WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Rick Scott and Mrs. Ann Scott announced they have donated a portion of his Senate salary to three South Florida museums honoring the fight for freedom in Cuba and honoring pro-democracy activists determined to end the ruthless, illegitimate communist Cuban dictatorship. The senator has donated to the American Museum of the Cuban Diaspora, the Bay of Pigs Museum and Library, and the Hialeah Gardens Museum Honoring Assault Brigade 2506.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Ann and I are glad to support the American Museum of the Cuban Diaspora, the Bay of Pigs Museum and Library, and the Hialeah Gardens Museum Honoring Assault Brigade 2506. These great museums work to honor those who have fought for democracy and freedom for the Cuban people and pay tribute to the great cultural contributions of the Cuban people to the United States. As I travel the state, I meet so many incredible people who have escaped the evil Cuban regime, know what it’s like to face true oppression and evil, and truly understand the importance of freedom and democracy that the United States must always stand for. Ann and I proudly share and support these museum’s commitment to shining a light on freedom and ensuring Americans know the true dangers of socialism and communism.”

Marcell Felipe, Chairman of the new American Museum of the Cuban Diaspora, said, “There is a clear distinction between a leader and a politician, one looks at power as a means and hence leave a legacy of greatness, the other sees power as an end and never leave any legacy. Senator Scott is everything we wish for in a leader. He has risen to the occasion on behalf of the oppressed abroad, never backs down from bullies at home, and is always inspiring Americans to continue working to make their country great. A successful entrepreneur and job creator who has put those talents to the service of his fellow Americans, Rick Scott embodies the best of America and the hopes placed upon America by those who love her and wish her success. To have Senator Scott and Mrs. Scott donate his salary to the American Museum of the Cuban Diaspora gives us pride, hope and purpose in our mission which is at its core a warning on how a prosperous democracy can turn into an impoverished dictatorship in one generation. This contribution ignites faith that this great country has great leaders and is in itself a cause worth fighting for. Those who came from countries plagued by socialism are grateful for leaders like Scott who understand the threat that ideology poses to America and humanity.”

Rafael Montalvo, President of Brigade 2506 Veterans Association and Dr. Yuleisy Mena, Executive Director of the Bay of Pigs Museum and Library, said, “We are so grateful for the support of Senator Rick Scott and Mrs. Ann Scott to continue our mission of being the world’s premier institution examining the Bay of Pigs Invasion’s profound impact on the US, Cuba, and the world. Through our carefully curated collection, our museum preserves the history of the event and honors the men who participated, and connects the past and present struggles for freedom.”

Felix Rodriguez, head of the Hialeah Gardens Museum Honoring Assault Brigade 2506, said, “We are so grateful to have the support of Senator Rick Scott and Mrs. Ann Scott. Our museum honors the noble efforts of the 2506 Assault Brigade during the Bay of Pigs Invasion, recognizing the thousands of heroes who so bravely and honorably fought for freedom in a Cuba oppressed under an evil regime. This museum stands strong as a reminder of the sacrifices so many Cubans have made to fight evil, and that freedom and democracy is always worth fighting for. Thank you, Senator Scott.” 

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