Protests at the Lil' Abner mobile home park in Sweetwater are intensifying as hundreds of families face eviction orders threatening their stability. Among the protesters, a Cuban resident shares his poignant story, having spent his entire life in the park, which his family has called home for four decades. "My family has lived in this trailer park for 40 years. My grandparents passed away here. I'm the only one left. And now they're doing this to us," he expressed in a TikTok video shared by reporter Leonel Alleguez Rey.
The eviction order impacts around 900 families, who must vacate their homes by January 31, 2025. In return, the property owner is offering compensations of $14,000, an amount residents argue is insufficient to cope with Miami's high living costs. With average rents for a two-bedroom apartment at $2,400 a month, many claim this compensation doesn't even cover initial moving expenses.
Fighting back tears, the Cuban resident recounted how he poured all his savings into the trailer he inherited, and how the situation has taken a toll on his family. "I'm bankrupt because all my money and credit cards went into that trailer. Today is my daughter's 18th birthday and here I am, on the street. I don't know where to go, I don't know what to do," he added.
Seeking Inclusive Solutions Amid Development
The resident emphasized they're not against developing the land but are demanding inclusive solutions. "We understand they want to build housing, but they should do it with us here. There's enough space. They could construct apartments and give us the right to a decent home, which we would pay for," he stated.
For days, families have held peaceful demonstrations, calling for realistic alternatives. They criticize the landowner, who recently raised rents, for failing to propose a relocation plan that considers current residents' needs. "This isn't fair. We've paid our rent on time for years. We're not asking for handouts, just the right to continue living with dignity," explained the protester.
The Broader Crisis of Affordable Housing
The situation highlights a growing trend in Miami, where soaring housing costs and real estate speculation are displacing vulnerable communities. According to residents, the planned project for the land includes apartment buildings for rent, but without ensuring access for evicted families.
With the deadline looming, those affected vow to keep fighting for a fair solution. Meanwhile, the protests in Sweetwater have become a wake-up call about the housing crisis gripping the region.