FACE members are deeply saddened by the passing of one of the most prominent Cuban exiles, one who always stood firmly for the freedom of the Cuban people as a member of the Congressional Cuba Democracy Caucus.

First a member of the Florida legislature and senate, he was the first representative for the new Florida District 21 where he served for 18 years. He achieved passage of two important laws: the U.S. Cuban Liberty and Democratic Solidarity (LIBERTAD) Act of 1996, and the Nicaraguan Adjustment and Central American Relief Act of 1997. These two laws exemplified his commitment to freedom as well as to humanity.

As a young man he was a member of Abdala, a student organization that was diametrically opposed to the Communist dictatorship in Cuba. And he never veered from his beliefs, becoming a champion of exiles and other oppressed people that he served with constant advocacy. He will be remembered not only in Miami but in a free Cuba as well. He is survived by his widow Cristina, son Daniel and brothers Mario, José and Rafael. May he rest in peace.