A video gaining traction on TikTok features a Cuban woman residing in the United States who delivers a stark message to those helping to bring more people from Cuba. Identified as @yersiye.cuen on the platform, she highlights the high cost of living in the U.S., emphasizing that it's not as easy as some might believe back on the island.
"Why are people bringing more folks from Cuba to the United States, knowing how bad it is here?" the Cuban woman begins. In her video, she underscores the expensive nature of life in the country, noting that "everything is super expensive," from rent to basic necessities. She also points out that many newcomers are not finding the financial support they were promised before making the journey.
"Those four thousand dollars you're spending on a ticket, invest it in yourself, in moving forward," she suggests, stressing that there's no point in bringing more family or friends if one is not financially secure. According to her, this is why newcomers often end up estranged from their families in the U.S. when they don't receive the help they anticipated.
Financial Struggles Lead to Family Tensions
She concludes her message by holding accountable those who bring more people from Cuba without having economic stability in the United States. "It's your fault, because if you're not financially stable here, you can't bring anyone. It's a miserable existence in the U.S.," she warns.
The video has sparked extensive debate on social media, with some users agreeing with her viewpoint, while others criticize her tone. Comments range from, "But there's food, electricity, and water. That's enough," and "She's speaking the truth," to "I completely agree, people here don't understand; she says to bring families when you're financially stable. Not to refuse them," and "Is the situation better in Cuba?" or "She told the truth, personally, I wouldn't bring anyone, only my parents."