Don’t forget to remember me! (2010 - 2018)

I vividly recall my arrival in Miami in 1995. One indelible memory is driving along Calle Ocho, the bustling heart of Little Havana. The vibrant street life unfolding before me, so reminiscent of scenes from Cuba, felt like a moment of magical realism, a profound counterpoint to my expectations of an American neighborhood.

Little Havana holds a unique and storied place in Miami's tapestry. Since the 1960s, it has served as a critical haven for Cuban immigrants, later welcoming successive waves of arrivals from Central and South America. This history has forged an irreplaceable community, rich with a proud, resilient Hispanic identity.

This photographic series, "Don’t forget to remember me!," was produced over eight years, from 2010 to 2018. It is a direct response to the rapid gentrification and unchecked urban development currently endangering the neighborhood's unique charm and cultural heritage. As iconic small businesses and historic buildings face disappearance, the series acts as a vital counter-archive.

Unlike other areas of Miami, Little Havana sustains a powerful, tight-knit support network rooted in shared experiences and cultural ties. My project is a tribute to the neighborhood's unsung heroes: the longtime residents, the familiar faces, distinctive personalities, and keepers of classic Cuban attire, who embody its enduring spirit and resilience.

As the community’s fabric evolves and tourist influxes transform once-tranquil spots, the core mission of this work is to preserve the memories, rituals, and everyday lives of the residents caught in the currents of change. The designation of Little Havana as a National Treasure by the National Trust for Historic Preservation in 2015 underscores the urgent need to safeguard this heritage.

Don’t forget to remember me! honors the legacy of those who shaped this cultural landscape, celebrating their enduring spirit and ensuring that their stories remain central to the narrative of Miami’s history.

Calle Ocho, a once peaceful street, is now full of tourist on a daily basis.

The Cuban boulevard used to be paradise for the area residents, not anymore.

A group of "abuelos" enjoy themselves on a Friday night at the Pub restaurant.

El Exquisito, one of the iconic Calle Ocho restaurants, is now out of business.

A Jehovah Witnessed lady peacefully distribute religious literature.

Rina, Cuban American; likes to dress up and play dominoes.

Vidal, an early wonderer roaming the streets of Calle 8 every day

Santiago Portales, Cuban American; retired Naval Engineer, dancer, and 'seasonal model'

Pedro Bello, Cuban American; has worked for more than 40 years at Calle 8's Cuba Tobacco Cigar Company.

Don Ángel, aka "Abuelo", Cuban American. Owner of one of Calle 8's landmarks: Los Pinareños Frutería (fruit market), established in 1967 with his wife Guillermina. Deceased.

Guillermina Hernández, aka "Abuela de la Calle 8", Cuban American; has worked for over 50 years at "Los Pinareños" fruit market.

Marta, Cuban American; she came to the USA in 1959 and owned a beauty salon in Calle 8 for over 20 years. Died in 2017.

Paco, Cuban American. Came to the USA in the 60s. Original of Caibarién, central Cuba. Deceased.

Gladys, born in NYC and raised in Venezuela. She wanted a dollar for beer.

Roberto, a usual at Domino's Park

Francisco “El Manicero”, he is the only licensed peanut seller at Calle 8

Angel, Cuba American; likes to play the guitar around Calle 8 restaurants. He is also known as "El Mago de la Hoja" (The Leaf Magician), because his leaf whistling skill accompanies his guitar tunes.

Tony Flores, Cuban American; if there is music in Calle 8, Tony would be there, dancing with his charming personality.

Jay, Cuban American; a Peter Pan child who is always roaming the streets of Calle 8 either riding his colorful and uniquely decorated bike or van full of objects from Cuban and American cultures.