A beloved Cuban eatery, "La Habana Vieja," located in Springfield, Missouri, has closed its doors as of Wednesday, May 14, after nearly four years of serving the community. This closure followed the revocation of work permits for several of its Cuban employees, a result of recent federal actions under the administration of Donald Trump.
In a heartfelt letter shared on the restaurant's official Facebook page on May 13, management explained that the withdrawal of these legal work permits left the affected workers with no choice but to leave their jobs and, in some cases, the United States altogether. "Our kitchen and bar were primarily staffed by hardworking Cubans striving for their piece of the 'American Dream.' However, in recent days, our government has chosen to revoke their ability to work, forcing them to leave La Habana Vieja and the U.S.," stated the management team, consisting of Ted Tabor, Freddie Flores, and Hope Choate.
A Final Farewell
The last legal day of work for the employees was Wednesday, May 14. That same day marked the final dinner service at the restaurant, culminating in its permanent closure. "We will miss your support for this restaurant," concluded their emotional farewell.
The closing night was an emotional affair, as described by Freddie Flores, one of the managers, in a personal Facebook message. He and his wife, Geydi “La Cubana,” expressed their gratitude for the overwhelming love and support from the large crowd of friends and supporters who attended the farewell event, as well as the countless heartfelt messages received on Facebook and in person.
Gratitude and Humanitarian Efforts
Flores also took the opportunity to commend the Tabor family, the founding partners of the restaurant, for their humanitarian efforts. They not only funded the project from its inception, including purchasing the building and necessary supplies, but also facilitated travel, housing, transportation, and basic resources for the Cuban employees.
"Faced with imminent deportation, the Tabors even purchased a house in Cuba for our friends, ensuring their well-being and providing resources for their survival," Flores wrote.
Background on the Immigration Decision
The current administration has rescinded work permits issued under the CBP One program, an initiative introduced during Joe Biden's presidency (2021-2025) allowing migrants from countries like Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela to enter the United States legally through scheduled border appointments. These permits were linked to a "parole" status granting temporary residence and the ability to work legally.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) began notifying these migrants about the revocation of their legal status and the cancellation of their work permits, urging them to voluntarily leave the country by April 24. Those who fail to comply may face expedited deportation proceedings.
The closure of La Habana Vieja has resonated strongly in Springfield. Steve Pokin, a journalist for the local Springfield Daily Citizen, published a column detailing the impact of the closure and reminiscing about the restaurant's history on Commercial Street. Pokin emphasized the owners' dedication to providing an authentic Cuban experience in a warm, family-friendly environment.
La Habana Vieja was established with the aim of employing newly arrived Cuban migrants, many of whom were asylum seekers fleeing repression on the island. The blend of culinary tradition, human warmth, and Caribbean flavor made the restaurant a cherished spot within the local community. "This place offered more than food: it was music, history, and a cultural bridge between Cuba and Missouri," noted a regular customer in Pokin's article.
Looking Ahead
Despite the closure, the owners expressed their intention to continue supporting the affected workers and did not rule out a possible reopening if legal conditions change in the future. For now, the story of La Habana Vieja adds to a series of narratives illustrating how immigration policy decisions can impact not only individuals but also the businesses and communities that rely on them.
Understanding the Impact of Immigration Policies on Local Businesses
What led to the closure of La Habana Vieja in Springfield?
La Habana Vieja closed due to the revocation of work permits for several Cuban employees, a decision stemming from federal immigration policy changes.
How did the Tabor family support the Cuban employees?
The Tabor family funded the restaurant's inception, and provided travel, housing, and resources for the Cuban employees, even purchasing a house in Cuba for those facing deportation.
What was the community's reaction to the restaurant's closure?
The closure had a significant impact on the Springfield community, as the restaurant was known for its authentic Cuban experience and strong community ties.