Young Communists
hit the streets
Luis Raúl
Vázquez Muñoz
The Young Communists Union (UJC) in
Ciego de Ávila has initiated a cultural project
entitled Soy Cuba, in response to the concerns of
Cuban youth about the need for more recreational
options, above all in communities located far from
cultural centers and services.

Maykel Pérez Valdés, member of the
UJC Provincial Bureau reported that this effort is
being discussed during the organization’s evaluation
process, consisting of UJC assemblies and Necessary
Connections committees - spaces of debate between
members and non-affiliated young people.
A key issue emerging in these
encounters, being held through December, is the need
to increase and organize recreational spaces. Strong
discussion regarding employment is also taking
place, he stated.
Another important demand is that the
UJC transform its work methods and styles, in
addition to identifying more spaces in which to
establish closer connections with young people and
adolescents who are not in school or working.
For these reasons the cultural
project Soy Cuba was launched, supported by the José
Martí Art Instructors Brigade, members of the
Hermanos Saíz Association, the Federation of
High School Students (FEEM) and Federation of
University Students (FEU), together with the
cultural project Havana Team Cuba, led by musician
Yankiel DJ. Soy Cuba’s first presentation took place
in the Roberto Rivas Fraga People’s Council, in the
southern zone of the city of Ciego de Ávila.
"The aim of this cultural movement
is to send the UJC out into the streets," stated
Maikel, to get closer to neighborhoods and
communities, which are part of young peoples’ lives.
(Juventud Rebelde)