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Cuban Voices oral history collection, 2004-2010 6740 pages 466 digital audio files (Sound recordings)
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The Cuban Voices oral history collection is comprised of interviews conducted for the project of the same name. The project resulted in the publication of Elizabeth Dore's book How Things Fall Apart. The interviews are intended to engage in conversations with Cubans who lived through the transition to communist rule after the Cuban Revolution and experienced events of the following decades. The goal of the project, led by Dore, was not to interview people who have established themselves as public or political figures after the Revolution, but rather to generate a dialogue with ordinary citizens whose narratives do not appear in conventional narratives. Most of the interviewees, then, are not prominent personalities. They are professionals, campesinxs, teachers, sex workers, state employees, cooks, messengers, and people working illegally, among others.
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Oral history interview with Alfonso, 2005
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Alfonso begins the interview by describing his family. He then recalls his life as a student. He also recalls the period when he contracted hepatitis. Alfonso comments on his first approach to the Church and his family's link to religion. Alfonso describes his seminary studies to become a pastor and the times when he had to leave because of his unstable health. Alfonso reflects on the persecution of religious movements during the Revolution and on the Cuban press. Finally, Alfonso discusses the role of youth in the continuity of the Revolution and the link that young people establish with the United States.
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Oral history interview with Alicia, 2005
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In the first session, Alicia discusses her birth and the death of her father. Alicia comments on her passage through different levels of education and discusses public schools in the pre-revolutionary period. Finally, she discusses the practices she carried out as a social worker in impoverished neighborhoods.
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Oral history interview with Alina, 2008
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In the first session, Alina recalls her childhood in San Miguel del Padrón, a settlement in Havana. She also recalls the bond she had with her cousin, the Elián González episode, and her time at the Lenín Institute. Alina describes how she entered the Instituto Superior de Arte. She recalls her fondness for art from a very young age. Alina describes her life at the Instituto Superior de Arte and discusses the lack of economic resources to produce films.
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Oral history interview with Alma, 2004
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In the interview, Alma begins by discussing her family and child labor. Alma recalls the changes in her political outlook with the arrival of the Revolution and the family rifts that followed. Alma reflects on what she dreamed for the Revolution and what ended up happening. She also reflects on machismo in Cuba. Alma discusses the role of healers on the island. Finally, Alma discusses her relationship with the father of her children
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Oral history interview with Andrea, 2005
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Andrea begins the first session by talking about her father's murder and her early life. She then recalls her communion and fascination with the Three Magi. She also recalls her education and training at the Alliance Française.
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Oral history interview with Angela and Elsa, 2005
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In the first session, Angela and Elsa talk about their upbringing in Cruces. Both recall the time when their sister won a scholarship awarded by the radio station to study in the United States. Then, the two reflect on the problems of working in the sugar cane harvest in a sugar-producing town and the "down times", that is, the times when there was no sugar cane to harvest.
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Oral history interview with Antonio, 2005
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In the interview, Antonio talks about his work as a musician, the difficulties in acquiring instruments and his bond with music. Antonio recalls the Special Period and the departure of his friends from the country. He also recalls his bond with foreign women, who gave him the opportunity to go into exile. Antonio and the interviewer talk about food. Finally, Antonio comments on his customs as a practitioner of Santeria
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Oral history interview with Armando, 2006
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At the beginning of the interview, Armando talks about his bad relationship with his stepfather. Then, Armando recalls that his grandmother, exiled in Miami, bought a family home. This purchase led to his mother's prosecution and imprisonment. Armando recalls his military service and subsequent incarceration. Armando describes his second stay in prison, the unsanitary conditions in which the prisoners lived, the torture, the hunger strikes, and the work he did in prison. He then discusses the prohibition of movement in certain areas of Havana, such as the beaches and tourist sites. Armando describes political corruption and its relation to communism. Armando discusses drug trafficking in Cuba. He also discusses his father's exile, police and neighborhood control, and his family's migrations. Armando discusses racism on the island. Finally, Armando discusses alcohol consumption among Cuban people
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Oral history interview with Arnaldo, 2006
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Arnaldo begins the interview discussing his birth. Then, he tells some anecdotes from his childhood. Arnaldo recalls the military service and his jobs. He also recalls his joining the Young Communist League and his later expulsion from the Communist Party
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Oral history interview with Arturo, 2005
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In the interview, Arturo remembers his childhood and reflects on his father's abandonment. Then, he recalls his move to Havana and recounts anecdotes related to the racism he experienced as a Black man in the years before the Revolution. He considers that racism continues, but in a more underhanded way: he is in a relationship with a white woman, which led to a conflict with her children. Arturo discusses his mother's religion, Santeria, and the growth of new religions on the island. He recalls his first sexual relations and discusses prostitution while reflecting on the changes in relationships between men and women
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Oral history interview with Bebo, 2005
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Bebo begins the interview by remembering his childhood and the death of his father. Then, he recounts the consequences that the hurricane produced in his life, such as the loss of his house. Bebo discusses his first work experiences and his approach to unionism. He remembers the advent of the Revolution, the hopeful feeling that was lived in Cuba, and his first steps as a militiaman. He also remembers his participation in the 62-Kilometer Walk. Bebo recounts how he met his wife while discussing the religious differences that separated them. He remembers his first jobs for the Communist Party. He discusses the difficulties experienced in the tobacco plantations at the beginning of the Revolution. He also remembers almost being kicked out of the Communist Party because of his criticism of corruption. Bebo reflects on racism and homosexuality within the Communist Party. Then, he reminisces about his life during the Special Period. He ends the interview by talking about his children's work in the Ministry of the Interior (MININT) and his health problems
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Oral history interview with Belinda, 2005
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In the first session, Belinda recalls her upbringing away from her parents. She then discusses her studies and describes her vocal cord problems that prevented her from teaching. Belinda talks about the UNICEF-sponsored Casa del Niño y de la Niña: her son attends painting classes there. Belinda describes the trauma her son experienced when he witnessed a fire. She also discusses her son's problems with violence. Belinda recalls her uncles' militancy and explains how the Bonos del 26, also known as Billetes de la Revolución, work.
