José Daniel Ferrer

Jos%C3%A9 Daniel Ferrer en Santiago de Cuba

José Daniel Ferrer García (born July 29, 1970) is a prominent Cuban dissident and human rights activist. He is best known for his leadership role in the Patriotic Union of Cuba (UNPACU), an organization that advocates for democratic reforms and human rights in Cuba.

Early Life and Background

José Daniel Ferrer was born in Santiago de Cuba, a city in the southeastern part of the island. He grew up in a period marked by the Cuban Revolution and the subsequent establishment of a communist state under Fidel Castro. Ferrer's early experiences in this political environment shaped his views and later activism.

Activism and Imprisonment

Ferrer became involved in dissident activities in the 1990s, joining the Christian Liberation Movement (MCL), an organization founded by Oswaldo Payá that sought peaceful democratic change in Cuba. His activism led to his arrest during the Black Spring crackdown in 2003, a government operation that targeted 75 dissidents, journalists, and human rights activists.

Ferrer was sentenced to 25 years in prison but was released in 2011 as part of a deal brokered by the Catholic Church and the Spanish government. Upon his release, he continued his activism and founded the Patriotic Union of Cuba (UNPACU).

Patriotic Union of Cuba (UNPACU)

The Patriotic Union of Cuba (UNPACU) is one of the largest and most active opposition groups in Cuba. It focuses on non-violent resistance and civil disobedience to promote democratic reforms and human rights. Under Ferrer's leadership, UNPACU has organized numerous protests, disseminated information about human rights abuses, and provided support to political prisoners and their families.

Recent Arrests and International Attention

Ferrer has been arrested multiple times since his release in 2011. His most recent arrest in October 2019 drew significant international attention and condemnation from various human rights organizations and foreign governments. Ferrer was accused of assault, but his supporters argue that the charges were politically motivated to silence his activism.

Personal Life

José Daniel Ferrer is married and has children. Despite the risks associated with his activism, he remains committed to advocating for democratic change in Cuba.

See Also

• Cuban dissident movement
• Human rights in Cuba
• Oswaldo Payá
• Black Spring (Cuba)
• Patriotic Union of Cuba