Unity and the legacy of a revolutionary concept: Cuba rises for May Day

General Raúl Castro Ruz and President Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez join in the May Day celebrations -- Images via the PCC

By Lissel Pino, Communist Party of Cuba, translated from the Spanish

Every year, May Day fills the streets of Cuba with red, white, and blue. International Workers' Day not only celebrates workers' achievements but also becomes a human river of hope and commitment. Flags wave in the wind, slogans resonate in thousands of voices, and the energy of the Cuban people fills every corner of José Martí Revolution Square. This day is a tribute to resistance, the spirit of struggle, and the power of unity.

With Army General Raúl Castro Ruz and President Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez in attendance, Cuban workers, students, and families joined together for an unforgettable day to celebrate this anniversary.

Twenty-five years ago, in 2000, this same setting witnessed an historic moment. Fidel Castro Ruz, the undisputed leader of the Cuban Revolution, proclaimed the concept of Revolution to the people. In the midst of an era marked by challenges such as the battle for the return of Elián González and the beginning of the Battle of Ideas, Fidel defined Revolution as "a sense of the historic moment; it is changing everything that must be changed; it is full equality and freedom; it is being treated and treating others as human beings."

These words transcended time, shaping entire generations. In them, Fidel encapsulated not only the essence of the Cuban Revolution but also a guide for social transformation anywhere in the world. Each phrase resonates powerfully, reminding us of the sacrifice, perseverance, and unwavering commitment of a people fighting for their values.

Today, looking back, the impact of these words remains alive. The resistance to the economic blockade, the social achievements in health and education, and international solidarity are testaments to how the Cuban people have embraced these ideals. Every worker, peasant, and student who marches on May Day embodies the spirit of this revolutionary concept.

The parade is not just an event, but a living expression of struggle and hope. It is a reminder that the Revolution is not a thing of the past, but a process under constant construction. Through unity and commitment, the Cuban people continue to move forward, changing what must be changed and defending their values ​​at any cost.

Today, 25 years later, Fidel's words invite us to reflect and renew our commitment to that concept of Revolution. Because, as he said, "Revolution is unity, it is independence, it is fighting for our dreams of justice for Cuba and the world." Thus, May Day remains a song of hope, an affirmation of life, and a promise for the future.

See also: Fidel's Concept of Revolution

This work was translated and shared via a License CC-BY-NC