Artists and intellectuals honored in Sancti Spíritus through a forum for dialogue

“Decenios”an initiative by the Sancti Spíritus Provincial Committee of the National Union of Writers and Artists of Cuba (UNEAC) emerged as a genuine necessity. One does not celebrate a 65th anniversary every year, especially when the occasion brings together so many prominent figures, ideas, and artistic sensibilities against a backdrop that has rarely offered respite from the country’s many challenges. Thus, there was an urgent need for a forum dedicated to dialogue and recognition.

“And while there are points of overlap between this and other cultural events, it is something distinct,” asserts Juan Eduardo Bernal Echemendía—known as “Juanelo”—the first vice-president of the organization’s Sancti Spíritus chapter. “Above all, it seeks to reaffirm the institution’s national importance through conversations involving UNEAC’s founders and those who have carried on their legacy.”

The inaugural gathering took place in March. Six poets, representing diverse generations and artistic voices, came together in the main hall of the UNEAC Provincial Committee headquarters in Sancti Spíritus. The audience discovered—or rediscovered—their work, as well as pieces by other writers selected by the guest poets.

By the end of the event, those in attendance took home a printed text from each of the participating Sancti Spíritus authors. Attendees described the experience as exceptional. For the organizers, it was enough to confirm that the initiative was both necessary and worthwhile.