The José Martí Cultural Society (SCJM) celebrated on September 3rd its 25 years of existence in Las Tunas, with the challenge of conquering new scenarios to expand its actions in institutions and communities through social media and other digital platforms.

Las Tunas, Cuba.- In the meeting, held at the Vicente García Provincial Museum with the participation of the representatives of the José Martí Clubs of the territory, their experiences in the immediate environment where they function were presented, in which the Internet has become -the last times- in space to reach everyone and a platform through which the thought of the Apostle has the possibility of reaching more people.

Alberto Velázquez, recently deserving of the Joven Patria Award, explained that the first thing we have to do is defend our identity based on the ideals of José Martí, taking into account that the essence of his thought is humanist.”

Perla Quintana Pérez, from the Ismaelillo Club, pointed out that it is necessary to avoid distortions and little fidelity to the ideas of the Maestro, and “bombard the digital platforms with the true thought of José Martí; an important challenge for the SCJM, as a non-governmental organization that has a significant role in this country. We cannot let Martí die because we will die”.

The event also propitiated to remember the first stage, thanks to the research carried out by whoever was president of the organization for fifteen years, Joel Lachataignerais Popa, who recalled the people who guided the beginnings, transcendental moments, and achievements.

The current president, Carmen Velázquez Santana, emphasized that they still lack a headquarters, which causes difficulties in the functioning and the development of their own activities, for which they must resort to other entities and organizations; but they focus on what is needed each day for the proper working of the Society.

Among the main short-term challenges, is the celebration -next January 28th- of the 170th birth anniversary of José Martí; an event for which they will display activities that will bring together people of all ages from Las Tunas, especially to achieve a greater internalization of the thought of Cuban National Hero.