In a recent interview with Agencia EFE, Mariela Castro, daughter of former Cuban President Raúl Castro and director of Cuba’s National Center for Sexual Education, addressed the case of Brenda Díaz, a transgender woman sentenced to 14 years in prison for participating in anti-government protests in 2021. Castro dismissed the concerns surrounding Díaz’s treatment as “an oversized story full of fantasies.”
International Concern for Brenda Díaz
Brenda Díaz was arrested in Güira de Melena, Artemisa province, on July 11, 2021, during one of the numerous protests against the Cuban government that occurred that day. A Havana court later sentenced her, and Cuba’s highest court upheld the decision. The State Department previously expressed concern for Díaz’s well-being, as she is reportedly being held in a men’s prison without appropriate medical treatment.
Mariela Castro Refutes Claims
Díaz’s mother has claimed that her daughter, who lives with HIV, has access to antiretroviral drugs, but other medications are not always available. She also lamented the “very bad quality” of food in prison. In response, Mariela Castro told Agencia EFE, “Brenda is very well there. She does not know that she is a media figure that has been invented against Cuba.” Castro maintained that Díaz receives “very good food, better than her family has” in prison and has access to sport activities and a library.
Accusations of a Media Show
Mariela Castro further described reports about Díaz and her case as “little gossips” and “a media show by the press and corporate agencies.” She expressed disappointment that the same lies are used to attack Cuba, stating, “It is sad that the same lie to attack Cuba with this story continues to be reproduced.” The situation surrounding Brenda Díaz’s imprisonment and treatment remains a matter of international concern, highlighting the ongoing struggle for transgender rights in Cuba.