The inauguration of the plastic works exposition of artists that support the defense of human rights initially scheduled for February 17 has been postponed to April 1, 2017. It has not been easy for the Foundation for Human Rights in Cuba to take this decision, when we have already received Dozens of works. But it obeys an ethical stance: the need to be consistent with the purpose of this project.
The reason for this change, responds to the very essence of the theme of the exhibition: to defend human rights and in this case, those of graffiti artist Danilo Maldonado (El Sexto).
When Danilo was imprisoned at the end of November in a violent and arbitrary manner, we put on hold opening the exhibition until his situation was clarified. The Sixth symbolizes with his art, performances and civic attitude, the essence of the artist in favor of human rights that underlines our initiative. As such, it is especially important for us to be able to count on his presence and participation in this event.
After being transported across different prisons, the Cuban government decided to release him this month of January, informing him that there were no charges and he could travel abroad. But the totalitarian authorities lied and blocked Danilo’s departure from Cuba in the same arbitrary way in which they locked him in their dungeons.
The Foundation for Human Rights in Cuba demands that his freedom of movement must be unconditionally respected and he should be allowed to leave the country and come to our exhibition.
The activity will take place on the new dates (April 1 to 10) at the same site, at the Miami Hispanic Cultural Arts Center (111 Southwest 5th Avenue, Miami, FL 33130).
Dr. Juan Antonio Blanco
Executive Director
Foundation for Human Rights in Cuba