By César Omar Sánchez – co-chair of the National Network on Cuba.
Cuban Ambassador to the United Nations Yuri Gala Lopéz visits the Whitney Museum of American Art for the Edges of Ailey exhibition to celebrate the life and visionary artist Alvin Ailey. Along with the Second Secretary of the Permanent Mission of Cuba to the United Nations, Yaima González Piñeiro, both Cubans were highly impressed with the art show and were surprised to know that Alvin Ailey’s long history of his dances, influences, and choreography he brought to not only the black community but to the entire world.
Ben Jones and Chapman Roberts were also among the group that joined Yuri and Yaima at the art exhibition at the Whitney Museum. Together, we all agreed that one of the major components of building solidarity with Cuba is through culture: the arts, music, dance, and theater.
Ben Jones, a well-known and respected figure in New Jersey, recognizes that through the arts, we can build bridges with Cuba and better relationships between Cuba and the United States. Ben is no stranger to the community when it comes to working against oppression, exploitation, and hegemony through the symbolism of his work.
“The United States embargo on Cuba cannot stop us from reaching out and working with Cuban artists”, said 4-time Grammy Award winner Chapman Roberts. Chapman Roberts who debuted in the original Broadway cast of Hair and recorded with legendary artists like Gregory Hines, Horace Silver, Weather Report, and B.B. King understands the importance of continuing to build relations with Cuba.
When we look back at artists like Alvin Ailey, we have to remember that many of these artists stood up to racism and oppression against all people in the United States and worldwide. Through his talented gifts, an artist like Alvin Ailey will never be forgotten. His dances inspired millions around the world. When it comes to art, there are no boundaries, as art itself is a universal and spiritual part of our daily lives.
