The Cuban Memorial started eight years ago, and each year organizers of the event would set up the memorial for a three-day time period at Tamiami Park for residents to visit and pay their respects. Over 10,000 crosses are placed together, with each victim's name, date, and place of death included. In addition, another larger cross is displayed to represent the victims who remain unaccounted.  Commissioner Martinez, a supporter of the annual event, was instrumental in finding a permanent site for the memorial.

"Thousands of Miami-Dade residents have visited the Cuban Memorial over the years to grieve for loved ones who have lost their lives in Fidel Castro's regime," said Commissioner Martinez. "Now, the monument will remain at Tamiami Park indefinitely as a reminder of our good fortune to live in a free country, and to continue the struggle for a democratic Cuban government."  

"This monument is about remembering the victims, and how we as Cubans remain a nation united in grief," said Emilio Solernou, organizer of the Cuban Memorial. 

"This monument will be a great permanent addition to Tamiami Park which has been the host site of the temporary memorial every year since its inception," said Jack Kardys, Director of Miami-Dade Parks.   

More information on the Cuban Memorial can be found online at www.memorialcubano.org or by calling 786-621-7505.