Immigration
A teary-eyed Jeff Bezos tells his dad's story as a Cuban immigrant
The founder of Amazon paid tribute to his father, a Cuban-born immigrant, at an awards ceremony where for once, the honoree was not him
May 13, 2022 11:06am
Updated: May 14, 2022 3:53pm
Amazon’s founder showed a much more vulnerable side than usual at the latest gala organized by the Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation, where he gave a moving speech to share his father's experience as a Cuban immigrant in the United States.
"Every immigrant who has come to this country, each and every one of them, has their own unique story. They struggle for a better life, with the hardships that come with it, but they also end up believing in America. They believe that this place creates opportunity, and it does. That's certainly my father's story," explained Jeff Bezos.
Miguel left Santiago de Cuba when he was 16 years old without his parents, who wanted to offer him a better life but could not accompany him. He arrived in what would eventually become his new home without mastering English, although that never caused him a problem in making his way in an unknown country.
"I believe that in all immigrants, there is deep optimism and also deep resilience. My father is a hard worker. He is a warm person with an easy smile," said his famous son, who could not hold back tears as he added that both his siblings and he have been very fortunate to have a role model to follow.
Jeff proceeded to invite his dad onto the stage to give him a kiss and a hug so he could pick up the award with which he was being honored last night. Miguel and his wife Jackie are the co-founders of the Bezos Family Foundation, which has been promoting education and positive learning environments for children across the United States since 2000.
