A vigil for Laura Pollán in Coral Gables one week after her passing

“If we must give our own lives in pursuit of the freedom of our Cuba that it be what God wants.” (September 24, 2011)

Vigil for Laura Pollán in Coral Gables at Merrick Park on October 21

Last night in Coral Gables on the one week anniversary of her death there was an act of remembrance for Laura Pollán and in solidarity with the Ladies in White who continue the nonviolent struggle for freedom in Cuba. An account of her final days was presented followed by readings of quotes by Laura from different women. Recorded messages from Bertha Soler and Sara Martha Fonseca for the activity were played and the event concluded listening to a past recording of Laura Pollán speaking.

Below are photos and video excerpts taken at the vigil. Along with quotes by Laura.



They tried to silence 75 voices, but now there are more than 75 voices shouting to the world the injustices the government has committed. (2004)

"We fight for the freedom of our husbands, the union of our families. We love our men." (2005)



Physically, I am tired. But I am still fighting, as long as I am alive and my husband is jailed, I am going to keep fighting. – Laura Pollan (2006)


“We are calling for freedom for all political prisoners.” (2006)



"They can either kill us, put us in jail or release them. We will never stop marching no matter what happens." (2010)

"We are going to continue. We are fighting for freedom and human rights.” (September 24, 2011)



"As long as this government is around there will be prisoners because while they've let some go, they've put others in jail. It is a never-ending story." (2011)

"We are not going to stop. If you have imprisoned our sisters thinking that we would give up, they are mistaken. We are very united (...) all the women's movements are very close." (October 2, 2011)




“We ask on this Christmas Day for freedom for our political prisoners and for the Cuban people to have a better future.” (2005)


In the same manner that the vigil concluded with the words of Laura so does this blog entery.