Factsheet on Protests in Cuba and Religious Freedom

Thousands of Cubans took to the streets nationwide on July 11, 2021 to call for greater freedom and relief from the country’s economic and COVID-19 crises. Cuban authorities responded by detaining, often violently, an estimated 700 demonstrators and activists. This factsheet examines how the 11J protests and the resulting crackdown by Cuban authorities has impacted freedom of religion or belief. It also highlights some of the religious leaders and members of religious communities who were detained and now face criminal charges for peaceful protesting. Further, it outlines ways in which the U.S. government has supported Cuban protestors’ calls for greater freedom and opportunities to advance religious freedom on the island.