Guantánamo celebrates Haitian Day and cultural heritage

The province of Guantánamo, Cuba, held events to commemorate Haitian Day, celebrating the cultural legacy and historical contributions of the Haitian community and its descendants.

One session honored Emilio Bárcenas Pier, a revolutionary figure of Haitian descent. Born in the province to immigrants who arrived during World War I, Bárcenas Pier served in the Rebel Army under Raúl Castro and participated in combat in the Sierra Maestra. He was posthumously promoted to lieutenant and awarded the Order of Merit Revolutionary Legión de Honor Frank País.

Other commemorative activities focused on the preservation of Haitian traditions in Guantánamo, including culinary practices, weaving, Creole language, music, and dance. Speakers highlighted the community's influence on local culture and discussed the historical ties between Fidel Castro and the Haitian community, as well as the importance of passing down traditional knowledge and natural medicine practices to younger generations.