July 11th: A look back at the Cuban protests

On July 11th, 2021 — more than six decades after the Cuban revolution — the island exploded in protest. Tens of thousands took to the streets to voice their discontent with a lack of freedom and food, as well as the regime’s weak response to the pandemic.

Their explosive words rippled all the way to Miami, where a video that had inspired them was authored and thousands more protesters to hit the streets.

In videos, photographs and stories, the Caplin News reported on the movement. The stories included not just the dramatic initial report above, but:

1. 1. A story on a photographer whose work inspired the protests.
3. 2. A story on the filmmaker whose music video provided the movement’s theme song.
5. 3. Even a story on a painting inspired by the protests that sold for $250,000.

As protesters face trial this month, these stories provide important perspective.

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Helen Acevedo

Helen Acevedo is an FIU student majoring in broadcast media with a minor in political science and international relations. She is passionate about giving people a platform to tell their truths.

Claudia Morales

Claudia Morales is a junior FIU student pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Digital Communications/Broadcasting. She obtained an associates degree in Mass Communications/Journalism from Miami Dade College. She served as a photographer for The Reporter, the student newspaper at Miami Dade College. She also studied abroad in France and Italy, where she acquired knowledge about globalized media.