Lessons of Authoritarianism and Democratic Resilience in Latin America: Cuba's Digital Revolution: Between Quiescence and Revolt

A new digital revolution is underway in Cuba. Despite the continued repression of freedoms of speech and assembly, a new generation of Cubans have used digital technologies and social media to fundamentally transform how citizens debate, inform and challenge the authoritarian status quo on the island. From animal rights activists to domestic violence awareness campaigns, to the thousands that took to the streets in cities throughout the island in July 2021, these activities have been organized and documented primarily through new independent digital means. Many young people, intellectuals and artists have developed a whole sector of unique digital spaces for national debate and dialogue to advocate for a more inclusive Cuba. Join us for a dialogue with Dr. Michaelanne Thomas (UMSI) and Harold Cárdenas Lema, co-founder and former director of one of the foremost digital spaces for Cubans by Cubans on the island, La Joven Cuba.

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Email: -- lacs.office@umich.edu