If you have a family member deprived of their liberty in Cuba, it is crucial that you know how to protect their health and help them safely document any human rights violations. Here are some practical recommendations you can share with them to minimize the risk of reprisals:
1. Keep a daily health log
– Discreetly record your symptoms: Carry a notebook or piece of paper to note any new symptoms and changes in your physical or mental condition. Use neutral language to avoid raising suspicion.
– Important details: Include the date and time of each entry, but keep the log in a safe and well hidden place.
2. Seek medical attention
– Verbal requests: Ask for medical attention directly from the guards or prison staff. Mentally note the date, time, and who you made the request to.
– Record medical visits: Mentally note the date, time, name of the professional, diagnosis, and treatment received. Transfer this information to your written record only when it is safe to do so.
3. Communication with family members
– Phone calls: During calls to your family members, describe your symptoms and any health problems clearly and in detail. Ask your family members to keep a record of these calls.
– Family visits: During visits, keep your family informed about your health status and the care you are receiving. Ask them to note down any important details.
4. Send information securely
– Letters: If you decide to send letters, do so through family members or trusted individuals. Do not include sensitive details that could jeopardize your safety.
– Coded information: Use coded or indirect language to communicate serious health problems or medical negligence, so that only your family members understand the message.
5. Discreet collaboration with other inmates
– Mutual support: Form a support group with other trusted inmates, but keep these interactions discreet to avoid retaliation.
– Testimonies: If other inmates are willing, ask them to memorize details about your situation so they can testify if necessary, without leaving written records.
6. Handling of evidence
– Physical evidence: If you have expired or unsuitable medications, inform your family members during calls or visits, describing the problem in detail.
– Destruction of evidence: Keep your written records in a very secure place and consider destroying them if there is a risk of them being discovered during a search.
7. Reporting strategies
– Inform family members: Your family members should be prepared to report any negligence to human rights organizations or external authorities, using the information you have provided them.
– Drafting complaints: If you decide to write a formal letter, do so with the help of a family member or lawyer outside of prison, and ensure that it is delivered directly to the relevant authorities.
8. Family members: Voice and support for inmates
– Communication log: Family members should keep a detailed record of all calls and visits, noting any symptoms or health problems you report.
– External complaint: Family members can contact human rights organizations and relevant authorities to report any rights violations based on the information you provide them.
– Emotional support: Maintain frequent and open communication with your family members to receive emotional support and advice on how to handle your situation in prison.
Remember: Taking an active and committed role can make a huge difference in your loved one's life and in protecting their rights. Keep a detailed record of all communications, report any rights violations, and provide the emotional support your family member needs to cope with the difficult conditions in prison.
Don't hesitate to contact human rights organizations to report any rights violations you may identify. Furthermore, maintain constant communication to provide the necessary emotional support and stay informed about how to handle the situation. Your involvement can make a significant difference in your family member's life and in protecting their rights.