On Wednesday, U.S. Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart, R-Fla., took to the House floor to weigh in on the ongoing repression and human rights abuses in Cuba. He said the following:
“Madam Speaker, I rise to bring attention to the brave actions of pro-democracy leaders in Cuba, and the brutal repression that they have faced as a result of their demands for freedom.
“For example, in the last few weeks, the San Isidro Movement has stepped up its calls for freedom and the release of political prisoners. Their protests included such ‘dangerous’ activities as poetry readings and sit-ins. And as a result, these young rappers, artists, and writers have faced arbitrary arrests, harassment, and abuse. Some remain in prison and many of these activists began a hunger strike in protest.
“Despite the brutal repression in Cuba, the pro-democracy movement is growing. Mothers, scientists, and many others have joined its calls for freedom and the release of political prisoners.
“I commend President Trump and his administration for their solidarity with the Cuban people in imposing tough sanctions against the Cuban dictatorship. We all must stand with the brave pro-democracy activists in Cuba, who are risking their lives at this very moment, and join them in their pleas for freedom and the immediate, unconditional release of all political prisoners.”
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