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Oral history interview with Belkis, 2005
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In the first session, Belkis narrates the history of her family and discusses her relationship with her aunts, the birth of her son, and her relationship with her ex-husband. She also discusses her education. Belkis discusses her first jobs.
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Oral history interview with Bosch, 2005
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In the first session, Bosch recalls his first years on the Isle of Pines and his time at the bilingual school.
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Oral history interview with Caridad, 2006
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In the interview, Caridad begins by talking about her family, her mother's upbringing and obtaining family housing from the State. Caridad recalls the Novoa Plan. She also recalls her first jobs and comments on anecdotes from her prison work. Caridad discusses the role of trade unions. Then, she recalls the Mariel Exodus and the humiliations towards people whose families had decided to go into exile. Caridad recalls the crisis at the Peruvian Embassy in Havana in 1980. She also discusses Fidel Castro's illness. Caridad reflects on the relationship between youth and the Revolution. Finally, Caridad discusses racism and the underrepresentation of non-white people in mass media
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Oral history interview with Carlos, 2005
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Carlos begins the first session by talking about his family, his father's abandonment, and his mother and aunts' prostitution. Carlos recalls the decision to move in with his aunt. He discusses the family problems he had after his aunt's death, the corruption in the housing system, and the housing conflicts he had with his cousin. Carlos recalls his fondness for studying. He also recalls his stay in the Soviet Union and the depression he fell into when he abandoned his studies to return to Cuba.
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Oral history interview with Carmen, 2005
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In the first session, Carmen recalls the early years of her life and raising her sisters after their parents died. She also recalls the decorations she received for her good performance in the textile factories and the trips to the Soviet Union, Czechoslovakia, and Germany. Carmen recalls her first marriage and the birth of her children. Finally, Carmen recounts the attack on one of her sons in a discotheque.
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Oral history interview with Celia, 2008
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At the beginning of the interview, Celia recalls when her husband had cancer. She then recalls her first jobs and the birth of her children. Celia discusses the functioning of agricultural cooperatives and the Basic Unit of Cooperative Production (UBPC). Celia recalls the emigration of one of her daughters to the United States. She also discusses her husband's lack of participation in household chores. Celia recalls the 1970 harvest and reflects on Raúl Castro's government
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Oral history interview with Claudia, 2005
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In the interview, Claudia discusses censorship and political persecution in Cuba. She also discusses the government spying on certain citizens. Claudia discusses corruption and Mariela Castro's role in the government. She then discusses clandestine jobs. The archives only has the notes taken by Elizabeth Dore when conducting this interview
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Oral history interview with Danny, 2008
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Danny begins the interview by discussing his family and his education. He then recalls his first jobs. Danny discusses the 1970 harvest, harvest problems, and the lack of agricultural technology in Cuba. Danny recalls the creation of the agricultural cooperatives, the Mariel Exodus, and the Special Period. He also discusses the economic blockade and the link with the Soviet Union. Danny discusses the closing of industries
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Oral history interview with Dulce, 2008
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Dulce begins the first session by discussing her birth, her studies, her first jobs, and the birth of her children. She then discusses racism during her childhood. Dulce discusses the role of the union. She also recalls the Mariel Exodus and the emigration of some of her family members. Dulce discusses psychiatric care in Cuban hospitals, the lack of medication, and the state of the prisons. Dulce discusses Fidel Castro's role in the Cuban government.
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Oral history interview with Elisa, 2005
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In the first session, Elisa gives a brief summary of her life. Then, she recalls her first jobs as a teacher. She also recalls the Escambray Rebellion and the Bay of Pigs Invasion. Elisa discusses the problems of the Cuban educational system during the Special Period. She discusses her work at the Casa del Niño y de la Niña. Finally, Elisa recounts the activities at the workshop for retired women and discusses her connection to garment making.
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Oral history interview with Elisa, 2008
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In the interview, Elisa comments on her father's departure to the United States. She then recalls her work as a child model and her piano studies. She also recalls her time at the Escuela al Campo. Elisa comments on her stay in Yarey with her husband while they were doing social services. Elisa recalls her life during the Special Period, the depression she suffered after the birth of her second daughter, and her departure to the United States for psychiatric treatment. She recalls her husband's work as a musician in different parts of the world and the subsequent separation. Elisa describes the treatment she received for breast cancer. Elisa discusses the incorporation of women into the labor market and the division of household chores. She then discusses Raul Castro's governmental administration
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Oral history interview with Eloy, 2008
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Eloy begins the interview by talking about his life in the countryside. He then recalls the arrival of the Revolution, the Agrarian Reform, and the 1970 harvest. Eloy describes the activities of the union. He also discusses racism in Granma
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Oral history interview with Ernesto, 2005
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Ernesto begins the interview by recalling his life after the death of his parents, his incorporation into military service and his work as a delegate. Ernesto discusses his youth while discussing his early sexual experiences and the scant sexual education he received. Ernesto talks about racism and religious discrimination on the island. He also talks about machismo in his marriage and in the Party. Ernesto remembers his work for the Communist Party and the difficulties he went through as a young leader. Ernesto discusses the benefits of having a family member living in the United States. Lastly, Ernesto comments on the cultural activities that were carried out at the Cultural Lyceum, while discussing the artists' fees and the lack of state resources to pay for the space
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Oral history interview with Esteban, 2005
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In the first session, Esteban recalls his childhood, his mother's death, and his first attempt to escape from the island. Esteban then discusses his first jobs and how he turned to clandestine work.
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Oral history interview with Eusebio, 2005
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Eusebio begins the first session by commenting on his housing situation and his work as a statesman. He discusses the relationship with foreigners on the island, problematic marijuana use, insecurity, and the role of the police in relation to violence. Eusebio comments on the political and economic relationship between Cuba and Venezuela. He discusses the role of Fidel Castro and his link to Hugo Chávez. He remembers his work as a teacher while he talks about youth and the Cuban educational system. Eusebio describes what trapicheo is about and comments on the Special Period. He also talks about clandestine jobs, migration to the United States, prostitution, and discrimination against women in the workplace. Eusebio comments on the situation of homosexuals in Cuba. He discusses the relationship between homosexuals and the rest of Cuban society. He then describes the homosexual scene on the island.
