Dublin, July 23, 2026. To mark the 73rd anniversary of the attack on the Moncada Barracks and as part of the program of activities commemorating the centenary of the birth of Commander-in-Chief, Fidel Castro Ruz, the Communist Party of Ireland and the Embassy of Cuba organized events to honor these occasions.
The first event, titled "Mirror States," featured the screening of two films—one about Cuba and one about Ireland—created by Irish artist, writer, and documentary producer Caroline Mac Cathmhaoi. These were shown side-by-side, accompanied by a discussion involving the audience and curator/writer Beulah Ezeugo, who works between Ireland and the United Kingdom. Both films delve into the historical ties between the two islands and their respective struggles to achieve independence and sovereignty.
At the opening, Cuban Ambassador Bernardo Guanche Hernández expressed his gratitude for the initiative and the solidarity shown to his country. He noted that the event was taking place at a time when the economic, commercial, and financial blockade had intensified—having been reinforced since last January by a criminal oil embargo that has had grave consequences for the Cuban people.
That same evening, the 23rd, the Communist Party of Ireland and the Embassy also inaugurated a film festival at Dublin’s "New Theatre." Running until July 26, the festival is dedicated to Cuban cinema from the early years of the Revolution and stands in solidarity with the Cuban Revolution. In his opening remarks, the diplomat expressed his satisfaction that this was the third edition of such an event in Dublin and denounced the threats and measures against Cuba implemented by the U.S. in recent months.
He also pointed out that the festival is being held as part of the activities marking the centenary of Commander-in-Chief Fidel Castro Ruz, who personally oversaw the creation of cultural institutions such as the Cuban Institute of Cinematographic Art and Industry (ICAIC), the Foundation for New Latin American Cinema, and the International School of Film and Television in San Antonio de los Baños.
Both solidarity events drew participation from the Irish public, filling the venues where they were held to capacity.