Cuban President Mourns Passing of Celebrated Poet Tomasita Quiala

Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez expressed his sorrow today over the death of renowned décima improvisational poet Juana Tomasita Quiala Rojas, who passed away in Havana at the age of 64.

"Deeply saddened by the news of the passing of our beloved Tomasita Quiala, a true Cuban through and through who always moved us with her décimas and profound patriotic love," the president wrote on his official X account.

Born in Banes, Holguín, Quiala was a trailblazing figure in Cuban oral poetry. With her distinctive style, charismatic delivery, and powerful stage presence, she broke gender barriers in décima improvisada, a tradition historically dominated by men.

The head of state extended condolences to the late artist's family, friends, and fellow cultural workers, honoring her legacy as "a Cuban in the truest sense." Quiala was also a writer and cultural promoter who left an indelible mark on the island's folk traditions.