MIAMI – In a ceremony echoing the White House turkey pardons, Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava spared two piglets from the dinner table, granting them a ceremonial pardon. This local twist on a national tradition highlights cultural nuances as the community gears up for “nochebuena,” the Cuban American Christmas Eve feast.
On December 20, 2024, in a lively downtown Miami setting, piglets Glinda and Elphaba were officially pardoned, ensuring their place in an animal sanctuary rather than as part of the traditional Christmas Eve meal. Daniella Levine Cava, the county mayor, conducted this event—now a seven-year tradition in South Florida—alongside Eric Castellanos, a local restaurant owner. “The holidays are a time for gratitude and family, not a good time to be a pig,” the mayor humorously noted, highlighting the cultural significance of the pardon amid festive preparations.
The ceremony took place at the Latin Cafe 2000, where Castellanos initially proposed the idea as a playful counter to the traditional White House turkey pardons. In Miami, pork is favored for the holiday feast, prompting Castellanos to suggest, “Hey, someone should do this,” thus beginning an annual tradition.
Glinda and Elphaba, named after characters from the musical ‘Wicked,’ showed little awareness of the significance of the occasion, focusing instead on the apple and orange slices provided. If not for their newfound amnesty, they would join many others in becoming “lechon asado,” a central dish in “nochebuena” celebrations both locally and in Cuba.
Attendee Abbi Erkes, a recent Miami transplant, remarked on the educational value of the event, noting her growing understanding of Cuban and Latin cultures as she adapts to life in South Florida. The event underscores the cultural exchange and community spirit that typifies Miami during the holiday season.
After the pardoning, the piglets were transported to their new sanctuary home, becoming the 12th and 13th pardoned since the tradition began. In a region where pork holds significant cultural culinary importance, the event injects a lighthearted yet meaningful pause in the bustling preparations for “nochebuena.”
The annual pig pardoning ceremony illustrates the rich tapestry of traditions and cultural adaptations in Miami. As Glinda and Elphaba settle into their sanctuary life, Miami reflects on its blend of customs and the shared joy of the holiday season.
Source: Local10
