Cuba Marks Four Years Since Nationwide July 11 Protests, Over 1,100 Political Prisoners Remain

On the fourth anniversary of the July 11, 2021, protests in Cuba, thousands of Cubans originally took to the streets demanding freedom and an end to the communist dictatorship, facing violent repression and mass arrests by the regime. The U.S. government, under President Trump, has responded by designating key Cuban regime leaders for human rights violations and imposing visa restrictions on officials responsible for detaining and torturing protestors, while also updating lists to block U.S. funds from reaching regime-linked properties. Recent reports highlight that over 1,100 political prisoners remain detained, many arrested during the 2021 crackdown, with continued shortages and repression fueling ongoing dissent. Cuban exile communities worldwide are commemorating the protests through demonstrations and exhibits, emphasizing the enduring struggle for democracy and human rights on the island. Human rights organizations criticize the inaction of many democratic countries, warning that continued tourism and business ties with the Cuban regime enable ongoing abuses. The U.S. and advocates affirm their solidarity with Cuban pro-democracy activists, urging the international community to condemn the regime’s violence and support the Cuban people's fight for freedom.