Torchlight march for Martí and Cuba

Raquel Marrero Yanes and Yohan Rodríguez Blanco

THIS Friday, thousands of torches will illuminate Havana’s streets in honor of José Martí, Cuba’s national hero, on the eve of the 159th anniversary of his birth.

At the Martí Forge, where organizational details are being discussed, Carlos Rangel Irola, national president of the Federation of University Students (FEU) explained that the torches carried by students symbolize this generation’s commitment to the achievements of the Revolution and the backing of Cuban youth for the National Conference of the Communist Party, which begins this Saturday, January 28.

Osnay Miguel Colina, member of the National Bureau of Union of Communist Youth (UJC), called on all those who feel themselves part of Martí’s legacy to take part in the march with homemade torches and in support of the present and future continuity of the homeland.

"It will be a tribute to Martí, to Cuban patriots, to the historic leadership of the Revolution and the five Cuban heroes," he affirmed.

The traditional Marcha de las Antorchas (Torchlight March), comprising the people, members of the Federation of Students in Intermediate Education, UJC and Communist Party leaders headed by the FEU, begins 9:00pm Friday at Havana University’s stairway and goes to the Martí Forge. This year, it will only take place in the capital.