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Cuban Embassy Reopens. Cigars, Protests and Food Ensue

By July 20, 2015 at 5:29 pm

Seven months after President Obama announced that the United States would begin normalizing diplomatic relations with Cuba, the Cuban flag is flying in the United States for the first time in 54 years. Large crowds gathered outside the Cuban Embassy in Washington, D.C. as the flag was raised for the first time since 1961. Here’s what went down on this historic day:

Some people posed with the flag before it was raised.

Photo Credit: Chip Somodevilla / Getty

That’s the same flag that was lowered in on January 3, 1961, when the US cut off diplomatic ties with Cuba.

Others celebrated with a cigar.

Photo Credit: Chip Somodevilla / Getty

And while people inside in the Cuban Embassy enjoyed some snacks…

Photo Credit: Chip Somodevilla / Getty

All eyes (and cameras) were on the Cuban Embassy building.

Photo Credit: Chip Somodevilla / Getty

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There were plenty of supporters on hand…

Photo Credit: Chip Somodevilla / Getty

Along with protestors.

In Miami, protestors lined the streets to make their voices heard.

Photo Credit: Joe Raedle / Getty

 Some engaged in debate…

Photo Credit: Joe Raedle / Getty

And others sent messages to President Obama.

Photo Credit: Joe Raedle / Getty

Back in D.C., the flag was raised to cheers from the crowd.

https://instagram.com/p/5XnOr0mQEI/

After 54 years, the flag was flying in the U.S. once again.

Photo Credit: Chip Somodevilla / Getty

Three Cuban soldiers stood at attention while the flag made its way up the pole.

A new plaque went up…

Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez and Secretary of State John Kerry made it official with a handshake…

Credit: Mark Wilson / Getty

And the selfies started making their way to Instagram.

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