Sheila Pérez, a young Cuban woman who spent almost two years living in the United States, has stirred controversy on social media after announcing her decision to return to the island. "I'm leaving because I want to. I'm not 100 percent happy here," she stated in several videos circulating online, emphasizing the affection she feels for her loved ones in Cuba.
Pérez, who worked at Walmart, explained in a video that she decided to quit her job and return to the island for personal reasons. She wants to be close to her family, especially her grandfather, who raised her and holds a special place in her heart. One key factor influencing her decision was the termination of the parole program requested by her relatives for her grandfather, which complicated his possibility of emigrating to the U.S., ultimately leading her to decide to go back.
"He was the person who saw me take my first steps, and I want to be there for his last steps," she explained emotionally.
Family Ties and Personal Decisions
Sheila also highlighted that, unlike many Cuban migrants in the United States, she feels a strong need to be near her family in Cuba. In addition to her grandfather—her grandmother passed away in 2018—her mother also lives in Cuba, which further reinforced her desire to return, despite residing in the U.S. with her father and sister. The young woman expressed excitement about returning to what she considers her true home.
"Thank you for the publication. Thanks to those who understand the value of family, and to those who don't, I don't care what you are: son, father, or grandson. Part of the freedom we all long for is letting everyone make their own decisions, so spare me the hypocrisy of saying you want freedom if it bothers you to see it," she wrote in the comments section of the Instagram profile La Familia Cubana.
"Another thing: no criticism is accepted from anyone who has done less than I have here in Cuba, going out on July 11 and standing up for those of us who disagree with this regime from within, showing more courage than many," she added.
Sheila's videos sparked a wave of reactions on social media, dividing opinions between supporters and critics of her decision. From an economic standpoint, many Cubans believe her return to Cuba makes little sense. While life in the U.S. requires hard work, effort, and dedication, it offers a more secure future than what she might find on the island. Others suggested that Sheila should have waited to obtain her green card before making such a significant decision.
Nevertheless, some praise the young woman's decision, calling it brave and celebrating what they see as, above all, an act of love towards her grandfather. Sheila, who has 113,000 followers on Instagram, has been documenting some of her initial experiences back on the island. One particularly emotional experience was enjoying a cup of coffee made by her grandfather.
"After nearly two years without going to a party, yesterday was the first. I was invited to celebrate one of my best friend's birthdays," she wrote in one of her most recent posts.
FAQs on Sheila Pérez's Decision to Return to Cuba
Below are some frequently asked questions and answers that provide more insight into Sheila Pérez's decision to return to Cuba after nearly two years in the United States.
Why did Sheila Pérez decide to return to Cuba?
Sheila Pérez decided to return to Cuba for personal reasons, primarily to be close to her family, especially her grandfather, who played a significant role in her upbringing.
What was a key factor in her decision to return?
A key factor in her decision was the termination of the parole program requested by her relatives for her grandfather, which hindered his chances of emigrating to the U.S.
How has the public reacted to her decision?
The public reaction has been mixed, with some supporting her decision and others criticizing it. Many believe her return to Cuba makes little sense economically, while others commend her for her bravery and family values.