Lien Estrada, a contributor to independent media, received an offer to coordinate women's groups at Cuba's National Center for Sexual Education (CENESEX). Though interested due to her feminist training, she hesitates because of director Mariela Castro Espín. Her mother warns of potential rejection over her journalism.
In a diary entry published on Havana Times, Lien Estrada recounts how a friend offered her a role at CENESEX, Cuba's National Center for Sexual Education, led by Mariela Castro Espín, daughter of Raúl Castro. The position involves coordinating women's groups, appealing to Estrada given her background in feminist training and socio-theological workshops from seminary.
"I would love to, but its national director is Mariela Castro Espín, and just because of that, a 'no' comes out of my mouth faster than a 'yes,'" Estrada wrote. Her friend urged her to overlook that and focus on the center's work. Estrada discussed it with her mother, a former History teacher and coordinator for the Federation of Cuban Women (FMC), who questioned: "First of all, they're not going to let you in, because the background check will show that you write for independent outlets. And that alone is horrifying for them."
Her mother suggested inquiring if they would allow Estrada to keep writing for independent publications. Estrada called her friend, noting her grassroots journalism, but the friend said they would review her published topics. Estrada recalled previously distancing herself from the Red Cross in Cuba upon learning it falls under the Ministry of the Interior (MININT).
In the end, she did not pursue the offer, citing the suffocating politicization in the country. "This job offer, though it fell through, ultimately made me happy," she reflected, hopeful for a post-totalitarian future where differing opinions pose no threat.