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Oral history interview with Eva, 2006
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Eva begins the interview by talking about her godparents' upbringing and the education she received. Eva recalls the pranks she played at school and her disinterest in school. She also remembers her father's care and the violence he used to exert on her. Eva recalls her pregnancy; how she found out she was going to have twins, and the death of her children. Eva comments on the relationships she has had. She remembers one of her ex-boyfriends, who left on a raft for the United States in 1994. Eva discusses the Mariel Exodus. She then discusses her relationship with the Pentecostal Church and her participation in support groups for tobacco use. Finally, Eva discusses her future
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Oral history interview with Excilia, 2008
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In the interview, Excilia recalls her childhood, her first jobs, and her wedding. She also recalls her training as a nurse. Excilia discusses racism and machismo in Cuba. She discusses her motivations in the workplace and participation in national and international medical congresses. Excilia discusses the incidence of HIV on the island. She then discusses the public policies being carried out to lower HIV transmission. Excilia discusses the changes in the social recognition of homosexual people
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Oral history interview with Felicia, 2005
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Felicia begins the interview by talking about her birthplace and her first jobs. Felicia then recalls moving to Havana, where she built her house on an abandoned lot. Felicia recalls a violent relationship she had. She also recalls when she started taking birth control pills, her first menstruation, and when her father threw her out of the house for having premarital sex. Finally, Felicia reflects on racism in Cuba
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Oral history interview with Fernando, 2005
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In the first session, Fernando recalls his father's suicide and discusses his relationship with death. Fernando recalls his childhood, especially different episodes of repudiation of people who wanted to exile from the island. He then discusses his relationship with his stepfather and the reasons why he considers him a role model. Fernando discusses drug trafficking in Cuba. Fernando recalls his approach to books, religiosity, spirituality, and philosophy. He also recalls the difference between social classes that was unleashed during the Special Period. Fernando reflects on the changes in the policies of rejection of religion and discusses Cuba's international relations.
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Oral history interview with Fidel, 2008
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In the interview, Fidel recalls his childhood and his first jobs. Then, he talks about racism, interracial marriages and gender inequalities. He also recalls his participation in different struggles for the Revolution. Fidel discusses the Special Period, the economic blockade and the decriminalization of the dollar. Finally, Fidel discusses religion on the island and censorship
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Oral history interview with Gabriel, 2005
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In the first session, Gabriel recalls life in the countryside with his family. Then, Gabriel reviews his education and his experience as a student teacher. He recalls his first theatrical experiences. Then, he comments on his university education and the reasons why he had to abandon his studies. Gabriel recalls the different places where he worked and comments on small anecdotes with his bosses.
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Oral history interview with Georgina, 2006
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In the first session, Georgina talks about her family's farm and her first jobs. She then discusses her first marriage and the violent relationship she had with her daughter's father. Georgina recalls when she was invited to go into exile because of her religious practices. She also discusses racism and the persecution of black people. Georgina describes her religious practices, Santeria in Cuba and the expulsion of homosexuals from Santeria practices. Georgina comments on Fidel Castro's role and economic problems.
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Oral history interview with Gisela, 2006
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Gisela begins the interview by remembering her childhood. She then discusses the bond with her grandmother and mother. Gisela comments on racism in her first job. Gisela discusses the Yoruba religion and the appropriation of Afro-Cuban religions by white communities. She then discusses arranged marriages with tourists in order to get off the island. Gisela discusses her relationship with the Communist Party. She also discusses homosexuality. Finally, Gisela recalls the Mariel Exodus and the Special Period
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Oral history interview with Giselle, 2005
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Giselle begins the interview by recalling how her family was affected by the arrival of the Revolution. Giselle discusses the impossibility of studying because she is Catholic. Giselle then describes her jobs and the U.S. visa lottery. She recalls the death of her brother in a car accident and her frustrated migration desires. Giselle discusses the Christian Liberation Movement and the state control over religious people. She also discusses censorship and fear of reprisals for being Catholic. Finally, Giselle discusses the growth of religiosity on the island, changes within the Church, and homosexuality
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Oral history interview with Gladys, 2008
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Gladys begins the first session remembering her childhood and the death of her mother. Gladys discusses racism in Cuba, especially during her childhood. She also recalls the changes that took place in Guantanamo during the Revolution. Gladys discusses the difficulties of being a single mother. She then discusses the departure of her son.
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Oral history interview with Guillermo, 2004
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Guillermo begins the interview talking about his grandmother and her immigration process from Spain to Cuba. Guillermo discusses the bond with his parents and their occupations. Guillermo describes interracial relationships at the mayonnaise factory where he worked. He discusses his family's position on interracial marriage and Black people. Guillermo describes his participation in various courses and job trainings, which led him to venture into different trades, such as shoemaker, glass welder and, finally, hairdresser. He discusses his work, his clients and machismo in Cuba. He says that he has had a male partner for more than twenty years. He believes he has suffered discrimination for associating with a man. He mentions the discriminatory actions of the police. He discusses his family's conservative values on homosexuality. Guillermo comments on crime and the cost of hairdressing supplies
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Oral history interview with Gustavo, 2005
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Gustavo begins the interview by talking about his medical parents, the privileged role they played in Cuban society and his life during the Special Period. He describes his work as a Civil Construction Technician, the importation of construction materials, and the process of approving building plans. He also discusses the housing crisis in Cuba. Gustavo discusses the role of women in the construction field. In addition, he discusses racism in his work. Gustavo describes the changes in the social status of homosexuals in Cuba. Gustavo explains the creation of a new bourgeoisie in Cuba. Finally, Gustavo discusses religion, especially the expansion of Jehovah's Witnesses
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Oral history interview with Homero, 2005
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Homero begins the first session by recalling his childhood on his grandfather's farm, his first jobs, and his relationship with his siblings. Homero then recalls the Special Period and comments on the lack of food. He also recalls the population growth that Campo Florido experienced in the 1980s. Homero discusses the similarities and differences between children raised in the countryside and children raised in town. He also discusses the improvements in the working conditions of the Black population after the Revolution. Homer discusses religion and the feasts of St. Anne and St. Lazarus.
