“There Is No Racism Here”

One of the major components of Cuban racial ideology is the notion of anti-racialism. The phrases “there is no racism here” or “I am not racist” are the common responses when asked about racism or discussing one’s own beliefs. Consequently, the revolution’s noble declaration and goal of creating a racism-free country has produced a norm in which racism is an external concept. Chapter 5 argues that this norm has hindered any discussion or reflection on race and racism in Cuba such that its presence goes ignored. Additionally, the act of ignoring racism allows for negative racial stereotypes to continue to be expressed with little challenge. The chapter examines interviews with whites on their opinions regarding racism in Cuba as well as their own connection to anti-black attitudes. It also uses survey data to highlight blacks’ position on race relations in Cuba, particularly in their individual relations with whites.