Domino Park Conversations: Reflections on Cuba, Exile, and Hope for Change

At Domino Park in Miami, a community of Cuban exiles gathers to play dominoes, adhering to a unique set of rules that fosters a space for connection among those who share a common history. Players must speak softly, avoid alcohol, don't wear flip-flops, and be Miami residents aged 55 and over. These regulations, steeped in tradition, create an environment where seasoned players engage with one another, reminiscing about their homeland and the political landscape of Cuba. On a particularly chilly January afternoon, players engaged in deep discussions, reflecting on the state of the Cuban regime and the possibility of its downfall. Flavio César Crombet, 60, launched into a debate about Castro's regime and the significant blows it faced throughout the years. His companion, Lázaro Jordás, a 79-year-old engineer, countered, arguing that the current regime under Nicolás Maduro represents the worst moment for Cuba, particularly if Venezuela ceases its oil support to the island. This somber atmosphere is juxtaposed with a nearby memorial, the Cuban Memory Park, which honors the fallen exiles from the Bay of Pigs invasion in 1961—a failed attempt to liberate Cuba from Castro's regime. Among those who felt compelled to act was Tony Costa, who at 21 years old, joined Brigade 2506 with hope of seeing Cuba liberated from communism. His experiences during the invasion and subsequent endeavors reflect the complex emotions and long-held aspirations of many exiles who have waited decades for change. Despite past failures, current sentiments indicate a possibility for change, fueled by recent events within the region. Costa expresses optimism, revealing that he believes the right leaders are now in place to pursue policies for Cuban liberation. Unfortunately, the tragic loss of the Brothers to the Rescue planes in 1996 still looms large for people like Arnaldo Iglesias, who actively participated in efforts to assist those fleeing Cuba. Iglesias, now 88, regrets not being able to join the Bay of Pigs invasion but became involved with CIA-backed operations that targeted Castro's government. He remains skeptical about the potential for lasting change, noting that while current events might signal hope, true liberation from the Castro regime is still uncertain and heavily influenced by U.S. political maneuvers. As exiles continue to discuss their shared past, historian Rafael Rojas critically examines the long-standing nature of the Cuban regime, while economist Ricardo Torres highlights the existential crises currently facing the country. The loss of the Soviet Union as an economic ally drastically changed Cuba's landscape in the 1990s, leading to severe economic contraction and hardships for its people. Years of policies left by Fidel Castro's government have left the nation in dire straits, with opposition growing during times of scarcity and unrest. The events of July 11, 2021, underscored this vulnerability, creating a belief among many that the regime's end may indeed be approaching. In this complex narrative of exiled life, Domino Park serves as a microcosm for the broader Cuban diaspora. The conversations held here—filled with nostalgia, yearning, frustration, and hope—illuminate the enduring connection to Cuba and the collective desire to witness meaningful change. For those gathered, the game of dominoes is not just a pastime; it’s a bridge between the past and a hopeful future, revealing that while the battles may be fought on many levels, the spirit of resistance and the dream of a free Cuba continue to thrive. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2