Against all odds, the 2nd International Political Humor Biennial has begun in Havana. From its first exhibits, the conceptual solidity of a proposal that bets on graphic humor as a tool for critically analyzing some of the most complex phenomena of the contemporary world is evident.

Diversity constitutes one of the main strengths of the event. Very different styles, techniques, and visual languages coexist, articulated by a common concern: examining the mechanisms through which cultural models, consumption patterns, and forms of symbolic domination are imposed.

During the opening, Abel Prieto, president of Casa de las Américas, highlighted the significance of an event of these characteristics taking place in the country's current context.

"This is a victory in very complex times for the nation," he affirmed. In his view, holding an International Political Humor Biennial demonstrates that Cuba is far from the image of a "failed state" that some try to project.

"These are very difficult times, and we need intelligent humor in the face of the onslaught of an arrogant fascism that has no sense of humor. (U.S. President) Donald Trump, for example, has no sense of humor whatsoever."

A tour of the central exhibition reveals reflections on such diverse issues as racism, war, the commodification of culture, social exclusion, and attempts to standardize identities and ways of thinking. These are works that denounce but also invite us to imagine alternatives. Criticism is accompanied by a constant defense of essential values for human coexistence.

Ismael Lema, a graphic humorist and member of both the Biennial's jury and organizing committee, recognized the high quality of the works submitted to the competition. According to him, the selection of awards was particularly complex due to the level of the works chosen for the exhibition.

Lema also highlighted the thematic breadth of the call. The issue of cultural colonization, he noted, allowed for multiple readings and recreations from very diverse contexts and sensibilities. That richness of perspectives is perceived throughout the exhibition, where authors from different regions of the world dialogue through images that appeal to both the intelligence and sensitivity of the viewer.

The selected works also demonstrate a notable artistic level. Each piece reveals rigor in conception and execution, confirming the capacity of graphic humor to achieve high levels of aesthetic refinement. The idea that this manifestation is a lesser category within the visual arts was left behind long ago. The exhibition offers ample proof to the contrary, through images of great expressive force and careful conceptual construction.

During the inauguration, Abel Prieto also insisted on the importance of humor as a tool for cultural resistance. "We need much more humor, intelligent humor, in these times to face the onslaught of the empire," he expressed.

The Biennial's activities will continue over the coming days in various spaces in Havana and San Antonio de los Baños. It will be an opportunity to encounter humor that provokes smiles but also stimulates reflection, because, as Abel Prieto recalled, humor can equally be an act of thought.

Translated by Sergio A. Paneque Díaz / CubaSí Translation Staff