Cuban-American businessman Max Álvarez concluded an in-depth interview with journalist Mario J. Pentón on Tuesday by delivering a heartfelt message to Cubans residing in Cuba. He urged them not to fear those in exile and assured them that change is on the horizon.
"Never be afraid of those of us here. Certainly, there are good and bad people, but the majority of us desire freedom for Cubans," Álvarez expressed. "We want Cubans to learn self-reliance, to understand capitalism, and to rebuild what was taken from them over six decades ago."
Álvarez, the founder and president of Sunshine Gasoline Distributors, a leading independent fuel distributor in the southeastern United States, emphasized, "We are here to help, not to exploit their situation."
Shared Vision Among Exiles
Álvarez made it clear that his perspective is widely shared among the Cuban diaspora: "Many Cubans think like I do. While exceptions exist, the majority who genuinely care about Cuba share my views."
He reserved a more personal note for those on the island dreaming of a brighter future. "To those watching who may not have had the opportunities we've had by coming to this country, know that once you have the chance, you can achieve the same or even more than I have. I'm just another proud Cuban, Spanish, and American," Álvarez added.
A Journey Marked by Tragedy
The interview also touched on Álvarez's personal journey. He arrived in the United States at age 13 in 1961 via Operation Pedro Pan, a program that relocated over 14,000 unaccompanied Cuban children between 1960 and 1962. His story is tinged with tragedy, as his older brother died when they left Cuba for Spain, causing his parents to lose both sons in one day.
Refusing to Invest Under the Current Regime
Throughout the conversation, Álvarez firmly rejected investing in Cuba while the current regime is in power. When asked about a Cuban congressman's proposal to open gas stations on the island, he replied, "Do you think I would go to Cuba to open a gas station and profit from our brothers' and sisters' misery? No."
Instead, he suggested teaching Cubans the principles of capitalism and government independence, even offering to provide free plans for building a gas station.
Political Solutions and New Opportunities
On the topic of a political solution, Álvarez was straightforward: "Cuba can be fixed with a phone call," though he cautioned, "you cannot negotiate with terrorists."
In March 2016, President Donald Trump publicly recognized him from the White House as an exemplar of Cuban-American success, noting that he was the largest gas station owner in the country.
Insights on Cuban-American Relations
What message did Max Álvarez send to Cubans on the island?
Max Álvarez encouraged Cubans not to fear exiles and assured them that change is forthcoming. He emphasized the desire for Cuban freedom and self-reliance.
Why does Álvarez refuse to invest in Cuba under the current regime?
Álvarez refuses to invest in Cuba under the current regime because he does not want to exploit the misery faced by Cubans. He believes in teaching them capitalism and independence from the government instead.