Events held to commemorate legacy, ideas of former leader

HAVANA - Cubans on Sunday commemorated the 91st birthday of their former president Fidel Castro by remembering his legacy of major social and economic changes.

Above the streets of the Cuban capital were billboards with the images of Castro while state institutions and private companies have also posted photos of the former leader.

For some Cubans, the date has a sad connotation because Castro is no longer alive, but many others view the day as a special time to commemorate his ideas and legacy.

"Fidel left us a legacy in terms of his revolutionary ideas. He always had in mind that ideas were very strong to sow a good future for our country," said university student Adria Amaro.

"Although we no longer have Fidel present among us, the most important thing is that his ideas last and his struggle was not in vain because today millions of people continue the revolution he started," she added.

It was on the same day in 2016 that Castro was last seen in public to celebrate his 90th birthday with more than 5,000 people and the famous children's theater group La Colmenita.

On Nov 25, Cuba's longtime revolution leader died, plunging the country's people into mourning.

"For us, Fidel did not die, his ideas are alive. We will continue to remember him every year and he is the greatest revolutionary of all time," said Luis Varona, a state worker.

Dedicated

For Cubans, Castro is seen as someone who dedicated his life to working for the people and spreading the idea of solidarity around the world.

"We must remember Fidel as a leader, someone who did a lot for the Cuban people and worked to make this country a better place," said Yaniel Hudson, a young worker.

Others highlighted Castro's distinctive personality and his impact on world politics in a period of time marked by the Cold War and tensions with the United States.

"He built Cuba into a model of solidarity, social justice and international cooperation," Sofia Rodriguez said.

Castro and his socialist revolution brought back the sense of national dignity, sovereignty and independence to a nation that was considered a US protectorate before 1959.

"Fidel made Cubans feel proud of their country and always fought to preserve our independence from any foreign interference or meddling," said worker Vicente Palacios.

"Regardless of any homage or celebration, I think the best way to remember him is to fulfill his concept of revolution and make the country continue to thrive," said Daniela Estrain, a 19-year-old college student.

Concerts, photo exhibitions, sports and cultural activities were held over the past week throughout the country to remember the late Cuban leader.

Since December, about 500,000 people have visited the Santa Ifigenia cemetery in the eastern province of Santiago de Cuba, where Castro's remains rest.

Born on Aug 13, 1926, Castro led the revolution that overthrew dictator Fulgencio Batista in 1959. He built a socialist model that marked the history of the 20th century in Latin America and other developing countries.

Xinhua