ENFORCED DISAPPEARANCE OF JOSÉ DANIEL FERRER CUBAN PRISONER OF CONSCIENCE

As three months have passed since on March 17. 2023 the Archbishop of Santiago de Cuba Dionisio García Ibáñez last saw the Prisoner of Conscience and Cuban pro-democracy leader, José Daniel Ferrer, alive, we publish this letter to democratic governments, human rights organizations, and lawmakers in Canada and around the world.

Physically and psychologically tortured, José Daniel endures because he has been leading the peaceful yet unwavering fight for democracy in Cuba for over 30 years. He has vowed to never accept forced exile and remains in Cuba, steadfast in his pursuit of freedom.

We urge all freedom loving human beings worldwide to join us in pressuring the Cuban dictatorship for his immediate and unconditional release, as well as that of all prisoners of conscience in Cuba.

Today, we appeal to the global community, institutions advocating for human rights, democratic governments, and the media. Join us in demanding proof of life and the immediate release of José Daniel Ferrer García, a Cuban pro-democracy leader and prisoner of conscience.

Internationally recognized and respected, José D. Ferrer is a recipient of the Truman Reagan Medal of Freedom. He serves as the National Coordinator of the Patriotic Union of Cuba and President of the Council for the Democratic Transition in Cuba. He is a passionate advocate for the CubaDecide initiative, empowering the people to choose their system of government in a binding plebiscite.

For three agonizing months, since March 17, José D. Ferrer has endured forced disappearance, violating Cuba's international obligations. We've raised our voices, condemning the deplorable conditions he faces.

José D. Ferrer suffers in extreme isolation, confined in a cell resembling a chamber of torture. This inhumanity began with his arbitrary arrest on July 11, 2021. He faces inadequate food, lack of medical care, and contaminated water. Hope fades in that dark prison cell.

We call on democratic leaders, legislators and civil society to unite demanding proof of life and Ferrer's immediate release. Advocate for a United Nations’ inspection visit to assess political prisoners in Cuba. The UN must address Cuba's dire human rights situation. Let us strive for a world that upholds rights and rejects oppression.