Holguin and Cuba Embrace Inclusion and Care for People with Albinism

With heightened sensitivity and a firm commitment to dismantling historical stigmas. The Day of Awareness and Sensitization of Albinism began in the province of Holguin. The event kicked off on June 8th at the Alex Urquiola Provincial Library with the presentation of “Coral Skin.” A noble project by the Cuban Community of People with Albinism (CPAC). This project aims to raise awareness, with love and respect. Of the realities faced by those living with this genetic condition.

Moreover this initiative is supported by key institutions in the region. Including the Casa de Iberoamérica, the Center for Retinitis Pigmentosa and Albinism, the National Association of the Blind (ANCI), the host library, and the Provincial Council of Scientific Health Societies. This demonstrates the commitment of the Cuban state and civil organizations. Alo to address the issue not only as a medical condition but also as a matter of social rights and full integration.

Therefore, the program’s opening was guided by the words and dedication of women who have devoted their work to this cause. Highlighting the participation of Master of Science Iliana Pupo Herrera and Bárbara Martínez Pupo, creators and national directors of Health and Culture at CPAC, respectively. Along with Yanet Ochoa Sánchez, founder and National President of the organization. Who all agree that education and empathy are the best tools for building a society free of prejudice.

Meanwhile to continue this schedule, the activities will resume on June 10th at 9:00 a.m. at the Provincial Library. A space transformed into a platform for resilience with the discussion “Stigmas of a Condition.” The first presentation, “Testimony of an Albino Woman in Holguin.” It will be given by Yolanda Huerta Sosa, provincial vice president of the CPAC. Who will share her experiences of daily challenges, overcome obstacles, and the dreams of equality that unite her community.

Furthermore, recognizing the close relationship between health and self-esteem. The agenda will move to the Casa de Iberoamérica, the official headquarters of the CPAC, on June 12th at 10:00 a.m. There, the panel “Aesthetics and Skin Care for People with Albinism” will take place. This vital scientific and human exchange, especially relevant in our tropical climate. It will feature the expertise of renowned local specialists Aliuska Fernández Mora, Katherine Batista Ochoa, and Leticia Pérez Domínguez, moderated by Iliana Pupo Herrera.

To close the festivities in the City of Parks, on June 14th at 2:00 p.m., the literary institution will open its doors to the Peña Contactos (In touch). A cultural and social space dedicated entirely to honoring and listening to the Albino Community.
It is important to emphasize that the spirit of Piel de Coral (Coral Skin) is not limited to the Holguin region. It extends like a solidarity embrace throughout the nation. Uniting efforts in support of public health and inclusive culture.

Under this beautiful principle that encapsulates the sense of identity and dignity. The Albino Community of Cuba invites all of society to look beyond melanin. Reaffirming that the true beauty of the nation lies in the diversity of its people. In the capacity of its citizens to ensure that no one is left behind through ever-increasing respect.

By: Daimy Peña Guillén