A contingent of Cuban exiles gathered this past Sunday outside the headquarters of a well-known travel and shipping agency to Cuba, voicing allegations about the company's purported connections to the Cuban regime and calling for the release of political prisoners on the island.
The demonstration took place at the main office of Cubamax Travel in Hialeah, Florida. Protesters claim that the agency provided batons and other resources to the Cuban state, which were allegedly used to suppress the July 11, 2021 protests.
Founded in 2001, Cubamax Travel operates 13 branches throughout Florida. Although no official sanctions or U.S. government confirmations have been issued regarding the accusations, opposition from the exile community has grown in recent months.
Suspension of Remittances and Ties to Military Conglomerate
In April, Cubamax halted its remittance services to Cuba, citing a "restructuring process related to companies handling money distribution on the island." The company clarified that this decision was not influenced by any specific U.S. legislation.
Cubamax had been processing remittances via Orbit S.A., an entity linked to the military conglomerate GAESA, which was sanctioned by the U.S. government in late January. Orbit was added to the State Department's restricted list, which bans transactions with firms tied to Cuba's military and security apparatus.
Protesters Demand Greater Oversight
Despite being marketed as an independent company, Orbit utilized the financial infrastructure of CIMEX and shared operational data with the entity, making it part of the military-controlled business network.
During the Hialeah protest, demonstrators reiterated that remittances and services through agencies like Cubamax ultimately benefit the regime, urging U.S. authorities to conduct more thorough investigations.
As of now, Cubamax Travel has not released an official statement addressing the protests or the allegations.
FAQs on the Cuban Exile Protest in Hialeah
What were the Cuban exiles protesting against in Hialeah?
The Cuban exiles were protesting against Cubamax Travel, alleging its connections with the Cuban regime and demanding the release of political prisoners.
What actions has Cubamax Travel taken regarding remittances to Cuba?
Cubamax Travel suspended its remittance services to Cuba in April, citing a restructuring process related to money distribution companies on the island.
Has the U.S. government confirmed the allegations against Cubamax Travel?
The U.S. government has not confirmed the allegations against Cubamax Travel, nor has it imposed any official sanctions.