journalist Arnold August, who was unable to attend due to being denied entry into the country by U.S. authorities.
Dr. Early, former director of Cultural Studies and Communication at the Smithsonian Institution’s Center for Folklife and Cultural Studies Programs in Washington, D.C., reiterated his admiration for one of the most influential political figures of the 20th and part of the 21st centuries.
Regarding Fidel Castro, he said he was an exceptional human being who made connections with all of humanity, not only in the fight for Cuban sovereignty, independence, and self-determination.
The evening also saw the unveiling of two paintings by Ian Matchett, whose work is inspired by the tradition of social realism. A resident of Detroit, Michigan, the artist expressed his respect for Cuba, “a proud, independent, and sovereign nation” that “has endured more than 60 years of blockade (by successive U.S. governments).” His portraits captured the spirit of the revolutionary hero, whom he described as “a great helmsman in the midst of dire times.”
The event also featured Cuban hip-hop artist Jonathan Mackenzie, who read a poem and performed a song dedicated to the leader of the Revolution.
Fidel Castro was born on August 13, 1926, in Birán, present-day Holguín province (east), and his passing on November 25, 2016, at the age of 90, caused international commotion.
Throughout his life, the island’s State Security services identified hundreds of plots in various stages of development to physically eliminate him. Between 1958 and 2000, he escaped unscathed in 634 assassination plots.
Fidel asked that no statues or plazas be erected in his honor, so the monolith where his ashes rest in the Santa Ifigenia Cemetery in the eastern city of Santiago de Cuba features only the five letters of his name.
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