President Barack Obama is changing America's policies toward Cuba. He said America’s outdated approach will be replaced with policies promoting trade and travel in hopes of establishing diplomatic relationships that will benefit both the Cuban and American people.

But there are mixed feelings following this announcement.

“Yo pienso que esa actitud de Obama va a pasar a la historia como un hecho valiente (I think Obama’s attitude will make history because it is a courageous act),” Antonio Alonso said.

“Somehow he (Obama) implied that what we did is affecting and hurting the Cuban people,” Rene Perez said. “The Cuban people are affected by the Cuban government. What they do affects them. Nothing we do.”

Yet some Cuban Americans remain hopeful for the Cuban people.

“Porque Cuba necesita esa ayuda (Because Cuba needs that help),” said Gustavo R. Rodriguez.

Obama spoke of expanding travel, which could encourage more family visits. Yet, attorney Marcos Marchena said travel has always been possible.

“Most Cubans have been able to go back and see their relatives if they wanted to do so,” he said.

Marchena came to the United States when he was 12 years old with his mother and sister. They were part of the “freedom flights,” and were able to get visas into the country. Recalling the poor living conditions and suppression, he said he chooses not to go back.

“True freedom and democracy for the people of Cuba, there is no good that will come of this,” Marchena said.

And that was the common concern among locals.

“We don’t know what are we gaining as the United States?” Jorge Mendoza asked.

Others doubt the decision to release three Cuba spies found guilty of conspiracy in exchange for an American prisoner that was detained in Cuba for installing Internet.

“This is not a good trade for the United States,” Marchena said.

The exchange of prisoners is similar to the deal the United States struck earlier this year to secure the release of Army Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl, who had been held by the Taliban. The United States received a lot of flak for turning over five Taliban prisoners from Guantanamo Bay.