Ottawa, July 24, 2026 — The Embassy of Cuba in Canada held a political and cultural event at its headquarters in Ottawa to commemorate the 73rd anniversary of the attacks on the Moncada and Carlos Manuel de Céspedes Barracks. The gathering brought together friends of Cuba and members of the Cuban community living in Canada. The evening was marked by expressions of solidarity with Cuba, condemnation of the U.S. blockade, and calls to prevent any aggression against the island.
During the event, Cuba's Ambassador to Canada, Rodrigo Malmierca Díaz, thanked participants for their expressions of solidarity and highlighted the historic significance of the anniversary, which comes at a particularly challenging time for the country. He noted that the U.S. government has intensified its aggression against the Cuban people through measures aimed at tightening the economic, financial, and energy blockade, with direct consequences for fundamental rights such as access to food, healthcare, and the overall well-being of the population.
Solidarity with Cuba
The speakers expressed their support for Cuba and denounced the extraterritorial nature of the coercive measures imposed by Washington, emphasizing that they also affect third countries and institutions, including Canada. They reaffirmed the importance of maintaining and strengthening international solidarity, cooperation, and initiatives in support of the Cuban people.
In his remarks, Ambassador Malmierca Díaz stressed that Cuba will never renounce its independence or sovereignty. He recalled the legacy of the young revolutionaries of the Moncada and of Fidel Castro as a continuing source of inspiration for the resilience of the Cuban people. He also underscored that unity, resistance, and solidarity remain essential pillars in defending the Cuban Revolution.
Cultural Program
The commemoration also featured a rich cultural program, including a recitation of Mirta Aguirre's poem "July 26" and musical performances that enlivened the evening at the diplomatic mission. The event combined political reflection, historical remembrance, and artistic expression in tribute to a date of profound significance for Cuba.
The ceremony concluded with a message of determination and continuity in the struggle to defend national sovereignty, in an atmosphere of fraternity shared by Cuban residents and friends of Cuba.
