Strong Message from Cuban in U.S.: "We Are Not Ashamed"

A TikTok video by user "Divergente-Antisocial" has sparked a heated discussion on social media regarding Cuban identity and the perception of Cuban immigrants in the United States. In the clip, the Cuban-American challenges the notion of feeling ashamed of one's nationality, countering comments from other Cubans who expressed such sentiments.

"For several days now, I've seen videos from people saying they are ashamed to be Cuban, that we Cubans are the embarrassment of the immigrant community. It's true they have a point in many aspects, and I agree with them on some, but I also disagree," he stated in his video.

Challenging Stereotypes

In his reflection, @divergenteantisoc emphasized that the actions of a few individuals do not define the entire Cuban community. "We Cubans are not represented by that bunch of delinquents or misguided people," he asserted. He also rejected the notion that Cuban pride should be tied to political affiliations. "If you don't support Trump, if you don't align with the Republicans, and if you disagree with all the recent measures, they simply tell you to pack up and go back to your country."

The Essence of Cuban Identity

For this Cuban living in the U.S., being Cuban means embodying solidarity and hard work. "When someone asks me where I'm from, I proudly say I'm Cuban because what represents me as a Cuban is our joy, our resilience, our entrepreneurship, and the solidarity we've always had," he conveyed. He reminisced about how helping others was an integral part of daily life in Cuba. "We come from a place where we've always assisted our neighbors, our friends, and those who had less than we did, not because we had plenty, but because coming from where we do, we never had anything extra."

He also criticized individuals within the Cuban community who, in his view, have lost empathy for other migrants. "Those people, those influencers with thousands of followers, should feel ashamed. They display such euphoria and fanaticism every time Trump introduces a new measure."

Community Reactions

The video has garnered mostly supportive comments. Some echoed pride in their nationality. "Very proud to be Cuban. I never deny my country because we emigrated to help our families," one user expressed. Another commented, "We come from a nation with many deficiencies, but we've always shared with others, even when we had nothing spare."

However, there were also criticisms. "That's you, but my pride is living here, not in Cuba. This is my homeland," one user stated. Another pointed out, "Those values are lost because some have become insensitive and elitist."

In response, he reiterated his stance: "We can think whatever we like, but we must not become indifferent to others' pain."

Broader Context of Cuban Identity Debate

The video by "Divergente-Antisocial" is part of a wider conversation about the image of Cubans abroad. Recently, other creators have sparked similar debates, particularly criticizing the reaction of some Cubans to Trump's immigration policies and the plight of other immigrants in the U.S.

One such instance involved a Cuban identified as Roy, who in a video stated, "I'm ashamed of Cubans who refer to other Latinos as 'Indians' derogatorily. I'm ashamed of those who, as immigrants, support mass deportations." Roy condemned those who, according to him, forgot their families' sacrifices and developed disdainful attitudes towards other migrants. "I'm ashamed of those who feel superior to other immigrants and Latinos, of those who forgot where they come from," he added.

Another Cuban, Andrés Santiesteban, joined the controversy, criticizing the lack of solidarity among some Cubans with other migrants, especially Mexicans. "What indignation and shame I feel for my fellow Cubans who don't grasp the reality of the situation. Even if you become a U.S. citizen, you'll never be a gringo," he declared. Andrés recalled that when a Cuban truck driver in Colorado was sentenced to 120 years, the first to show support were Mexicans. "Mexicans, I humbly apologize for the absurdities and foolishness of many of my compatriots," he said in his video.

These discussions unfold amidst stricter immigration measures in the United States, including the termination of humanitarian parole, mass raids, and accelerated deportations. According to official data, over 1.4 million immigrants face deportation orders, and thousands of Cubans remain stranded in Mexico due to the new restrictions.

The video by "Divergente-Antisocial" contributes to this ongoing debate, defending Cuban identity and underscoring the importance of solidarity among migrants.