Tax Collector Dariel Fernandez Joins Community on Calle Ocho to Mark Fifth Anniversary of Historic July 11 Protests

Miami-Dade County Tax Collector Dariel Fernandez joined members of the Cuban exile community, local leaders, and advocates for freedom on Calle Ocho to commemorate the fifth anniversary of the historic protests of July 11, 2021, when thousands of Cubans took to the streets demanding liberty, democracy, and an end to the communist and socialist dictatorship that has oppressed the island for more than six decades.

The gathering honored the courage of those who risked their safety to speak out against repression and demand a better future for Cuba. It also served as a solemn reminder of the many political prisoners who remain behind bars simply for exercising their fundamental rights and calling for freedom.

“Five years later, the message remains the same: the Cuban people deserve freedom, free elections, respect for human rights, and the opportunity to determine their own future without fear,” said Tax Collector Dariel Fernandez. “We remember those who bravely raised their voices on July 11, and we stand with every political prisoner and every family that continues to suffer under the dictatorship.”

Fernandez addressed the community and reaffirmed his commitment to continuing to denounce the abuses of the regime and defend the cause of the Cuban people. He emphasized that the struggle for freedom cannot be forgotten and that those living in exile have a responsibility to continue raising awareness about the reality facing the island.

“The courage shown by the Cuban people on July 11 inspired the world,” Fernandez added. “Their calls for freedom were not only a rejection of dictatorship, but also a demand for dignity, opportunity, and a future in which families are no longer separated by fear and repression. We must continue raising our voices until Cuba is finally free.”

The event brought together different generations of Cubans and Cuban Americans, as well as supporters of democracy, in a shared call for justice. Fernandez thanked everyone in attendance and recognized the organizers for creating a space to remember, reflect, and reaffirm the community’s commitment to a free Cuba.

“Every political prisoner must be released, every separated family must have the opportunity to reunite, and the Cuban people must be allowed to live without fear,” Fernandez concluded. “The cause of freedom remains alive, and we will never stop standing with the people of Cuba. Patria y Vida, Viva Cuba Libre!.”