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.