For the second year in a row, the COVID-19 pandemic forces the Committees for the Defense of the Revolution (CDR) to keep waiting for their plans to return to traditional celebrations on the occasion of a new anniversary; the number 61, now. However, they reserve the moments to recognize outstanding people and institutions in the CDRs' work.

Las Tunas, Cuba.- Representatives in the province of the Cuban largest mass organization announced that, before the 61st birthday, small ceremonies of recognition for the most outstanding members will take place in the neighborhood. In particular, 12 of them will receive the 28 de Septiembre Distinction, and another eight will be awarded the Medal for the Defense of the Homeland and the Unity of the Neighborhood. As well, the titanic effort in the common battle against COVID-19 by Public Health workers and other sectors of the territory's social and economic life, including the leaders of the CDRs will be honored.

Besides, cleaning activities will be promoted in urban and rural communities, always complying with the safe distancing measures established to prevent the transmission of the SARS-CoV-2.

Also, three institutions will receive the 2021 Barrio Award, an annual prize instituted by the CDRs to commend individuals, groups, and families that have contributed to the unity of the Revolution with their work and example, and have accompanied the organization with their work, also standing out for its community work and social contribution.

This time, it was granted to the 13 de Marzo Special School, in the municipality of Jobabo, the TunasVisión television channel, and the University of Medical Sciences; the latter, as part of a national tribute to the key role of the Cuban student body of that branch in the fight against the COVID-19.