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Cuban writers and artists
organization declares Comandante Juan Almeida a
member of honor, posthumously
Pedro de la Hoz
The
Union of Cuban Writers and Artists (UNEAC), on
September 16, declared Comandante Juan Almeida an
honorary member of the organization, five years
after his death.
The
posthumous distinction was announced by UNEAC
President Miguel Barnet, during a tribute to Almeida
who, in addition to playing a key role in the
leadership of the Cuban Revolution, found time to
compose songs and write.
Barnet recalled that Almeida was committed to Cuban
cultural values, and emphasized his extraordinary
contribution and understanding that socialism is
essentially a human, poetic project which must
struggle for the happiness of all.
His
comrade in arms and fellow composer, Roberto Valdés,
recounted several of their shared experiences; and
musicologist Alicia Valdés described the richness of
his compositions; while diplomat and writer Oscar
Oramas focused on the principled and open nature of
Almeida’s personality, and his commitment to Cuban
cultural values.
Also
in attendance at the gala tribute were Ulises
Rosales del Toro, a Council of Ministers vice
president; and a number of distinguished
revolutionary leaders who collaborated with Almeida,
including Armando Hart, Jorge Risquet, Víctor Dreke
and Teté Puebla; as well as his younger sister
Charito Almeida who recited some of his writings.
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