MIAMI — For several miles along Bird Road, Cuban exiles filled the streets, waving Cuban flags and calling for freedom on the island.

Many said they believe Cuba will soon be free from what they describe as decades of dictatorship.

“Cuba needs to be free. It’s been too many years. 67 years of the Cuban dictatorship,” one participant said. “Cuban people are suffering. We’re proud Cuban American.”

The gathering comes after President Donald Trump suggested to reporters a possible “friendly takeover” of Cuba, saying talks are underway and that the island is facing serious economic trouble.

Cuba has struggled economically and with energy shortages after oil shipments from Venezuela stopped following the capture of Nicolás Maduro, leaving the island under severe strain.

Cuban Americans in South Florida -- including activist Alex Otaola -- said they want their voices heard.

“It’s important to let the administration know that Cuban exiles want to be heard and we want them to know that we don’t want part in the dictatorship. We want liberty,” Otaola said.

As chants of “Libertad” echoed, the group gathered with the ocean in the distance to sing the Cuban national anthem, expressing pride and hope for change.

“I want to see Cuba free. That simple,” one demonstrator said. “People don’t have that right right now. They haven’t had it for 67 years. I think that’s enough no?”

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