To the example of that young Haydee who, before her brother’s torn eyes, said that if he had not spoken, she would not speak either, and she did not speak, alluded the writer and activist Alice Walker, just moments after receiving, this Wednesday, at Casa de las Americas, the Haydee Santamaria Medal, which was awarded to her by Presidential Decree.
“Haydee’s attitude is a reference to move forward in these times,” said the author of The Color Purple, and also confessed to feeling fortunate to have come so many times to Cuba and to see that the nation does not give up. Her people and their dreams will be eternal, “we will go forward and we will triumph,” she said.
Among the reasons put forward to distinguish Walker with this medal -at the proposal of the Cuban Minister of Culture, Alpidio Alonso- were mentioned the permanent claim of the Pulitzer Prize winner for the end of the U.S. blockade of the island; and her work in the links with our people, based on brotherhood and solidarity in the cultural and political spheres.
Likewise, the merits of her literary works were highlighted, in which she has honestly addressed the issues of racial and gender inequality.
Before the delegation of around 70 Americans visiting the country, related to the progressive cultural organization Busboys and Poets, based in Washington, the poet and essayist Nancy Morejon, National Literature Award, highlighted Walker’s indomitable character, and his life dedicated to the struggle for a better world and understanding among peoples.
On the occasion, she also praised Walker’s influence on Cuban writers through his literature and his civil commitment; and his long years of dedication to the Palestinian cause.
“Alice is at home, the home of all”, said Nancy, who added that this was not just a simple meeting, because both peoples are a family, and that is precisely the concretion of the Casa’s cultural project.
The visitors received a wide explanation of the programs and lines of the institution, through some of its professionals and collaborators; among them, Luisa Campuzano, Zuleica Romay and Víctor Fowler. The Minister of Culture and Abel Prieto, president of Casa de las Americas, were in the auditorium.
Fidel’s legacy, literacy and the cultural battle, and the relationship with Puerto Rico, transcended in the dialogue, in which members of the delegation asked how they could help break down barriers.
Jaime Gomez, vice president of that cultural center, urged them to consider themselves part of the Casa’s endeavors, for as Haydee said, the real workers there are the artists of the continent