Florida's Republican Senator, Rick Scott, released a video on his X account this past Saturday to pay tribute to Tony Costa, a Cuban-American entrepreneur and the president of the Foundation for Human Rights in Cuba. This gesture is part of the celebrations for Hispanic Heritage Month in the United States.
In his message, Scott characterizes Costa as someone who fled "communist Cuba" in pursuit of freedom and opportunities that were no longer available to his family on the island. Costa succeeded in establishing a new life in Florida and achieving the "American dream."
Appearing in the video, Costa expresses gratitude to the nation that welcomed him: "I am here to thank the United States for providing us refuge from the communism that took over our country," he states, before presenting himself as the president of an organization committed to "bringing democracy and prosperity to Cuba and all countries that might be under a communist takeover in Latin America."
Scott emphasizes that Costa "has been a steadfast advocate for freedom and democracy, not just for the Cuban people but for those fighting oppression throughout Latin America, including in Venezuela and Nicaragua." He concludes by saying that stories like Costa’s are "a powerful reminder of why we should never take our freedoms for granted."
The Mission of the Foundation for Human Rights in Cuba
Founded in 1992 and headquartered in Coral Gables, Florida, the Foundation for Human Rights in Cuba (FHRC) aims to strengthen Cuban civil society and promote a non-violent transition to democracy. In the video, Costa notes that the organization also collaborates with Cubans on the island "to try to alleviate some of the challenges and shortages they are experiencing."
The FHRC has gained visibility in recent years for documenting alleged repressors of the Cuban regime who have entered the United States. According to the latest data, over 1,100 such cases have been identified since 2017, with more than 130 reportedly arriving on American soil.
Costa's Legacy and Involvement
Before leading the FHRC, Costa served as the director of the Cuban American National Foundation (CANF), which is one of the most influential Cuban exile organizations founded in 1981 by Jorge Mas Canosa.
Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated annually from September 15 to October 15 in the United States. Scott co-sponsored a Senate resolution that officially recognized the observance in 2026, which was unanimously approved on September 22.
Rick Scott's Support for Cuban Exiles
Senator Scott is notably active in supporting the Cuban exile cause. In April of this year, he took part in the "United for Cuba" event in Miami, where he called for the imprisonment of Miguel Díaz-Canel and Raúl Castro.
Recently, Scott reiterated his stance with a statement summarizing his vision: "If socialism worked, everyone would want to move to Havana."
Costa concluded his remarks by directly acknowledging the senator: "We want to especially thank Senator Scott for always being there when we need the support of the United States. We are glad to call him our friend."
Key Questions About Tony Costa and Cuban Heritage Advocacy
Who is Tony Costa?
Tony Costa is a Cuban-American entrepreneur and the president of the Foundation for Human Rights in Cuba, known for his advocacy for democracy and freedom in Cuba and other Latin American countries.
What does the Foundation for Human Rights in Cuba do?
The Foundation for Human Rights in Cuba aims to empower Cuban civil society and support a peaceful transition to democracy. It also documents cases of alleged repressors of the Cuban regime who have entered the United States.
What is Rick Scott's involvement with Cuban exiles?
Rick Scott is a vocal supporter of the Cuban exile community, participating in events like "United for Cuba" and advocating for actions against the Cuban regime's leaders.