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Oral history interview with Ileana, 2004
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In the interview, Ileana recalls her time in the Ministry of the Interior (MININT). Then, Ileana comments on the departure of her son's father to the United States and raising a child as a single mother. Ileana discusses homosexuality and lesbianism in Camagüey. She also discusses the use of contraceptives, family unity and gender violence. Ileana recalls the Special Period. Ileana discusses racism in the different governmental spaces in which she has worked. Ileana discusses the problems associated with the opening of Cuba to tourism. Finally, Ileana reflects on prostitution and state health services
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Oral history interview with Indira, 2006
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In the first session, Indira talks about her family and her birth. She then discusses her sports life, her participation in the Escuela de Iniciación Deportiva Escolar (EIDE), and her relationship with the judo team. Indira discusses the economic and housing problems on the island. She also discusses health and education. Indira comments on her family's santeria practices. Finally, she speaks pejoratively about homosexuality.
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Oral history interview with Irina, 2005
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Iris begins the first session by discussing her life in the countryside and the precarious conditions in which her family used to live. Iris recalls her father's violent behavior. She also recalls having to take care of her family, especially her schizophrenic brother. Iris discusses racism on the island being a mestiza.
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Oral history interview with Isabela, 2006
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Isabela begins the first session by talking about her studies and the birth of her first child in 1990. Isabela recalls her studies as a folkloric dancer and that her mother would not let her become a professional dancer. She also recalls the illness and death of her first husband and the caregiving duties she had to perform. Isabela describes what it was like to receive furniture for her child from the State. She then discusses motherhood and raising her son as a single mother.
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Oral history interview with Javier, 2004
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Javier begins the interview talking about his birth, his family, and the different places where he lived. He describes life in the farm. He discusses on loneliness and companionship. Javier describes the construction process of his house. Then, he recounts his work at the Sevilla irrigation company
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Oral history interview with Jorge, 2005
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Jorge begins the first session by discussing his belonging to a bourgeois Cuban family and the problems that came with being the son of revolutionaries. He also discusses racism during his time at school. Later, Jorge discusses his first love crushes.
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Oral history interview with José, 2008
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In the interview, José recalls his childhood. He then compares the education he received with the education his children received. He also recalls the gender relations in his childhood. José discusses his time in the military and his jobs. José describes the risks to which rafters are exposed. José discusses racism and homosexuality
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Oral history interview with Josefa, 2006
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In the first session, Josefa talks about her early years and her studies. Then, she recalls her first jobs. Josefa discusses motherhood. Josefa recalls the period before the Revolution living in Santiago de Cuba, very close to the Moncada Barracks, and the precarious conditions in which her family lived. Josefa compares the economic development in Havana and Santiago de Cuba. She then recalls her first love relationships.
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Oral history interview with Juan, 2005
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Juan starts by talking about his work and his family. Then, he comments on his fascination with the military service and his participation in the Ejercicio Bastión 86. Juan describes his childhood as "violent" and comments on his relationship with martial arts.
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Oral history interview with Juana and Yolanda, 2004
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At the beginning of the first session, the interview focuses on Juana, who recalls her childhood, her education, and the trips she made as a child to the United States. Juana also recalls the time when she was co-opted by the CIA for espionage work. She then reflects on racial separatism in the United States and the assassination of John F. Kennedy. Juana recounts her return to Cuba and the publication of her book. Later, Yolanda enters the conversation. They discuss the figure of Ernesto "Che" Guevara. Yolanda comments on her relationship with historical archives. Both reflect on racism and homosexuality in Cuba.
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Oral history interview with Julio, 2004
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Julio begins the interview talking about his birth and his family in Maisí, Cuba. Then, Julio comments on his education and his time in the Cuban army. He discusses his work as administrator of the Maisí Municipality's Cultural Department, why he is interested in working in culture, and about the role of women in this area. Julio comments on gender roles while he was growing up. He remembers his mother's teachings on home care and comments on the domestic work he does at home. Julio talks about racism in Cuba, given that he is a trigueño who is married to a white woman. He comments on religion and the relationship between Catholicism and the Communist Party. Julio discusses the relationship between prostitution and tourism. He also elaborates on how homosexuality has become naturalized on the island. Finally, he talks about his son and his daughter, the traditional upbringing he gives them, and what he would like for their future
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Oral history interview with Katia, 2007
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Katia begins the first session by talking about her birth and astrology. Katia describes the various jobs she held while commenting on the labor difficulties she had to face as a woman. She then discusses her family, the relationship that each of her relatives established with the Revolution, migrations, and Operation Peter Pan. Katia discusses motherhood.
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Oral history interview with Laura, 2007
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Laura begins the first session by recalling her childhood, her studies, life as a boarding school student, and the difficulties in choosing a university career. Then, Laura reviews her experience as a militant in the Young Communist League and the Communist Party, as well as the reasons why she decided to distance herself from her political commitment. Laura discusses her work as a food controller and brivery. She also discusses living with her brother and mother. Laura recalls the missile crisis, the death of Ernesto "Che" Guevara, the 1994 rafter crisis, the Special Period, and the Mariel exodus. She then discusses her relationship with homosexuality and the problems homosexuals face on the island. Finally, Laura discusses alcoholism in Cuba.
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Oral history interview with Lázaro, 2006
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In the first session, Lazaro discusses police persecution of homosexuals and the concept of "dangerousness". Lazaro comments on clandestine homosexual parties. He then discusses when he was diagnosed as HIV positive, his stay in Miguel Enriquez hospital for pulmonary emphysema, and the accompaniment of his family at times when his health was delicate. Lázaro discusses the administration of monetary donations from the United Nations (UN). Lázaro discusses homosexual prostitution. He also recalls his early homosexual experiences. Lazaro discusses wealth distribution, state control of currency, censorship, lack of freedom of speech, and tourism.
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Oral history interview with Lázaro, 2008
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Lázaro begins the interview remembering his youth and the Special Period. Lázaro discusses the different currencies in circulation in Cuba. He also discusses his work as a baker. Lázaro reflects on the economic situation of the country and military service. Towards the end of the interview, Lázaro's friends join the dialogue. They discuss racism, homosexuality, youth, and internet access
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Oral history interview with Lilia, 2008
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Lilia begins the first session by discussing her father's birth in Tampa, USA. Lilia discusses the story of her great-great-grandmother, who was an enslaved Black woman, and describes how she became a free person. She also traces her family tree. Lilia recalls the founding of the Yaguas neighborhood and the precarious conditions in which she and her neighbors lived when she was a child. Lilia discusses her education and recalls her quinceañera.
