Cuban Institute of Music Rejects Discriminatory Act at FAC, Applies Measures, and Denounces Counterrevolutionary Manipulation

The Cuban Institute of Music has addressed a recent incident involving the discriminatory application of the “right of admission” at the Fábrica de Arte Cubano (FAC) cultural venue. The incident, which prevented a young Cuban man and his companions from entering the facility, has sparked widespread rejection from anti-racist activists, public officials at various levels, the National Commission of the Program Against Racism, and numerous citizens who expressed their indignation on social media.

Upon learning of the Facebook publication by user Yuliet Teresa, the management of FAC and the National Center of Popular Music engaged in discussions with her and the aggrieved party, Alejandro Bridón Mesa. In both instances, the institution acknowledged its responsibility for the mishandling of the admission policy.

On the morning of December 31, the affected young man, Alejandro Bridón, was visited at his home by Víctor Rodríguez, Director of the National Center of Popular Music, and Osmani López, Vice President of the Cuban Institute of Music. They reiterated the institution's zero-tolerance position toward any act of discrimination and mistreatment, explaining that this was not an institutional stance of racism but an arbitrary act based on the personal judgment of an employee. They also notified him of the disciplinary measure applied to the implicated worker. Mr. Bridón expressed satisfaction with the explanation.

Senior officials from the Ministry of Culture also contacted Alejandro, who thanked them for the dialogue and emphasized his desire to raise awareness about the seriousness of such events, which should not occur in any public service institution. He further stated he had no interest in promoting the formal complaint procedure outlined in approved protocols for such cases, which reaffirm the Revolution's commitment and its laws to combat all forms of discrimination. The Cuban Institute of Music has investigated the events in accordance with these protocols and will forward the information to the competent authorities for full clarification.

The Cuban Institute of Music flatly rejects the attitude of the FAC worker involved in the incident and that of any other employee, administrator, or manager who engages in similar behavior.

Simultaneously, we reject the unacceptable, tepid, and justificatory arguments expressed by a member of the FAC team. Our revolutionary people have repeatedly demonstrated integrity, optimism, and solidarity, which should not be manipulated to minimize an unforgivable error.

Alongside the legitimate outrage provoked by the event, we denounce the manipulation by counterrevolutionary elements and their allies, who have attempted to use this incident to discredit institutions, sow division, and induce acts against public order.

The Revolution and its institutions are and will always be at the service of the people and will not allow such events to go unpunished. Their profound commitment to equality and social justice is unshakable.