‘You can always count on me.’ Cuban exiles honor Lech Walesa in Miami

Lech Walesa, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate who was president of Poland, was honored Thursday with the title of “ambassador of freedom in Cuba” and a standing ovation at the American Museum of the Cuban Diaspora in Miami.

Walesa, who revolted against communism in Poland and became the first democratically elected president of the country since the 1920s, has been a vocal advocate for Cuban democracy.

“I’m old and would like to live to see your victory parade,” Walesa, 82, said through a translator.

Members of Cuban exile groups, including the Cuban Resistance Assembly, Cuba Decide, the Patriotic Union of Cuba, Brigade 2506, MAR por Cuba, the Foundation for Human Rights in Cuba and Archivo Cuba, were among the dozens who came together to recognize Walesa for his support of human rights and freedom.

“On behalf of the Cuban Opposition, We hereby bestow this distinction upon Lech Walesa,” the award said. “For his extraordinary support in the defense of human rights, freedom and the establishment of democracy and the rule of law in Cuba. His leadership during Poland’s transition to democracy and his steadfast solidarity with our cause inspire millions of Cubans who yearn for a free county.”

He also received a sculpture of José Martí, considered the ”Apostle of Cuban Independence.”

“I need to take this with me fast before you change your minds,” Walesa joked.

Marcell Felipe, chairman of the museum, said the room was filled with people who make up the resistance in and out of Cuba and have sacrificed their personal lives for the greater good.

“Lech Walesa is a testament that gives us hope for what Cuba can become,” Felipe said.

It’s not the first time Walesa has been recognized in Miami for his advocacy against communism in Cuba and around the world. In September 2022, he received a key to the city after visiting with then-Mayor Francis Suarez.

On Thursday, Walesa urged Cubans to be “focused on taking care of business” and to “count above all on yourselves.”

Walesa said there is a power struggle between the United States, China and Russia — all of whom want to be “the top dog” — and concluded the best thing for Cuban democracy is for America to be the global leader.

There are difficult days ahead for Cuba and its people, he said, “but remember that you can always count on me to support you” in the fight for freedom.

This story was originally published February 12, 2026 at 3:55 PM.