Spending almost two decades in Miami offered me the incredible opportunity to observe the world created by the Cuban exile community. It all started back in 2002 when I began my visits to Little Havana, particularly to a small park known as Domino Park. Despite my limited understanding of Spanish at the time, one thing was clear — the passion with which those of Cuban descent engaged in discussions about Cuba, politics, and baseball.
At that time, I reached out to my respected colleague, Dr. Dan Dustin, and together we crafted an article titled “The Domino Effect: Mixing Politics and Leisure in Little Havana, Miami.” The impact of that period has never really left me. Recently, as I found myself back in Little Havana, I feel compelled to share my reflections on how the landscape has evolved. These thoughts result from conversations with friends and insights gained from the patrons of the local cigar shops.