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By Nelson Rodríguez Chartrand

On Sunday, May 7, 2017, a milestone was set in Cuban history, as well as for lovers and defenders of freedom worldwide: the Cuban Libertarian Party “José Martí” was founded.

The event was held at the headquarters of the Libertarian Library “Benjamin Franklin”. The space will be shared with the new political organization, located in Cisneros Betancourt 1294, between 3rd street and Linderos, Los Pinos, in the capital city of Arroyo Naranjo.

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This organization is an extension of the objectives that were first proposed by the Cuban Anarchocapitalist Club and, later, the Mises Cuba Institute. The Libertarian Library “Benjamin Franklin”, founded last December 24, will be the source of the philosophy it defends.

After reading the Agreement of Constitution of the Party, those present received an official request of affiliation to the organization.

The new party will have, among others, the supreme purpose of defending freedom, human and civil rights of the people, promoting and proposing the reduction of the prevailing collectivism in society and the excessive paternalism of the public administrations, affirming and strengthening individual sovereignty in all areas of life, minimizing the volume and interference of the state and supporting the establishment of a spontaneous social and economic order.

In addition, the Cuban Libertarian Party will seek to reduce government interference in culture, education, solidarity and ethical issues, as well as establish a legal system emanating from the free will of the citizens that effectively guarantees the aforementioned goals.

“It is curious and interesting that the activity was carried out without an overshadow, at least perceivable of State Security agents”, commented one of the participants, since until now several members have been arrested (one was even burned with a cigarette in prison) and threatened.

A few days ago, state security agents went to the headquarters of the library, now shared with the brand new Cuban Libertarian Party – José Martí and took a member forcefully in order to induce fear. He was told that the project will last until the regime allows it.

But we will not be overcome by fear. As the Greek saying goes: “‘Society grows great when old men plant trees whose shade they know they shall never sit in.” We do not fear reprisals about our bodies, because our ideas will transcend and I will get freedom. We do not dear any attacks against our bodies, because our ideas will trascend and achieve freedom.

Nelson Rodríguez Chartrand is a lecturer, co-founder of the Libertarian Library Benjamin Franklin, and a lawyer graduated but not allowed to practice by the regime in Cuba.