Under the golden warmth of Havana’s January sun, I began a day that would forever reshape how I see history, advocacy, and the power of human connection.
I started my day with a glass of fresh guava juice and a healthy, organic breakfast, made with love and care. The sun was shining brightly on January 7th, casting a warm glow on the streets of Havana, and I couldn’t help but feel a sense of excitement for the day ahead. Little did I know how deeply the day’s experiences would stay with me. Our agenda was packed: a morning visit to Fidel Castro’s Museum followed by an afternoon at CENESEX, the Cuban National Center for Sex Education. The day promised to be as thought-provoking as it was inspiring, and it didn’t disappoint.
History Comes Alive at Fidel Castro’s Museum
After breakfast, the first stop of the day took us into the heart of Cuba’s revolutionary history. Fidel Castro’s museum isn’t just a building, it’s a portal into the life and legacy of a man who profoundly shaped modern Cuba.
The museum, set against the backdrop of lush greenery, immediately felt steeped in significance. Walking through the exhibits, I was struck by the sheer weight of history surrounding me. One exhibit that caught my eye was a collection of Castro’s medals, carefully displayed under glass. Each medal seemed to carry its own story, a testament to the moments that defined his leadership.
Then there was his typewriter, old, simple, and unassuming yet it felt monumental. This was the very machine he used to draft letters and speeches that would shape the course of a nation. Nearby were letters he had written as recently as 2007, offering a glimpse into his later reflections. Reading his words, I couldn’t help but feel a quiet connection, as if history wasn’t something distant but rather something alive and breathing.
What truly took my breath away was a digital mural that continuously shifted between the faces of Jose Marti and Fidel Castro. Watching the transformation, I thought about the bridge between these two revolutionary figures and how their ideals have transcended time. In another corner stood a sculpture of Fidel Castro, one he never intended to be displayed publicly. Above it, a photograph of him sitting beside the sculpture added a personal touch to the space. It felt as if he were still there, quietly observing the visitors, his presence lingering in every corner.
Lunch at Mikos Restaurant: A Taste of Authenticity
After immersing ourselves in history, we headed to a charming, authentic restaurant in Havana for lunch. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the food reflected the richness of Cuban culture. We started with pineapple and ham empanadas, a delightful mix of sweet and savory flavors that felt tropical.
For the main course, I indulged in a feast of traditional Cuban dishes. My plate was loaded with tostones (fried plantains), Ropa Vieja (a savory, shredded beef stew), Arroz Congrí (Cuban black beans and rice), and a vibrant assortment of fresh vegetables, including lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumber. The meal was a sensory experience, a perfect blend of textures, colors, and flavors that left me feeling satisfied and energized for the rest of the day. It was a reminder of how food, like history, can tell a story and bring people together.
Advocacy and Empowerment at CENESEX
After lunch, the afternoon brought us to CENESEX, the Cuban National Center for Sex Education, founded in 1988. Its origins are rooted in the earlier work of institutions like the Cuban Women’s Federation, founded by Fidel Castro’s wife, Vilma Espín, a chemical engineer and feminist. CENESEX is now the most important organization in Cuba addressing sexual health and human rights. The center’s history reflects a journey of social and cultural change.
In the 1970s, the legalization of abortion revealed a high death rate, 120 per 1,000, which underscored the urgent need for education on sexual and reproductive health. This paved the way for comprehensive standards addressing the well-being of both women and the general population. One of the most groundbreaking achievements highlighted during our visit was the publication of a German author’s book, Women and Men in Intimate Relationships. This text marked a milestone in Cuban society, as it established that homosexuality is not a disease.
CENESEX has always been a pioneer in advocacy. It facilitated Cuba’s first sexual reassignment surgery in 1984, a groundbreaking move that faced intense public backlash, halting such procedures for 20 years. This reaction underscored the necessity of a dedicated institution. Today, CENESEX provides legal support for those facing discrimination, promotes sexual education, and collaborates with parents, schools, and communities to combat violence. The center also advises on policies, including the Children and Youth Act, and has been pivotal in addressing health challenges like TB, AIDS, and malaria with international aid.
The day drew connections between history and progress. Fidel Castro’s museum showcased the ideals that shaped modern Cuba, while CENESEX demonstrated how these values have evolved into a vision for equality and inclusion.
January 7th wasn’t just another day, it was a day of learning, reflection, and gratitude. Cuba’s resilience and forward-thinking spirit left a lasting impression on me.