The Mariel Boatlift exodus has been called one of the U.S.’s most complex waves of immigration.

It was named for the Cuban Port of Mariel, where more than 125,000 people emigrated from in 1980. You’ve likely heard about the large Cuban community that flourished in Miami. But did you know that nearly 15,000 Cuban refugees were sent to Fort McCoy, the U.S. Army base between Tomah and Sparta in southwest Wisconsin? Many settled in Madison. And many didn’t talk about their experience, until now. 

Maureen McCollum and Omar Granados tell their stories – and more – in an eight-part podcast. It’s called WPR Reports: Uprooted. 

You can find it wherever you get your podcasts (NPR link). All eight episodes are also on YouTube. 

Also mentioned on the show:

Madison Film Festival is August 26

Sponsored Interview: Scrum Day is Sept 14

Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email [email protected]. We’re also on Instagram! 

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