safety
Cuban exiles look to opposition figure Rosa María Payá as hopes for change grow
By Kevin Boulandier at WSVN 7 News
· July 17, 2026
· 3 min read
Despite the economic and political crisis in Cuba, some exiles in Miami remain hopeful about the future of their homeland as they say current conditions could lead to a positive, democratic change. In Miami’s Calle Ocho section, the sights, sounds, and smells serve as a reminder of the Cuba many exi
Key takeaway “The best way for me to describe it — it smells like Cuba,” said area resident Orlando Cabrera of Eighth Street.
Why this matters in The Miami
The growing hopes for democratic change in Cuba have significant implications for Miami's large Cuban exile community. As a hub for Latin American and Caribbean communities, Miami has long been a center for activism and advocacy for human rights in Cuba. Rosa María Payá's efforts, including her work with Cuba Decide, have resonated with many in the community who see her as a potential leader in a future democratic Cuba. The fact that Payá is working with her team in South Florida to support activists in Cuba highlights the importance of the city as a base for operations and fundraising for Cuban opposition groups. With its strong ties to the island nation, Miami is likely to play a key role in any future transition to democracy in Cuba, and Payá's work may have a significant impact on the city's Cuban community and its relations with the island.
About this story
Original reporting by WSVN 7 News . The Miami surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit WSVN 7 News . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: safety ·
Published: July 17, 2026 ·
Source: WSVN 7 News ·
Reading time: 3 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? Despite the economic and political crisis in Cuba, some exiles in Miami remain hopeful about the future of their homeland as they say current conditions could lead to a positive, democratic change. In Miami’s Calle Ocho section, the sights, sounds, and smells serve as a reminder of the Cuba many exi
When was this published? This article was first published on July 17, 2026 by WSVN 7 News and curated for The Miami readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Kevin Boulandier at WSVN 7 News. To learn more about how The Miami selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more safety coverage from The Miami, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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