Hundreds of Americans, political refugees and activists carried out a march in Washington on Monday to protest against the Cuban government and the crackdown on anti-communist demonstrators earlier this month.

Cubans from across the United States gathered outside the White House in Washington and waved ‘freedom’ signs. The protesters urged US President Joe Biden to take action against the Cuban government.

Human rights groups have accused the Cuban government of using censorship and fear tactics to repress the anti-government protests happening across the nation. The demonstrations are the largest that the country has witness since the revolution that led to Fidel Castro coming to power in 1959.

“We decided to come to get the attention of the American people,” said Carlos Rodriguez, 29, who flew to Washington from Miami to show his support.

“We need (the White House) to declare the Cuban government illegitimate,” said Elena Cruz, 32, a Florida-based realtor who left Cuba at 16 years old.

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Several protests against the regime had broken out in Cuba on July 11 resulting in food and medical shortages and economic strife.

Clashes with police left one person dead, while the ensuing crackdown targeted hundreds of others arrested and charged with contempt, public disorder, vandalism and negligent conduct in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Amid the crackdown, internet blackouts made it difficult for families to stay in touch.

Rodriguez managed to reach his relatives in Cuba, who side with protestors but are afraid to speak publicly.