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María Elvira Reflects on White House Visit and Her Parents' Escape: "They Fled Castro's Regime with Just Five Dollars"

Wednesday, February 5, 2025 by Sophia Martinez

María Elvira Reflects on White House Visit and Her Parents' Escape: "They Fled Castro's Regime with Just Five Dollars"
María Elvira Salazar at the White House - Image by © X/ María Elvira Salazar

Cuban-American Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar recently commemorated her visit to the White House by sharing an emotional tribute to her parents, who left Cuba with minimal resources in pursuit of freedom. "My parents fled Castro's regime and arrived in the United States with just five dollars and a strong desire for liberty," Salazar expressed on her social media account, X.

Accompanied by a photograph capturing her presence at the official residence and workplace of the U.S. President, the congresswoman conveyed that she carried with her "hope for tomorrow, for them and for all who believe in the American Dream."

Acknowledging the Florida Panthers

Salazar attended the White House ceremony honoring the Florida Panthers, a team from the National Hockey League (NHL), recognized for their performance in the last season and their participation in the Stanley Cup finals. The Panthers accepted an invitation from President Donald Trump to celebrate during a ceremony in the East Room of the White House before heading to the Oval Office for photographs.

Advocating for Cuban Freedom

Currently representing Florida's 27th district, Salazar has been a steadfast critic of the Cuban government, advocating for stronger sanctions against the Castro regime. Elected to Congress in 2020 after defeating Democrat Donna Shalala, she has since been re-elected in 2022 and 2024, retaining her seat in the House of Representatives.

As a congresswoman, Salazar has focused her efforts on issues such as the economy, immigration reform, and the battle against socialism, both domestically and internationally. She has been a vocal advocate on matters concerning Cuba and the Cuban-American community.

Commitment to Cuban Rights

Salazar has championed granting residency to Cuban immigrants using the I-220A form under the Cuban Adjustment Act and has celebrated the release of Cuban dissidents, such as José Daniel Ferrer, emphasizing her commitment to human rights on the island.

On a personal note, in August 2022, she married Lester Woerner, an American businessman from Alabama.

Frequently Asked Questions about María Elvira Salazar's Advocacy

What did María Elvira Salazar commemorate during her White House visit?

María Elvira Salazar commemorated her parents' escape from Cuba with just five dollars, highlighting their pursuit of freedom and the American Dream.

How has María Elvira Salazar contributed to the Cuban-American community?

Salazar has advocated for more stringent sanctions against the Cuban regime, championed residency for Cuban immigrants, and celebrated the release of Cuban dissidents, demonstrating her commitment to human rights.

Which team did Salazar honor during her White House visit?

María Elvira Salazar attended a White House ceremony honoring the Florida Panthers for their achievements in the NHL season and their Stanley Cup finals participation.

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