Fabian Martinez, founder of Esquina de Abuela, reflects on the eviction of his community art space in Allapattah. For nearly a decade, this hub fostered cultural events and artistic expression, supported by the legacy of Martinez's grandmother, who bought the property in the 1980s. However, financial struggles and escalating property values led to an eviction after years of legal battles. Martinez views this experience as a warning to other creatives about the difficulties of running mission-driven businesses in high-cost markets like Miami, where informal community spaces face closure amid gentrification.
"Esquina was difficult because it wasn't just about running the business; I was doing that while still doing community work and helping people."
"Martinez considers Esquina de Abuela's eviction a cautionary tale for other creatives about the difficulties that can arise when running a mission-driven business in a highly expensive real estate market like Miami."
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