In this edition: Cuban authorities thwart an open mic free speech demonstration; retail chain Target caught up in fresh controversy; and fireworks over Manila to bring in the New Year. CUBA: REGIME CRACKDOWN AGAINST PERFORMANCEARTIST Performance artist Tania Bruguera was planning to stage a public event last week to urge fellow Cubans to openly voice their desire for a new government. She started with an online campaign, run under the #yotambienexijo hashtag, meaning “I also demand”, and then set about organizing the open microphone event in central Havana, hoping to give citizens a platform where they could discuss their views on Cuba`s future. The authorities were none too pleased however, the artist was arrested and of course the free-speech demonstration didn’t go ahead. But this has not silenced Twitter users; they continue to post under the hashtag, saying they want to see changes within the Cuban regime, and they want greater freedom … asking for, amongst other things, more trade union rights and the implementation of free and fair elections. Some are using lyrics and music as a vehicle to express their political views. Rapper Normi Queen for example, who grew up in Cuba but has since moved to Finland, has penned this blistering critique of the Cuban authorities. Her song has been shared over 11 000 times on Facebook. As we can see here, activists have also been busy campaigning on behalf of Tania Bruguera, posting messages of solidarity and signing this petition demanding her release. The Cuban authorities did eventually let her go on Saturday, but have held on to her passport… TARGET ACCUSED OF WHITEWHASHING AD American retail chain Target is at the center of lively debate online. Its new... Go on reading on our web site. Visit our website: http://www.france24.com
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