While perhaps not at the same level as granting clemency to festive fowl, but the county's top official experienced a presidential-style act this week by ritually sparing the life of a pig named Six Seven.
Daniella Levine Cava carried out the annual tradition at the Cuban-style Latin Cafe 2000 in the center of Miami’s iconic Little Havana neighborhood.
“This pig is innocent. She deserves this act of mercy. No offenses are on her docket,” Levine Cava said in a speech with clear references to the extraordinary and sizable number of pardons issued since the commencement of a current administration.
“If we disregard eating half a dozen apples per day,” Levine Cava continued. “I hope she experiences a long and happy life free from concern.”
The event, simultaneously observing and challenging the region’s Hispanic tradition of feasting on pork during the holidays, was founded to replicate the annual turkey pardoning at the White House.
The swine, donated by a Coral Gables firefighter, was christened after the popular vernacular phrase of young people yelling “six seven” – inspired by a rap song lyric – often for no discernable reason. The phrase became so pervasive that a prominent word reference recently made “6-7” its top term for the year.
A New Life
This particular pig is now destined to live out its days at a countryside refuge “away from grills and cookware”, according to the ceremony's official statement.
“The annual pig pardon has become a cherished method to begin the holiday season,” said the event host, in a notably cheerful message.
“It captures the character of Miami: happy, multicultural, and based in heritage that unite the community. Annually, we are delighted to mark culture and compassion in a way unique to Miami.”
Attendees enjoyed a plant-based fare of spinach croquetas and strong coffee as they celebrated the swine's new lease on life.
