Cuba Commemorates the Martyrs of Medicine: An Act of Memory and Student Unity
This annual ritual has become a symbol of resistance and unity, reminding all Cubans of the atrocious crime committed on November 27, 1871, when Spanish colonialism unjustly accused these young men of desecrating the grave of a journalist in service of the Crown. Nov 27, 2024 Photo: @PresidenciaCuba
November 27, 2024 Hour: 10:11 pm
The gathering brought together university students, teachers, and workers, highlighting the presence of President Miguel Díaz-Canel, who expressed his commitment to the nation’s historical memory.
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This Wednesday, Havana was filled with solemnity and patriotic fervor during a massive student march that started from the iconic University of Havana towards the Monument of La Punta, a site laden with history and pain.
Cubans came together to pay tribute to the eight medical students who were cruelly executed by the Spanish colonial regime in 1871, an act that marked a milestone in the struggle for the island’s independence.
The day began with an emotional rendition of the Bayamo Anthem, followed by the traditional roll call in honor of the heroes of various independence struggles. The gathering brought together university students, teachers, and workers, highlighting the presence of President Miguel Díaz-Canel, who expressed his commitment to the nation’s historical memory.
Upon reaching the Monument at La Punta, where the tragedy unfolded, attendees performed a symbolic roll call that resonated with the memory of each fallen young man.
In a touching gesture, students placed floral offerings not only in honor of the martyrs but also to remember Fermín Valdés Domínguez, who tirelessly fought to prove the innocence of his classmates.
On his official account on social media platform C, Díaz-Canel shared his reflection: “With that future we march today. With youth, with those who wear their white coats with honor. They wanted Cuba to forget them, but they are not forgotten, nor dead.” His words resonated among those present, reaffirming the commitment of new generations to historical memory.
Before the main event, a group of students headed to Colón Cemetery to pay tribute in front of the monument that holds the remains of the murdered students.
This annual ritual has become a symbol of resistance and unity, reminding all Cubans of the atrocious crime committed on November 27, 1871, when Spanish colonialism unjustly accused these young men of desecrating the grave of a journalist in service of the Crown.
Every year, the echo of this commemoration resonates throughout Cuba, reminding new generations of the importance of the struggle for justice and dignity.
Autor: MLM
