Origins and Purpose

Cuba Primero emerged in response to a prolonged national crisis marked by repression, humanitarian collapse, and the systematic restriction of fundamental freedoms in Cuba.

As civic space inside the country narrowed and independent action became criminalized, Cuba Primero was created to:

• Defend human dignity and fundamental rights

• Support peaceful civic engagement

• Provide ethical humanitarian solidarity

• Elevate international awareness through principled advocacy

The movement was founded from exile, but its moral focus remains firmly on the Cuban people.

A Civic Movement — Not a Political Party

Cuba Primero is not:

• A political party

• An armed or militant group

• A foreign-backed organization

• A fundraising or aid agency

It is a citizen-centered civic movement, rooted in conscience, ethics, and non-violence.

Its mission is not to seize power, but to restore rights, promote dignity, and contribute to conditions for peaceful democratic change.

Core Principles

Cuba Primero is guided by clear, non-negotiable principles:

Human Dignity

Every person matters. No political objective justifies hunger, fear, or repression.

Non-Violence

Change must be achieved through peaceful civic means. Violence destroys legitimacy and lives.

Civic Responsibility

Citizenship implies responsibility—to one another, to truth, and to the future.

Pluralism and Inclusion

Cuba belongs to all Cubans, regardless of ideology, belief, or background.

Ethical Consistency

The means must reflect the values of the desired future.

Pillars of Action

Cuba Primero’s work is structured around three interconnected civic pillars:

Humanitarian Support

Peaceful, discreet assistance to families facing extreme shortages of food, medicine, and basic necessities—prioritizing dignity, safety, and protection.

International Advocacy

Engagement with democratic governments, institutions, and civil society to raise awareness of human rights violations and promote accountability through peaceful, lawful means.

Civil Rights & Liberties

Defense of fundamental freedoms—including expression, association, and conscience—while supporting non-violent civic participation and ethical resistance.

Each pillar reinforces the others. Humanitarian action without rights is temporary; advocacy without dignity is hollow.

The Role of Exile and the Diaspora

Cuba Primero recognizes the unique responsibility carried by Cubans in exile.

From outside the country, the diaspora often has access to freedoms denied to those on the island. The movement channels these freedoms toward:

• Visibility and protection for vulnerable citizens

• Ethical international engagement

• Support for peaceful civic values

Exile is not separation—it is continued civic responsibility.

Commitment to Truth and Restraint

Cuba Primero explicitly rejects:

• Violence and armed struggle

• Hate speech or collective blame

• Disinformation or exaggeration

• Political exploitation of suffering

Credibility is essential. The movement’s strength lies in moral clarity, restraint, and respect for human life.

A Vision for Cuba

Cuba Primero envisions a Cuba where:

• Rights are protected by law, not discretion

• Civic participation is encouraged, not punished

• Pluralism is respected

• Disagreements are resolved peacefully

• Human dignity is non-negotiable

This vision is democratic, inclusive, and grounded in universal values.

A Long-Term Civic Commitment

Cuba Primero is not a campaign or a moment—it is a long-term civic commitment.

Its work is guided by patience, responsibility, and the conviction that lasting change must be peaceful, ethical, and led by citizens.

Learn More

For additional information, principles, and public statements, visit the official Cuba Primero website:
cubaprimero.org