The Order of the 17th of May (Orden 17 de Mayo) is a distinguished Cuban honor established on May 24, 1989, under Decree-Law No. 112. This award recognizes exceptional contributions to Cuba’s agricultural sector and the advancement of its national economy, honoring individuals whose dedication and professional achievements align with the principles of the Cuban Revolution.
The Order of the 17th of May highlights Cuba’s recognition of agriculture as a vital component of its national identity and economic sustainability. By honoring those who excel in this sector, the award emphasizes the role of innovation, dedication, and solidarity in achieving food security and economic independence.
This order also serves as a tribute to the struggles of the Cuban peasantry, celebrating the legacy of Niceto Pérez and the collective efforts to create a more just and equitable society. It extends beyond national borders to recognize foreign individuals whose contributions to agriculture embody the ideals of international solidarity and cooperation.
The Order of the 17th of May Criteria
The Order of the 17th of May is conferred upon Cuban and foreign citizens who have demonstrated:
- Extraordinary merit in agriculture: Making significant contributions to the development, innovation, and productivity of Cuba’s agricultural sector.
- Support for the national economy: Playing a key role in advancing agricultural practices that bolster the economic well-being of the country.
- An exemplary professional career: Demonstrating outstanding expertise, commitment, and leadership in agricultural fields or related disciplines.
- Alignment with revolutionary ideals: Maintaining an attitude and conduct consistent with the values of social justice, equality, and the goals of the Revolution.
Historical Context: The Legacy of May 17
The order commemorates the assassination of Niceto Pérez on May 17, 1946, a revolutionary leader and advocate for the Cuban peasantry. Pérez was a staunch defender of farmers’ rights, actively resisting evictions and exploitation by landowners. His murder by members of the Rural Guard became a symbol of the struggle against oppression and the fight for land reform.
May 17 was later declared National Farmers’ Day in Cuba, underscoring the importance of the agricultural sector in the nation’s history and its role in the Revolution. The date also marks the signing of the Agrarian Reform Law in 1959, a cornerstone of revolutionary policy that redistributed land to the Cuban people and dismantled the exploitative systems of the past.
