Randy Arteaga Rivera

Demandamos su liberación inmediata

UPDATE: As of January 16 at 10:46 AM, it is reported that Arteaga Rivera was conditionally released as part of the Cuban government’s “gradual” release of 553 prisoners, a move mediated by the Vatican and announced on January 14. ARC, PEN International, and CRD remain vigilant and ready to report on new developments as they arise, and renew their call for the immediate and unconditional release of the artists who remain unjustly deprived of their freedom. 

Cuban musician Randy Arteaga Rivera, better known in artistic circles as Randy AR, is one of the most interesting emerging musicians of the current rap scene in Cuba.

Born on December 3, 1990, his creative intelligence is demonstrated through the lyrics of his songs, which are a cry of indignation for the social injustices of his country, such as racism, discrimination, and the current state of things.

On July 11, 2021, Randy Arteaga Rivera was violently arrested and dragged to a police bus while he was peacefully participating in protests in Santa Clara, a Cuban province. In April 2022, he was sentenced to five years in prison for the alleged crimes of “contempt” and “public disorder.”

Since his arrest, Randy has already served three years in prison, without the possibility of parole. He remains confined in a camp and is allowed to go out to visit his family every two months. He is also allowed to communicate with his relatives three times a week. Arteaga was the primary caregiver for his mother and daughter, who miss him greatly and deeply feel his absence in all aspects of their lives. 

His health condition has changed greatly during his confinement. He has been ill multiple times, including getting COVID-19. He is currently being treated for toxoplasmosis, an infection caused by eating undercooked meat or being in contact with unhealthy surfaces, which in severe cases, such as his, can affect tissues inside the eye and lead to loss of vision. 

On occasion, he has been the victim of mistreatment and emotional violence in prison. His faith is one of the pillars that keeps him strong. However, he is not allowed to receive visits from his friends who profess the same beliefs.

In spite of everything, Randy tries to stand firm even in prison and keeps his strong spirit not to give in to the censorious attempts against his music and his activism. 

Randy’s family leaves a message for the followers of this campaign: “We thank those who have helped and supported us during these years. God bless you. Thanks to you we don’t feel alone”.

Published on December 5, 2022 | Updated on July 23, 2024