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Oral history interview with Lily, 2005
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Lily begins the interview by talking about her childhood and her upbringing. Lily then discusses what it was like to carry a pregnancy as a teenager. Lily describes her jobs and relates them to the places where she has lived. She also describes her family and the bond with her brothers. Lily discusses the Catholic religion. Later, Lily comments on what her life was like as a Black woman in Cuba and discusses racism on the island. She recalls how she met her first husband as she reflects on the sexual education she received from her family. Lily comments that she has had violent relationships with her last two partners. She also talks about motherhood. Finally, Lily reflects on the Revolution and Fidel Castro's role on the island
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Oral history interview with Lily, 2005
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Nena begins the interview by talking about her birth and life in her grandmother's house. She discusses the episode in which his father tried to kill his mother. Nena talks about her relationship with a man who is in prison and about life in prison. She discusses her housing and work situation. Then, she remembers what her relationship with her grandparents and siblings was like. Nena talks about the happiness she felt during her childhood, which was interrupted by the death of her grandfather. Then, she tells how her father was arrested for being a counterrevolutionary, a gusano. Nena discusses racism on the island, her mother's relationship with a black man, and her first love, also with a black man. She recounts her bond with Catholicism and recalls her Catholic upbringing. She also remembers the lack of sexual education that existed in her adolescence. Nena recounts what it was like to have an abortion and discuss contraception. Nena discusses homosexuality on the island and discrimination. She comments that her brother has been imprisoned on several occasions as a product of homophobia. Lastly, Nena discusses gender violence and the fear of loneliness as a middle-aged woman
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Oral history interview with Linda, 2005
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In the first session, Linda recalls her work as a history teacher and as a literacy teacher for the Communist Party. Her participation in the "La escuela al campo" program stands out. Linda reflects on the passion she finds in being a teacher and how she passed that passion on to her daughter (who works as a Culture and Health teacher). She also discusses machismo in Cuba, especially in the educational sector.
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Oral history interview with Lorenzo, 2006
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Lorenzo begins the first session by discussing the fights between the different factions of communism (26 July Movement, 13 March Revolutionary Directorate, the Second Front, and the Popular Socialist Party) in the pre-revolutionary period. He then recalls his childhood and obtaining the scholarship that allowed him to study in the United States. Lorenzo discusses the process of U.S. colonization that had taken place in Varadero before the Revolution. He recalls his time at the University of North Carolina and the jobs he had to do to support himself. Lorenzo also remembers his first jobs in the hotel business. He comments having provided information to the revolutionaries about the hotels where he had worked. Lorenzo recalls the early days of the Revolution, his first job at the National Association of Public Beaches and Tourist Attractions (ANPAT), the founding of the Jagua Hotel, and his time at the National Institute of the Tourism Industry (INIT). Finally, he describes the aristocracy of Cienfuegos in the pre-Revolutionary period.
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Oral history interview with Luis, 2005
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Luis begins the first session talking about his farming family, his relationship with his wife, and the dissatisfaction he feels for not having had children. Luis comments on his military service and his return to the farm. He then describes the clandestine sale of food, in which he does not participate. He also describes the operation of the agricultural cooperative he runs.
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Oral history interview with Marcos, 2006
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Marcos talks about his birth, his studies, and his love for Cuban history. He then comments on his work as a bus mechanic. Marcos recalls the Mariel Exodus, the emigration of two of his brothers, and the stigma attached to the family of those who migrated. Marcos discusses religiosity in Cuba. He also discusses his job, the delay in payments, and the ineffectiveness of the union. Marcos discusses the racism and police persecution he has suffered as a Black man. Marcos then comments on Fidel Castro's illness and homosexuality in Cuba. Finally, he discusses places he would like to travel to in the future
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Oral history interview with Margarita, 2007
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In the interview, Margarita recalls her studies and her stay in Nicaragua. She then comments on her family's rejection of her ties with women. Margarita talks about insecurity in Havana, machismo in popular music, and violence against women in public. Margarita reflects on the hatred towards lesbians and racism. Margarita discusses lesbian masculinities and femininities
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Oral history interview with María, 2005
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María begins the first session by remembering her work in the fields when she was little and her beginnings as a seamstress. Later, she discusses her ex-husband and children leaving for Miami. She comments on the ways they found to stay in touch with her. María remembers her visits to Miami. She recalls the arrival of the Cuban Revolution and the changes it brought to her life. María discusses religion and racism in Campo Florido. Maria comments on her joining the Odd Fellows Lodge. Later, she discusses the relationship between transportation deficiency and tourism. She also discusses the unionization process that took place in Campo Florido after the Revolution.
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Oral history interview with Maricela, 2006
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Maricela begins the first session by discussing the death of her father. She then discusses her life before the arrival of the Revolution, the burning of the Encanto store, and the process of creating a union. Then, Maricela recalls the Zafra of 1970 and the consumption by a passbook. Maricela comments on how she acted with the workers who stole from the stores. Maricela discusses her communist brothers and the purchase of bonds from 26 July Movement.
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Oral history interview with Mariel, 2006
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Mariel begins the interview by recalling his childhood and the restrictions on Cubans entering exclusive tourist stores. He then recalls the sports tournaments in which he participated. Mariel comments on when they stopped paying his grandmother's pension because she had relatives abroad and his life as the child of an exile. Mariel criticizes the unions and the functioning of communism in Cuba. He also recalls the rafters of the 1990s and the decriminalization of the U.S. dollar. Mariel reflects on what it means to him to be a dictator. Mariel discusses the difficulties of accessing the nightlife in Havana
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Oral history interview with Marielis, 2006
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Marielis begins the first session by discussing her bond with her mother and father and the rigidity of her upbringing. Marielis then recalls her first jobs and the period when she was pregnant with her daughter. Marielis recalls her first job in tourism, where she met her German husband. She also recalls her life in Munich. Marielis discusses her first relationships with women, living with partners, and sex education. At the same time, Marielis recalls the imprisonment of people for organizing gay and lesbian parties. She discusses the lack of LGBT spaces. Marielis discusses the lack of artistic materials in Cuba. She also discusses the relationship between Cubans and entertainment. Marielis recalls the Special Period and the acquisition of her first house. Later, she discusses the link between Cuba and the rest of Latin America. Marielis reflects on the opening to tourism. Marielis discusses racism, the fetishization of Black women, machismo, and the emergence of a mulatto identity.
