Miami's Freedom Tower is a symbol of resilience, diversity, and unity. Serving as the first stop for many immigrants, notably Haitians and Cubans, the Freedom Tower has played a pivotal role in shaping the cultural landscape of South Florida. Its historical significance extends beyond the immigrant narrative, as it holds a special place in the hearts of the local community, particularly in moments of collective celebration and pride.

A Gateway to the American Dream

The Freedom Tower has a rich history as a gateway for immigrants arriving in the United States. For decades, it served as the first stop for many Haitian and Cuban immigrants who sought refuge and a better life. As the "Ellis Island of the South," the Freedom Tower processed, documented, and provided medical care to thousands of Cubans fleeing Fidel Castro's regime during the 1960s and 1970s. Over the years, this iconic building has also welcomed countless Haitians, who, faced with political turmoil and economic hardship in their homeland, embarked on a perilous journey in search of the American Dream.

The Heart of South Florida

The Freedom Tower's significance extends beyond its historical role as a beacon of hope for immigrants. It is a beloved symbol of the South Florida community, deeply ingrained in the region's cultural fabric. When the Miami Heat wins championships, citizens gather around the Freedom Tower in shared triumph, their jubilant cheers echoing off its walls. The tower stands tall, radiating a sense of pride that reverberates through Miami-Dade County.

The Freedom Tower, located in Miami, Florida, is a building that carries a significant historical and cultural value for many communities, primarily the Cuban-American community. This vibrant yellow building, with its ornate pointed roof, is considered the "Ellis Island of the South", serving as the Cuban Assistance Center from 1962 to 1974. The structure is recognized as an important physical manifestation of the Cold War era politics and the Cuban exodus experience, symbolizing hope and freedom. For the Cubans who passed through its halls, it was a gateway to a new life and they have since become a vital part of the South Florida community​¹​.

Originally built as a newspaper headquarters in 1925, the Freedom Tower was first used as the headquarters and printing facility for the newspaper The Miami News. The structure exhibits elements of the Mediterranean Revival style, with design elements borrowed from the Giralda in Seville, Spain. Its 255-foot (78 m) tower was adorned with a decorative beacon​²​.

In the 1960s, the building was used by the Federal government of the United States to process and document refugees from the Cuban Revolution. This earned the building its nickname as the "Ellis Island of the South". After the major era of refugees ended, the federal government sold the building to private buyers in 1974. In 1979, the building was listed on the National Register of Historic Places​²​.

The second floor of the tower houses the New World Mural 1513, a piece of art created by The Miami Artisans in 1988. This mural is a recreation of the ruined original from 1926 and sometimes has limited access to the public​²​.

In 1997, the building was purchased by the family of prominent Cuban-American businessman and anti-Communist Jorge Mas Canosa for US$4.1 million. The building was then restored to its original state and converted into a memorial for the refugees who fled to the United States from Cuba. It housed a museum, library, meeting hall, and the offices of the Cuban American National Foundation​²​.

By 2005, the Freedom Tower had changed hands again, this time to the Terra Group. This purchase eventually led to the Freedom Tower being donated to Miami Dade College, under the leadership of Miami-Dade College President, Dr. Eduardo Padron. As part of the donation agreement, the College was required to create a Cuban exile experience. Today, the building is used as a museum, cultural center, and an education center​²​.

The building's history doesn't end there; it is continually reinventing itself, gaining local recognition for its major exhibitions and growth as an institution of art. The MDC Museum of Art + Design is on the second floor of the building and offers a wide range of exhibits, free and open to the public. The Freedom Tower is also home to the Cuban American Museum​²​.

Over the years, the Freedom Tower has played host to many significant events. In 2015, Cuban-American Florida Senator Marco Rubio chose the Freedom Tower as the venue for the announcement of his presidential campaign. In the same year, His Majesty The King of Spain, Felipe VI, received the Presidential Medal, the highest distinction from Miami-Dade College, from its President Eduardo Padron​.

Most recently, in May 2022, Gov. Ron DeSantis announced a $25 million investment to preserve, refurbish, and enhance the Freedom Tower​²​.

Commemorating a Symbol of Strength

Recognizing the Freedom Tower's symbolism and importance, Breakin' Atoms, a renowned fashion brand, decided to pay tribute to this iconic landmark. The brand launched an Unofficial Official Shirt, a unique fashion piece that celebrates the Freedom Tower's pivotal role in Miami's history and cultural identity. The shirt is a tangible reminder of the strength and resilience that define the Miami community.

Get Your Unofficial Official Shirt Today!

Don't miss your chance to own a piece of Miami's history. Wear your pride on your sleeve and join the community in honoring the Freedom Tower's lasting legacy. Get your hands on the Unofficial Official Shirt here. Celebrate Miami, its vibrant diversity, and the enduring symbol of hope that is the Freedom Tower.