Hundreds of demonstrators gathered in Washington on Monday to demand "freedom" for Cuba and U.S. intervention following the crackdown on historic protests in the island. The protesters, carrying Cuban and American flags, marched in front of the White House and then in front of the Cuban embassy, chanting "Down with the dictatorship" and "Homeland and Life," the name of a song that has become a symbol of the protest movement.
Demonstrators placed signs on the embassy fence reading "We are no longer afraid" and others calling for "U.S. intervention." Yamila Diaz, 34, born on the island, told AFP, "We demand the Biden administration to intervene militarily because the army in Cuba is facing unarmed citizens."
Kat Moia, 22, an American whose father fled Cuba, stated that she came to show her solidarity with the people of that country. She added, "They do not enjoy the freedoms we have here. We have the right to be here, while they are beaten when they do the same."
Carlos Rodriguez, 29, said, "This is the first time the Cuban people have united to this extent, both inside and outside Cuba." He added, "We do not want communism; we want it to stop."
Last week, the Biden administration imposed sanctions on the Cuban defense minister, stating it is seeking ways to restore internet access on the island and to allow Cuban Americans to send money to their relatives without it reaching the Cuban government.
Cuba, facing a severe economic crisis, witnessed unprecedented protests on July 11. Following these demonstrations, which resulted in one death and dozens of injuries, around 100 people were arrested, according to various opposition organizations.
