Vienna, September 1—Two days of solidarity and Cuban culture, including political and cultural activities, discussions, and a demonstration against the blockade, took place this weekend during the 2025 Volksstimmefest (People's Festival).
The political and cultural festival, in which the Austria-Cuba Friendship Association (ÖKG), political forces in solidarity with Cuba, Cuban residents, and the Cuban Embassy in Austria participated, allowed thousands of supporters to learn about the solidarity work being done for Cuba, attract new members, and plan future initiatives.
In an exchange with participants, Ambassador Pablo Berti Oliva denounced the recent measures taken by the United States to intensify the economic blockade against Cuba, detailed the reality of the country, and called for an intensification of the international struggle against the blockade.
Friends in solidarity and Cuban residents also participated in an act of solidarity with Venezuela in response to the recent threat posed by the deployment of US forces near this sister nation and in rejection of the campaign against the legitimate government of Nicolás Maduro.
The highlight of the celebrations for Cuba took place during a solidarity demonstration against the blockade. The march through the Volksstimmefest area, with flags and banners, showed the Austrians' support for Cuba and amplified a message of international unity against the blockade.
Another high-impact event was organized by members of the Communist Youth of Austria (KJÖ), who took part in the 52nd edition of the European Volunteer Work Brigade and Solidarity with Cuba last July. Its members detailed their experience and called for a renewed effort to involve young people and the Austrian population in general in solidarity efforts with Cuba.
Throughout the festival, attendees were able to purchase materials and objects representative of Cuba and the solidarity movements that were offered at the ÖKG stands, as well as consume drinks and food, the proceeds of which will go towards solidarity efforts with Cuba.
Similarly, Cuban residents, in coordination with maestro Luis Estévez's Ritmo Tropical Project, brought the traditional dances and music of Cuba to life with their participation, as well as drinks and examples of Cuban cocktail culture.
The Volksstimmefest is a festival organized by the Communist Party of Austria (KPÖ) that takes place annually over two days at the Jesuitenwiese in Vienna's Prater. It offers live music, readings, discussions, sports activities, children's programs, and a variety of social, political, and cultural organizations presenting their work. The Volksstimme has become a celebration of the left and a meeting point for the community.
(EmbaCubaAustria)