Welcome back, First Gens! As we enter the last week of October, we conclude our discussion on this month’s theme, the first-gen immigration journey, with another solo episode with your favorite First Gen Madrina. This week, I share a personal story about my family’s immigration journey from Cuba to the United States. This story may sound familiar to some of you, or may be completely different, but I hope it will resonate with you in some ways no matter what.
My parents arrived in the late 60s and early 70s through what was known as the Freedom Flights. This period followed Fidel Castro’s rise to power in 1959, which brought severe restrictions and the confiscation of personal properties. Like many Cubans, my family, were and continue to be anti-communist. They realized that staying would limit their potential and opportunities. They left everything behind, carrying only the clothes on their backs, driven by hope and determination.
The First-Gen Immigration Journey
The Freedom Flights, operated by Pan American World Airways, were a lifeline for thousands of Cubans. Between 1965 and 1973, these flights brought around 300,000 Cubans to the United States. Upon arrival, refugees were processed at La Casa de la Libertad, or the Freedom Tower, near Miami International Airport. They received essential medical services and aid, thanks to the Cuban Adjustment Act of 1966, which provided a streamlined path to permanent residency.
The support of the United States helped my family to start fresh, but we know not all immigration stories are the same. Many Cubans risked their lives on makeshift rafts, seeking a better future. One of my cousins was lost at sea for weeks before finding safety. The Mariel Boatlift of 1980 saw 125,000 Cubans flee to the US, overwhelming the Coast Guard with overcrowded boats.
Patria y Vida
Today, Cuba still suffers under a communist regime. Access to food, water, and medical supplies is severely limited. Many Cubans survive on what their relatives abroad can send. Despite claims of free healthcare, there are no medications or supplies available. The Cuban salary can barely meet basic needs, and freedom of speech remains non-existent. My heart aches for my family and all Cubans on the island, and I hope for a free Cuba, one where basic human rights are respected and her people can choose their leaders.
I share this story with you because it is important to know the stories of our families and how we got to where we are today. I encourage everyone to speak with their families about their journeys. These conversations preserve our heritage and honor the sacrifices made. My memories of talking to my grandparents and parents about Cuba is precious, and it’s my goal to keep them alive.
The First Gen Madrina
If you are a University, College, Company or Organization, The First Gen Madrina offers workshops on a variety of topics (such as imposter syndrome, time management, managing burnout, building a self-care plan, etc..), custom built mentorship programs as well as customized services tailored to the needs of the client.
Join Sara, The First Gen Madrina, for individual coaching and/or group coaching. The journey can often feel lonely but that does not mean that you are alone! Check out the Our Services tab on our website for more information! http://thefirstgenmadrina.com
In order to follow along, remember to rate, review, and subscribe to The First Gen Madrina Podcast to stay connected. Also, follow on instagram and LinkedIn @thefirstgenmadrina and Sara Diaz, LCSW. Sara acknowledges that the term first gen can be fluid, so The First Gen Madrina is committed to supporting all first gens! This isn’t just about breaking barriers—it’s about providing unwavering support that propels individuals to embrace life’s challenges and triumphs.
In conclusion, stay tuned to meet amazing first-generation guests for the podcast, endless topics related to the first-gen experience and transformational coaching! Sara is your go to Madrina for all things first gen!
¡Hasta pronto!
Sara, The First Gen Madrina
