Covering The Fidel Coverage: Reactions From Havana And Its Male Models

The New York Times is the 27th news outlet today to let us know that the world’s reaction to Fidel Castro’s resignation is “muted” (read: non-existent.) Even in Havana.

The consensus from dissidents, loyal Fidelistas and everyone in between seemed to be: The struggle of everyday life will go on.

No! Democracy and a Red Lobster on every corner is yours, Cuba, if you will only choose this moment to take your stand. Or at least secretly high five each other?

What emotion the announcement did elicit was on the sly, under the watchful eye of a heavy police presence in the streets. One Havana man said he saw people giving high fives to one another as they passed by and openly smiling at the news. “People feel liberated,” said the man, identifying himself only as Ernesto.

That’s the Cuban spirit we know, Ernesto. But enough about the ugly people. One reporter went the extra mile to find out how Cuba’s male models are reacting to the news:

Fidel stepping down? That’s impossible,” Dayron Clavellon, a 20-year-old model, told Agence France-Presse, returning home on Tuesday morning after a night out with his friends in Havana’s club district.

“We knew this was going to happen one day,” Mr. Clavellon said. “But now that it’s a reality, it’s just hitting us.”

It’s just hitting us that Cuba has male models. One of them pictured above. Not Dayron, but who cares, really?

On Havana’s Streets, Few Expect Much Change [New York Times]
[Image, you're welcome]