'Blockade is suffocating us': Cubans use Havana marathon to protest US sanctions

Cuba's largest international marathon, the Marabana race, turned into a powerful protest against U.S. sanctions and economic sanctions during its November run through Havana. With about 3,000 participants, runners carried signs displaying messages such as "Cuba is not a threat; the blockade is." The race, which passed through famous sites like the Paseo del Prado and the Capitol building, saw family participation and spectators cheering from the sidelines.

Yuraldi Cava, a state employee, told the Associated Press that the blockade was "suffocating the Cuban people." The economic crisis caused by the U.S. embargo, which has been in place since 1960, led to fuel shortages that caused power outages and disrupted daily life. Organizers struggled to hold the event amid the country's economic challenges, with some international sponsors pulling out.

Despite these obstacles, the marathon proceeded, drawing international participants who wore red-and-white shirts with the message "Cuba is not alone." This show of solidarity highlighted the ongoing struggle for change in Cuba.