De AQUÍ Pa’l Cielo

Chapter 2 is a theoretical examination of black consciousness in Cuba and the dialogue that comes out of black communities, which often contradicts dominant ideologies. The two forms of ideological critique, formal and informal, are discussed as equally important to the study of black consciousness in Cuba. The chapter highlights everyday conversations and experiences with discrimination as key components of black consciousness. Despite the lack of institutions and networks that support dialogue and agency, blacks have managed, both formally and informally, to challenge the rhetoric from above and sustain a crucial narrative about racism in Cuba from the black perspective. There is an element of solidarity and group identity that stems from blacks’ marginal position not only in Cuba, but also throughout the Americas.