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Oral history interview with Mario, 2006
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In the first session, Mario discusses his childhood and his father's absence. Mario comments on his father's return after eleven years in prison. He also recalls the reconstruction of his house thanks to Plan San Isidro. Mario recalls his pre-university studies, his first love relationships, and the petty thefts he carried out in the fields near the Saúl Delgado Pre-University Institute. Mario discusses the possible job opportunities for a Cuban industrial engineer. Later, he recalls the end of the Socialist Bloc. Mario discusses the racial problems he has experienced as a Black man while studying. He also discusses his disagreements with the Communist Party. Mario recalls the period of the rafters and discusses the departure of his brother, with whom he has no further ties since then. Mario discusses the role of the unions.
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Oral history interview with Marissa, 2007
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In the first session, Marissa discusses lesbianism and early identification of her sexual orientation. Marissa discusses her relationship with her family. She then discusses police repression of lesbians and gays. Marissa reflects on the need for exile felt by homosexual people. She also discusses tourism in Santiago. Marissa discusses the situation of women and machismo.
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Oral history interview with Mercedes, 2006
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At the beginning of the interview, Mercedes talks about her birth, her studies, and growing up in a family of limited economic resources. Then, Mercedes comments on the Special Period, the Mariel Exodus, and the situation of Cuban rafters in the 1990s. Mercedes describes her bad experience in the La Escuela al Campo program and discusses the changes in the educational system. Finally, she discusses racism and the economic situation in Cuba
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Oral history interview with Mercedes and Marta, 2004
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In this interview, Mercedes and Marta discuss aspects of the Cuban Revolution concerning their biographies, separated by one generation. Mercedes begins by telling the story of her family and the educational limitations of her generation. She also proposes that there was a generational change around racism since she believes that Cubans are not as racist in the 2000s as when she was young. Both talk about how Marta's brothers went to study in Havana while she did not have that opportunity. Marta discusses her job as a lab technician. Both Marta and Mercedes talk about the work ethic in Cuba. They discuss the role of rural workers, the distribution of land by the State, improvements in the working conditions of farmers and their lives during the Special Period. They continue to talk about health and education in Cuba. Marta and Mercedes stress that no one in their family is living outside the country. They discuss the changes in the role of women in Cuba, comparing marital relations across three generations. Marta comments that she belongs to the Catholic religion. She believes that young people no longer go to church. Mercedes and Marta discuss racism and class differences on the island. Marta discusses negatively homosexuality in Cuban daily life
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Oral history interview with Miguel, 2008
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Miguel begins the interview by discussing his birth and his studies. Then, he comments on his first jobs in the railway field. Miguel recalls the bond he had with his schoolmates. Miguel briefly tells the history of his family. Miguel describes the different jobs he did as a railroad inspector. He reflects on the economic link between Cuba, Venezuela and China. He also reflects on racism. Miguel recalls the Mariel Exodus and the rafters. Miguel discusses health services in Cuba. He describes his work in the Central de Trabajadores de Cuba (CTC) and in the unions. Miguel discusses the efficiency of the unions. He then discusses Fidel Castro's illness and Raul Castro's government. Finally, Miguel describes his expectations for the future
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Oral history interview with Nachy, 2010
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Nachy begins the first session describing her birth and her youth. Nachy talks about her childhood, her upbringing, and her early commitment to the Revolution. Nachy says that her house is not luxurious and that it requires various repairs that have not yet been approved by the government, even though she makes her contributions to the Committee for the Defense of the Revolution (CDR). She discusses her school background and all the jobs she has held. At that time, she had to take responsibility for her house, which always belonged to her family, and in which more than twenty people had lived. Nachy remembers the games she used to play when she was young, how boys and girls were separated, and her first talks about sex with her mother. Nachy discusses premarital sex, racism, interracial marriages, and being a Black woman. Nachy comments on the bond with her husband's family. She examines immigration policies in relation to social class. According to Nachy, her neighborhood is not very adept at the Revolution. She questions the Housing Law. Nachy comments on the caring of her children. She discusses motherhood and contraception. Nachy gives her negative opinion on homosexuality and travestismo in Cuba
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Oral history interview with Nancy, 2007
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In the interview, Nancy discusses lesbianism and her coming out. She recalls being kicked out by her family when she told them about her identity. Nancy also recalls visiting her father in prison. Nancy discusses her studies and the reasons she was expelled from college. Nancy recalls how she met the French man she intended to marry. Nancy discusses marriages of convenience. Nancy discusses buying goods in foreign currency. She recalls her first relationships with women. Nancy reflects on the problems of making friends as a lesbian, hate towards lesbians and machismo. She also reflects on racism. Nancy comments on the fear that Cubans feel about Fidel Castro's death. Nancy expresses her wishes for her life in France
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Oral history interview with Natalia, 2008
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In the first session, Natalia recalls her childhood and the period when her father was imprisoned. Natalia reflects on the helplessness her family felt when the Cuban government intervened on their farm. She also recalls her first jobs. Natalia discusses the persecution her family experienced because her father was a counterrevolutionary. Natalia reflects on racism. Next, she recalls the Special Period and discusses the experiences of rafters leaving Central Granma. Finally, she discusses the elections in Cuba.
