CAMAGÜEY.- Last February 7th concluded the Camagüey's Culture Week, an event that, while maintaining the objective of celebrating local identity, also leaves questions about its true scope and relevance.
Since the 1st, the city has remembered its official foundation on February 2nd, 1514, when the Villa de Santa María del Puerto del Príncipe was established. However, the origin in Punta del Guincho, Nuevitas, continues to be a fact relegated to the background. This recurring oblivion leaves the feeling that the complete history of the region is not yet recognized.
The celebration has had a modest lineup. Some institutions have tried to differentiate themselves with special proposals, while others have limited their participation to repeating the same old thing with a commemorative stamp. In a context of energy shortages and crisis, many activities have gone unnoticed, and promotion has failed to attract enough public.
It is fair to recognize the effort of artists, organizers, and public who, despite blackouts of up to 15 hours a day, or more, decided to go out into the streets and participate. In a city in the dark, where every exit is a challenge, the commitment to culture has been manifested with admirable perseverance. Attending a show and then finding the way back in these conditions is a sign of resistance and collective solidarity.
The digital role has been evident, although it has also exposed its limits. The lack of guaranteed connectivity means that social networks are not always the most effective means of cultural dissemination. Posting on WhatsApp or Facebook does not ensure the desired impact, an aspect that deserves better planning in future editions.
The feeling of roots and nostalgia has been present, but largely from a distance. Many people from Camagüey have shared memories and reflections about the city on digital platforms, without being able to actively participate in the celebration. This brings to the table the need for a more inclusive and accessible cultural strategy for the local population.
One aspect that deserves more attention is culture as a driving force for transformation in public administration. During Culture Week, the focus has fallen mainly on the arts and literature, with some hints of traditions and customs. However, it is essential to reflect on the role of culture in the formation of better professionals and citizens.
Culture is not just a set of artistic expressions, but a key factor in the construction of values, ethics and social responsibility. Camagüey, as a legendary city, deserves inhabitants and officials who live up to its legacy, and that requires a deep self-examination of how much culture —or the lack of it— influences our way of managing public affairs and living together as a society.
As we close this edition, it is clear that Culture Week needs to review its priorities. If we are to celebrate the history and identity of Camagüey, it is necessary to go beyond the symbolic act and ensure that the complete memory, in all its dimensions, is part of the event. Culture should not be an occasional tribute, but a permanent commitment to the community.
Translated by Linet Acuña Quilez