"In November last year, I travelled to Cuba to perform at the 15th edition of the Havana Biennial. I was invited out to perform a series of concerts as part of an international delegation of musicians and artists and took part as the only Scottish and British musician on the delegation as well as at the Biennial – a privilege that was recognised in the Scottish Parliament.

My participation was supported by different sponsors including individuals, trade unions and the Peace & Justice Project – I am incredibly grateful to The Project for sponsoring my trip to Cuba. This enabled me to participate, share my music and experiences with artists from around the world in Havana. This was a profound and unique opportunity, and it highlighted the power of music and art even amid immense the challenges the US blockade imposes on Cuba.

Furthermore, the Biennial demonstrated that passion for art and democratic access to culture endure regardless of the social and economic conditions a country faces. In Cuba, where the cruel sanctions and blockade continues to stifle daily life, artists and musicians still create and perform with resilience and energy that is eye-catching and engaging.

Their determination and commitment to cultural production in these conditions as well as the size of the audiences attending shows and exhibitions is a lesson for activists and campaigners in Britain: we must engage more deeply with arts and culture as methods for community building, social change and expression, particularly in the face of disinformation and problems of alienation that permeate through our society.

Now, with Donald Trump back as U.S. President, Cuba faces renewed threats to its development and sovereignty. While Biden’s decision to remove Cuba from the State Sponsor of Terrorism List* was step forward, the blockade remains a devastating obstacle to everyday life in Cuba. We must continue or solidarity with Cuba, pressuring the U.S. to abide by international law and end this unjust policy once and for all.

The Biennial reminded me of the power of art to bring people together as well as the importance of solidarity across borders. We must advocate for a world where art, justice, and democracy can flourish.

¡Cuba Sí, bloqueo no!"

CALUM BAIRD

*Donald Trump has subsequently reinstated Cuba on SST List