In Miami, a statue honoring José Martí, a pivotal figure in Cuba’s fight for independence, was found vandalized, inciting a significant response from local political figures. The bust, located outside the Municipalities of Cuba in Exile, was discovered lying on the ground, having been forcibly removed from its pedestal.
Photos shared by the organization and Republican U.S. Representative Carlos A. Giménez depicted not only the fallen statue but also damage to the monument itself, underscoring the severity of the vandalism.
The incident was reported to Miami police at around 10:17 a.m. on Thursday, but further details from law enforcement regarding the act of vandalism remain scarce.
In a statement, Municipalities of Cuba in Exile characterized the attack as a “profound act of hatred” directed at both their organization and the broader Cuban exile community, which has been established since 1963. This vandalism highlights tensions within the community and the challenges faced by patriotic organizations dedicated to preserving Cuban heritage and freedom.
Vandalism of José Martí Statue in Miami Sparks Outrage Among Cuban Exiles and Local Leaders
Giménez condemned the act on social media, describing it as a “pathetic, hateful attack” against the Cuban exile community, and demanded that the responsible parties be held accountable. His remarks reflect the widespread sentiment among the community regarding the significance of Martí’s legacy and the insult posed by such vandalism.
Simón Sánchez, the president of the Municipalities of Cuba in Exile, echoed these feelings, expressing sadness and disbelief that a statue commemorating a defender of freedom could be targeted in this manner.
Despite the unfortunate incident, Sánchez conveyed gratitude for the outpouring of support from the community, media, and local politicians. He noted that offers of assistance for the statue’s restoration have been received, reinforcing a sense of unity and resilience among Cuban exiles. This collective support serves as a testament to the values that Martí represented and the commitment to honor his contributions to Cuba’s history.
The organization announced plans to repair the monument in the coming days, but the call for justice remains a priority. Sánchez emphasized the need to address the underlying issues that led to this act of vandalism, pointing to the existence of individuals who oppose the principles of freedom within the community.
His comments highlight the ongoing struggle for Cuban exiles to safeguard their heritage and promote the ideals of liberty that Martí fought for, ensuring that such acts of hatred do not undermine their mission.
