Secretary of State Marco Rubio delivered remarks at the Lech Walesa Solidarity Prize Awards Ceremony, highlighting the ongoing challenges posed by communism and honoring Cuban activist Berta Soler for her continued resistance against political oppression.
Rubio began by noting the historic nature of the event’s venue and its longstanding association with gatherings focused on freedom and liberty. He reflected on how, despite communism's failures both economically and socially, it continues to exist in various parts of the world. "It’s hard to believe, as you were walking through the examples of Lech Walesa and the Polish experience, that communism is still a scourge," Rubio said.
He spoke about his own experiences, stating he has never lived under an oppressive regime but acknowledged those who have faced such conditions. Rubio emphasized admiration for Berta Soler’s decision to remain in Cuba despite significant hardships. "What has always struck me about Berta Soler and those who join her is that she has refused to leave...her refusal to continue to live under the conditions that she lives under, which are incredibly oppressive, that deny her the basic rights, including the right to go to church every Sunday, is a source of incredible admiration for all of us," he said.
Rubio described Soler as someone whose activism was not politically motivated initially but stemmed from witnessing injustice and choosing peaceful action. He noted: "Her willingness to step forward because she identified and saw oppression...and was willing not just to raise her voice to criticize it but to actually take action against it in a peaceful way has defined the rest of her life."
He also recognized those supporting Soler’s efforts: "We’re so grateful for your support to her now. And not just the prize that comes with it...but just saying the name and telling the story in front of these cameras...is an incredible sign."
Addressing broader themes, Rubio stated: "Freedom is not actually a natural human instinct...almost the entirety of human history has been defined by oppression." He pointed out that modern concepts like freedom of speech or religion are relatively new in human history.
Rubio highlighted Poland's role as an ally in promoting liberty worldwide. He shared: "Your government in Poland has been an extraordinary ally in the cause of liberty and freedom...there is none in the world that's been more helpful, more steadfast, and more aligned with us, including in Cuba, than the Government of Poland."
He concluded by expressing gratitude for Poland’s partnership: "Of all the nations in the world who have overcome the tyranny of communism, [Poland] most certainly hasn’t forgotten what it took to overcome it and have raised their voice and taken action."
The ceremony took place with participation from community members familiar with issues related to Cuba as well as representatives from allied countries.
