Cuban authorities detain artist Tania Bruguera in Havana amid protest plans
Early Tuesday morning, Cuban police took artist and activist Tania Bruguera into custody at her residence in Havana, holding her for ten hours before her release. This move is seen as an intimidation tactic following the recent shooting death of black Cuban Hansel Ernesto Hernández Galiano. Authorities claimed it was due to pandemic regulations, but Bruguera insists she adhered to COVID-19 guidelines. She had shared on Facebook about a young woman who died after being detained while heading to a peaceful protest and voiced support for imprisoned scientist Ariel Ruiz Urquiola, who is scheduled to speak at the UN on July 2. Julie Trébault from PEN America denounced the arrest and called for her release.
Key facts
- Tania Bruguera was arrested at her Havana home by Cuban authorities
- She was detained for ten hours before being released early Tuesday morning
- Bruguera was planning to speak at a protest against police violence following the death of Hansel Ernesto Hernández Galiano
- Authorities cited pandemic regulations for the arrest, which Bruguera disputes
- She has been arrested multiple times before, including in 2015 and 2014
- Cuba's Decree 349 (2018) imposes strict state control over artistic services
- Julie Trébault of PEN America condemned the arrest as part of Cuba's cultural suppression
- Bruguera expressed solidarity with imprisoned activist Ariel Ruiz Urquiola ahead of his UN address on July 2
Entities
Artists
- Tania Bruguera
- Hannah Arendt
Institutions
- Cuban government
- Havana Biennial
- United Nations
- Artists at Risk Connection
- PEN America
Locations
- Havana
- Cuba
- Revolution Square