Gloria Estefan is feeling the heat for a move that prompted some Cuban-Americans to say she is soft on communism.

The Grammy Award-winning singer defended a local arts official who was fired for saying Cuban artists should be allowed to perform in Miami."As an American, I am frightened to see one of our most basic liberties being trampled on in the march for political gain. As a Cuban-American, I am embarrassed that non-Cubans might think that we are all narrow of mind," Estefan wrote in a column for The Miami Herald.

Tomas Regalado chided Estefan on his radio show Wednesday: "Some people in the community have said they sympathize with the communists."

View Comments

Estefan, who came to the United States at age 2, said she wouldn't attend a concert by a Cuban performer, but she respects others' rights.

Join the Conversation
Looking for comments?
Find comments in their new home! Click the buttons at the top or within the article to view them — or use the button below for quick access.