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Oral history interview with Niurka, 2006
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In the interview, Niurka recalls her mother's upbringing and the bond she has with her. Then, Niurka reflects on the careers she started but could not finish due to the difficulties of studying while being a mother. Niurka talks about the Escuela de Iniciación Deportiva Escolar and about her jobs
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Oral history interview with Odielis, 2007
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In the interview, Odielis recalls her childhood and the bond with her grandfather. Odielis tells the story of her family. She then recalls the games she played as a child. Odielis talks about her job at the construction materials store. She also discusses her love of movies and home movie production. Odielis discusses her first sexual relations with women. She discusses reading books on communist philosophy
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Oral history interview with Ofelia, 2005
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In the interview, Ofelia recounts her family history, from her father's immigration to her grandmother's upbringing. Ofelia also reflects on different experiences of racism she lived through as a Black woman. She discusses her bond with her husband. Ofelia reflects on crime. She also gives a negative opinion about homosexuality. Ofelia recalls the quinceañeras of her youth
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Oral history interview with Ofelia, 2008
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Ofelia begins the first session by recounting the moment when she was abandoned by her mother with her sister. She then recalls the violence that her father exercised over her. Ofelia discusses her first jobs. Ofelia discusses her relationship with her daughter's father, who was imprisoned for selling drugs and then exiled to the United States. Ofelia discusses her work as a jinetera (sex worker). She also recalls the Mariel Exodus, the rafters, and the electricity problems during the Special Period. Ofelia reflects on the repression of social protest and the persecution of prostitutes. She discusses Santeria. Ofelia discusses insecurity, the lack of economic stability, the Battle of Ideas, and the alliance Cuba established with Venezuela. Ofelia links racism to classism. She also reflects on the sale of clandestine products, the lack of food, and censorship. Ofelia expresses her desire to go into exile. Throughout the interview, Ofelia expresses her criticism of Fidel Castro's government. Finally, she discusses the lack of teachers.
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Oral history interview with Olga, 2008
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Olga begins the first session by discussing her decision to move to Havana to continue her studies. She recalls falling in love with her second husband, a doctor. She also recalls her time at the Baptist school. Olga discusses the changes in her high school education between the period before the Revolution and the years after. Olga discusses her relationship with Frank País and with Angela Davis. Olga discusses her family's exile, motivated by religious or ideological reasons. Olga then discusses her son's illness, the lack of medicines during the Special Period, the difficulties in obtaining a visa to move to the United States, and obtaining a humanitarian visa. She then recalls the problems in accessing medical care in the United States, the lack of money, and her link to the Willy Chirino Foundation. Olga discusses motherhood. Olga also discusses the gender composition of the pedagogical school and the persecution of homosexuals. She then discusses machismo in Cuba and hate towards homosexual people. Finally, Olga discusses the precariousness of the teaching profession.
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Oral history interview with Oscar, 2005
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At the beginning of the interview, Oscar talks about his birth and recalls military service. Then, Oscar discusses Cuban educational policies, free education, and the conditions of health services. He recalls the Special Period and the emergence of social classes. Oscar reflects on insecurity, tourism, and salary problems. He also discusses the Varela Project, opposition to the government, the Black Spring of 2003, state control, clandestine markets, and the economic blockade. Oscar is concerned about censorship, the lack of critical spaces, and media control by the Cuban government. Oscar reflects on his relationship with faith. He then discusses his inability to travel and his desire for freedom. Finally, Oscar compares life in Havana with other parts of the country
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Oral history interview with Pablo, 2005
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Pablo begins the interview by discussing his father's abandonment, his first jobs to help his uncles and aunts, and the experience of studying after the arrival of the Revolution. Pablo discusses his work as a lineman and as a supervisor. He recalls receiving bribes to approve different installations. Pablo discusses the economic situation in Cuba and the lack of medicine and food. Pablo recalls the hospitalization of his brother and mother for cancer. He also recalls his sister's departure in the Mariel exodus. Pablo discusses his life as a painter and sheet metal worker and the difficulties he faces to make ends meet. Pablo discusses how religion kept him away from alcoholism. Pablo discusses evangelism, censorship and the Agua viva program. Finally, Pablo discusses racism in love relationships
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Oral history interview with Pachy, 2005
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In the interview, Pachy talks about his birth and his family. Then, Pachy comments on his experience in the military service and the reasons why he decided not to participate anymore. He also recalls his first love relationships. Pachy relates different anecdotes of survival as a gay man in Cuba. He then reflects on racism, the Special Period and the figure of Fidel Castro. Pachy also reflects on relationships
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Oral history interview with Paco, 2005
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Paco begins the first interview by talking about his family and his house. Then, he reflects on gender roles in children's games. Paco comments that he decided not to study after finishing his secondary studies. This created problems with his family. Paco is interested in religion. He is an ngandulero. His family was religious but they did not go to any church, since it was prohibited. Paco discusses religion and racism on the island. Paco remembers his sexual initiation in a brothel. Then, Paco recalls all the jobs he had. He makes a brief comment about his clandestine work during the Special Period. Paco talks about his marriages, raising his children, and remembers how his grandparents raised him. He discusses homosexuality and tourism. Paco says that the island's economic instability scares him. In the second interview, Paco returns to the religious topic and comments on his relationship with Aldo, his spiritual guide
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Oral history interview with Paula, 2008
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Paula begins the first session by talking about her childhood, the pranks she played as a child and her private education in Vedado. She then comments on her routine as a pre-university student and her fondness for the radio soap operas of the time. Paula recalls her time at the university and her first jobs in the scientific field. She also recalls the weekend clubs and the movies from the Hollywood's Golden Age that she went to see at the cinema. Paula discusses the scientific evaluation committees that graded her performance at the Academy of Science. Paula discusses her admiration for Fidel Castro and her anti-Castro family. Paula discusses Cuban migration to the United States in the run-up to the Revolution. She then recalls a period of depression she went through when she was young. Finally, Paula discusses libraries in Havana.
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Oral history interview with Pedro, 2005
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In the interview, Pedro discusses his studies, work, and joining the family farm. Pedro discusses the agricultural cooperatives. He also recalls the Special Period and the transportation problems. Pedro discusses the racial differences in Campo Florido and the religions practiced in the area. Pedro comments on the farming system on the farm. Finally, he discusses housing problems and land inheritance
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Oral history interview with Petra, 2005
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Petra begins the first session by discussing her family, her education, and her parents' work. She remembers the hobbies that occupied her days, such as the movies and local festivals. Petra reflects on the patron saint festivities while remembering the racial separation: in the festivities for white people, the entrance for Black people was prohibited. Petra reflects on the state of abandonment in which Campo Florido is, which can be seen in the lack of means of transportation and cultural events, blackouts, drug use, and constant migration, both external and internal. Petra then discusses birth control, motherhood, and premature menopause. She remembers the clandestine activities in which she participated during the development of the Revolution, such as listening to Radio Rebelde. Petra reflects on Operation Peter Pan, which had direct consequences on her family. She also reflects on her marriage, the bond with her ex-partner, and household chores.
