RECOGNIZING CESAR ALVAREZ

On 2026-09-21, Representative Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL-26) delivered a floor speech titled "RECOGNIZING CESAR ALVAREZ" in the House.

RECOGNIZING CESAR ALVAREZ

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 149 (Monday, September 21, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 149 (Monday, September 21, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E957] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING CESAR ALVAREZ ______ HON. MARIO DIAZ-BALART of florida in the house of representatives Monday, September 21, 2026 Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize my dear friend Cesar Alvarez, an outstanding leader in law, civic advocacy, and an inspiring member of my community. His longstanding commitment to justice and leadership in the Cuba-American community has culminated today in his recognition by the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce in awarding him the ``Sand in My Shoes Award.'' Originally from Havana, Cuba, Cesar exemplifies what it means to pursue and live out the American dream. His father, Licinio Alvarez, played a pivotal role in his upbringing, both in making the decision to pursue a life in Miami and instilling the importance of hard work and community involvement. With these values driven into him at a young age, it is no surprise Cesar chose one of the most rigorous and demanding career paths available in our Nation: law. In 1973 Cesar began his life's work at Greenberg Traurig as an associate. Throughout his time at the firm, he has been involved in nationally recognized cases, taking Greenberg Traurig time and again to new heights. Notably, Cesar has worked on cases that have significantly impacted the Cuban American community. During the Cuban Rafter Crisis in 1994, Cesar led a legal challenge against the government stance that Guantanamo was not U.S. territory. This involved seeking representation for those being detained and those that were denied asylum protection. This case served as essential legal precedent that influenced future policies regarding detainment at Guantanamo Bay, a reality which continues to this day. Perhaps the most recognizable of these victories includes his work in bringing justice to the families of the ``Brothers to the Rescue''. This horrific attack in 1996 resulting in the death of four unarmed American pilots tore through Miami's Cuban-American community; an attack perpetrated by the Castro regime in cold blood. Cuban MiGs shot down two aircraft operated by ``Brothers to the Rescue,'' seeking to save the lives of countless Cuban men and women crossing the Straits of Florida and forced into exile by the Cuban regime. Alongside Frank Angones, Cesar fought for justice for the pilots through U.S. anti- terrorism laws. While successful in their heroic efforts, they encountered challenges upon attempting to collect the damages from the Cuban regime from the wrongful death suit, Alejandre v. Republic of Cuba 1999. This galvanized congressional action aiming to increase pressure for democratic change in Cuba, leading to the introduction and passage of the Cuban Liberty and Democratic Solidarity Act in 1996, an act for which my dear brother Representative Lincoln Diaz-Balart and close friend Representative Ileana Ros-Lehtinen each provided critical support. This marked a singular moment in history for the Cuban American community, and Cesar's contributions were monumental. Similarly, Cesar played a pivotal role in the legal dispute between George W. Bush and Al Gore in 2000. He was contacted by Florida Governor Jeb Bush's legal team personally and ultimately approved of the firm's participation in this case. He worked to ensure Greenberg Traurig remained neutral and provided bipartisan representation. This case was essential in Greenberg Traurig's growth, opening the door for high profile cases, and placing them among other major players in the legal world. In clear acknowledgment of his historic contributions, Cesar ascended to CEO and President of Greenberg Traurig in 1997, leading the firm from these to become an internationally recognized organization with thousands of attorneys. Today, the heart of the firm remains in Miami, with Cesar serving as Senior Chairman, where it not only provides its legal services but contributes to the community by providing leadership and financial support to numerous local and national charitable organizations. Whether in law or in service to our community, Cesar Alvarez remains a singular figure in our Cuban-American community. Mr. Speaker, it is a privilege to recognize my close friend Cesar Alvarez. I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring his remarkable career and achievements. His work has truly shaped the Miami community, and his leadership has left a significant impact. ____________________