Esteemed and renown historian and professor Barbara Ransby with guests Reverend Izett Samá Hernández and Loyet García Broche at the Chicago Justice Gallery event organized by Bettina Johnson
The visit of Reverend Izett Samá Hernández and Loyet García Broche, key leaders and human rights defenders from the Centro Memorial Martin Luther King Jr. (CMLK) in La Habana, Cuba, marked a significant moment in CRLN’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its relationship with the CMLK. From April 13 to April 19, 2024, their visit to Chicago featured impactful events centered around political education, liberatory theology, and liberatory education. The CMLK’s work, blending secular and religious elements, holds profound significance in Cuba and internationally. CRLN was honored to host Reverend Hernández and García Broche, whose leadership continues to inspire movements in Cuba and beyond. This visit follows CRLN’s successful delegation to Cuba in January 2024, deepening the collaborative ties between our organizations and setting the stage for future strategic initiatives.
The visit included a diverse range of events aimed at engaging Chicago’s community in meaningful discussions on social justice and liberation. Notable highlights included an interactive CRLN Open House at University Church, where attendees learned more about CRLN’s work and engaged with community leaders. Reverend Hernández’s sermon during the Sunday service at University Church was a powerful experience, offering attendees a unique perspective on the intersections of faith, justice, and liberation. Later in the week, the Cuba-focused events, including a discussion on Cuba’s Code of Families, explored the country’s progressive social policies, highlighting the struggles and triumphs of the LGBTQI+ community and family rights.
This series of events was a resounding success, with strong participation from local activists, faith leaders, and allies. The discussions fostered a deeper understanding of the social movements in Cuba, reinforcing CRLN’s commitment to promoting solidarity and human rights. Special thanks go to Reverend Hernández and García Broche for their leadership and to all who made these events possible. Their visit not only strengthened the connection between CRLN and the CMLK but also set the groundwork for future collaborations and events that will continue to educate and inspire action toward justice and equality.
Solidarity dinner to honor the work of the Centro Memorial Martin Luther King Jr. (CMLK) in La Habana, Cuba
