Reply #61: A Brand New Culture

[KharmaTrain]

A media friend in Miami long ago pointed to the differences in the Cuban community. Some here have pointed out that the most rabid anti-Castro Cubans are Repugicans but that they represent an "Old Little Havana" that has long dominated Miami politics but is fading in numbers and real influence.

Most second generation Florida Cubans identify themselves as citizens of the U.S. and Americans. While they're sympathetic to their parents hatred of Castro, they have no point of reference. Most have never seen Cuba and, like many other Hispanics, meld into American society. They identify with "American culture", not Cuban. They don't see Castro as a threat, just a nusance.

It's also been pointed out here that there's been a surge among younger Cubans to register as Democrats. Even some former Repugnicans have shifted as the GOOP pretty much has neglected them over the past several years. The embargoes haven't brought Castro down and they see how its hurt not only the people of Cuba, but the loss of a potential neaby trading partner across the Florida straights.

Maybe someday soon we'll see this change. I'd love to visit Cuba now...just to experience what it's like in Castro's last days...then return in a couple years and see how its changed.