Ailén Góngora, a Cuban living in the United States, has sparked widespread discussion on social media with a video highlighting the lack of support many newcomers encounter when staying with family or friends. Her video, which has garnered hundreds of reactions, reveals her “outrage” as she delivers a stark critique of those Cubans who offer shelter but later turn their backs on individuals seeking a fresh start in the country.
"If you invited a friend, a relative, or anyone into your home to help them arrive in the United States, instead of criticizing them so much, you should be offering assistance," declared @ailen_gongora. She pointed out that many people judge newcomers for "not wanting to work" or "doing nothing," yet no one discusses the hurdles that are placed in their path. Ailén emphasizes that these newcomers often need help with paperwork, transportation, or guidance, and instead face mistreatment or indifference from those who initially promised support.
The Unspoken Struggles of New Cuban Arrivals
"What enrages me is how Cubans spend their lives criticizing other Cubans... no one talks about the other reality," added Ailén, explaining that although her family has supported her, she is aware of stories where individuals have been "exploited, destroyed, and then kicked out," despite initial promises of help.
Ailén's post struck a chord among TikTok users, who didn't hesitate to share similar experiences or express support for her message. "They forget that they were newcomers once too; there is no humility, sensitivity, or solidarity," commented one user. "For a roof over your head and a plate of food, they treat you like a slave, and if you rebel, they kick you out," wrote another. Many Cubans agreed they have faced this situation, confronting challenges without the promised support, and some even shared that they received more help from strangers than from their own family. "Not even my family took me in; a stranger extended a hand instead," read another comment.
Different Perspectives on Cuban Support Networks
Conversely, some offered an alternative viewpoint, reminding others that there are individuals who refuse help or are ungrateful. "There are also those you bring into your home and give all that help, only for them to engage in unpleasant behaviors behind your back," remarked one user, while another added, "Here, there are all types, the ungrateful and the opportunists, it depends on the people."
Ailén Góngora’s video continues to fuel debate and shed light on an often undiscussed reality: the internal challenges many migrants face upon arriving in the U.S., not only due to the country's inherent difficulties but also because of the lack of support from fellow Cubans.