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Oral history interview with Raidel, 2006
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At the beginning of the interview, Raidel discusses his birth and growing up with a father deprived of his freedom. Raidel recalls his first crime. Then, he discusses the precarious conditions in Cuban prisons and the impossibility for former prisoners to reintegrate into social life. Raidel comments on the situation of tourism in Cuba. He also discusses the economic crisis and the repression of the youth. Raidel recalls the racial problems he has had to face as a Brown man while discussing racism and social classes. Raidel also recalls the repression of rafters during the 1990s. Raidel discusses the rise of nightlife, illegal substance abuse, and drug trafficking. He also discusses homosexuality and sex work. Raidel discusses the growth of religiosity in Cuba as an effect of a need for protection. Finally, Raidel discusses education and the lack of nurses on the island
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Oral history interview with Ramona, 2006
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In the interview, Ramona talks about her studies and her move to Havana. She recalls her first job and her first engagement. Her mother joins the conversation. When she does, she talks about her work, the duties of a homemaker and recalls some revolutionary fights. Then Ramona talks about her back problems and medical leave. She describes her work in the agricultural cooperatives and the incentives she has received based on production. Ramona discusses the Santeria festivities. Finally, she discusses what the Revolution means to her and the changes she would make to improve the revolutionary process
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Oral history interview with Ramonín, 2006
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Ramonín begins the first session by discussing his life during the Fulgencio Batista dictatorship, the arrival of the Revolution, and the economic precariousness during the Special Period. Ramonín then describes his work in the countryside as a child. He recalls his time in the police force, where he was in charge of detecting possible explosives. He also recalls when he was forced to marry by the Communist Party. Ramonín discusses his thoughts about youth. He then recalls his upbringing and the division of tasks between the men and women in the household. Ramonín recalls the literacy process. He then compares life in the countryside with life in the city.
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Oral history interview with Raúl, 2005
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In the first session, Raul discusses his early life and his lack of formal education. Raul recalls his marriage and the birth of his children. Raúl discusses the changes in Campo Florido and in campesino work after the arrival of the Revolution. He then recalls the Santa Ana festivities during his childhood. Raul discusses being taught to read and write by the Literacy Brigades. Finally, he comments on cattle rustling during the Special Period.
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Oral history interview with Ricardo, 2008
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In the first session, Ricardo recalls moving with his family to Havana. He also recalls his first homosexual experiences and his decision to engage in sex work. Ricardo discusses the lack of places for homosexuals and police persecution. He then discusses discrimination against homosexuals and transvestites. Ricardo discusses transvestites' access to surgeries. Ricardo recalls the Special Period, the Mariel Exodus and the economic blockade. He also recalls the hormone treatment he underwent as a child. Ricardo comments on the forced labor camps for homosexuals. Ricardo compares the life of homosexuals in Cuba with other countries.
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Oral history interview with Rita, 2006
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Rita begins the interview by talking about the abusive relationship with her parents and her upbringing by her grandparents and aunt. She then comments on the different jobs she has had in hospitals. Rita discusses her criticisms of the union of which she is a member and the Cuban government. She also discusses the problems encountered by Cubans who do not have U.S. dollars to access entertainment venues. Rita discusses emigration and the Mariel Exodus. Rita gives her views on Raul Castro. Throughout the interview, Rita explains what life is like as a Jehovah's Witness
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Oral history interview with Rokatar, 2008
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In the interview, Rokatar discusses his birth, his involvement in the Red Beret guerrillas as a teenager and his time in military service. Then, Rokatar discusses the relationship between boys and girls when he was a child. He recalls his participation in the 1970 harvest in Matanzas. Rokatar also recalls his participation in Angola and Ethiopia and his role as an anti-aircraft scout. Rokatar discusses business dealings related to religion. Finally, he discusses racism
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Oral history interview with Roly, 2005
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Roly begins his story by recounting his birth, his early years and how the arrival of the Cuban Revolution changed his life. He comments on his time in the army and in Mexico. Roly recalls his childhood in a coeducational public school. He also recalls that he was a bad student but that changed when the Revolution arrived and he felt obliged to discipline himself. Roly discusses his family's Santeria practices. Roly does not recall experiencing racist situations in his childhood. Roly reflects on marriage. He recalls having conflicts with his second partner because of age. Roly discusses the departure of one of his sons to the United States and the interracial marriage of one of his daughters. Finally, Roly reflects on homosexuality, which he describes in negative terms
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Oral history interview with Rosa, 2006
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Rosa begins the first session by remembering her revolutionary father and the persecution of communism before the arrival of the Revolution. Later, Rosa discusses the role of literacy spaces as educators of revolutionaries.
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Oral history interview with Rosa Ramírez, 2006
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Rosa begins the interview by describing her childhood and adolescence. Then, she comments on the founding of the group Las Isabelas and their work to confront the AIDS Crisis. Rosa describes her relationship with her family and the pressure they exerted on her to marry a man. Rosa discusses the problems she has faced for being a lesbian in the workplace. She describes the bond between lesbians and gays. Rosa discusses different gay and lesbian militant groups in Cuba, the need for unification of the LGBT+ movement, and her relationship with Mariela Castro. Rosa discusses the novel La cara oculta de la luna. She also discusses violence against lesbians and hate towards homosexual people. Rosa discusses people who have had to migrate because of their sexual orientation. Rosa describes her link and that of the youth with Castroism. She also describes the link between lesbian organizations and the Federation of Cuban Women. Rosa discusses lesbian masculinities and femininities. Finally, Rosa describes the process of mestizaje in Cuba
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Oral history interview with Salomón, 2008
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Salomón begins the first session by recalling his studies and his first jobs in health services. He then recalls his participation in the Federation of High School Students (FEEM). Salomón comments on his time at the Escuela de Cuadros and the challenges he faced in combining his work with his activism. Salomón recalls his childhood in a working class neighborhood in Havana and discusses his father's revolutionary commitment.
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