Monsignor Rolando Álvarez Bestowed with “Oswaldo Payá: Libertad y Vida” Award on the 12th Anniversary of the State Crime in Cuba

Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Monsignor Rolando Álvarez Bestowed with “Oswaldo Payá: Libertad y Vida” Award on the 12th Anniversary of the State Crime in Cuba

July 22, 2024

The Foundation for Pan-American Democracy, the Latin American Youth Network for Democracy (JuventudLAC), and Ofelia Acevedo are pleased to announce that Monsignor Rolando Álvarez, Bishop of the Diocese of Matagalpa and Estelí in Nicaragua, is the recipient of the sixth edition of the “Oswaldo Payá: Libertad y Vida” Award.

Monsignor Álvarez has been a firm and brave voice against the repression of Daniel Ortega’s regime, denouncing human rights violations and defending the most vulnerable. In 2022, he was arrested for his denunciations against the government and rejected the exile and statelessness offered in exchange for his release. This prestigious award, named after the Cuban civic leader assassinated by the dictatorship 12 years ago today, is given annually to individuals or institutions that have made valuable contributions to the defense of democracy, human rights, and freedom. Previous recipients include Luis Almagro, Secretary General of the OAS; the Democratic Initiative of Spain and the Americas (IDEA); and the European Parliament, among others. Monsignor Álvarez joins this list in recognition of his integrity and tireless dedication to promoting human rights and democratic values.

Thanksgiving Mass for the Lives of Oswaldo Payá and Harold Cepero

We remind you that today, Monday, July 22, 2024, at 8:00 PM, a thanksgiving mass will be held in honor of the lives and work of Oswaldo Payá and Harold Cepero. Details of the invitation are provided below.

Foundation for Pan-American Democracy, Board of Directors