Santiago de Cuba, June 18 (RHC)-- Residents in Mayarí Arriba, in the eastern province of Santiago de Cuba, are paying tribute to women's leader Vilma Espin on the 9th anniversary of her death on June 18th. Vilma Espin was a Cuban woman of great sensibility who took part in the guerrilla struggle on the Sierra Maestra Mountains.

After the 1959 triumph of the Revolution, she assumed different responsibilities, always empowering women and in defense of their right to equality in Cuba's socialist society. Vilma Espín was the founding President of the Federation of Cuban Women (FMC), a post she held until her death.

As is traditional, activities began with a pilgrimage to the Second Front Mausoleum where Vilma's remains are buried along with those of other guerrilla heroes. Other planned activities include photo exhibitions, poetry readings, cultural galas, workshops and conferences on Vilma's life and work.