Recently, a Cuban residing in the United States, known on TikTok as @mily_pastel, sparked a lively discussion on social media. In her video, she criticizes certain Cuban migrants who, while fleeing communism in their homeland, end up relying heavily on government assistance abroad.
In her message, the content creator points out that many Cubans leave the island with a strong aversion to communism and socialism. However, once they settle in other countries, they become dependent on welfare programs. "There's nothing wrong with getting help when you need it, but living off government aid without working, which is funded by taxes from working people, seems very socialist to me," she argues.
She highlights that these migrants often criticize the Cuban model for its state control, yet upon arriving in the U.S., they apply for subsidies such as Section 8, Medicaid, and food stamps for years without joining the workforce. The TikToker also questions the political choices of some Cubans who, despite claiming to be anti-communist, support politicians advocating for increased subsidies. "They say they hate socialism, but when it comes to voting, they choose politicians promising more aid," she observes.
Ultimately, she reflects on personal responsibility: "If I'm a young, strong, and healthy person capable of working, why should I receive all these benefits when there are many others who truly need them?" She poses a direct question to those who fit this description: "Did you really hate communism, or did you just want a better-functioning version of it?"
The video has elicited a range of reactions on TikTok. Some users support her viewpoint, noting that many exploit benefits without genuine need. Others challenge her generalization, asserting that not all Cuban migrants behave that way. Additionally, some argue that government assistance is part of democratic systems and not inherently reflective of communism.
The access of migrants to social assistance programs in the U.S. has stirred debate within both the Cuban community and U.S. politics. Mily_pastel's video has reignited discussions on this issue among the Cuban exile community, leading to divided opinions on the relationship between migration and reliance on government aid.
Understanding Cuban Migrants and Government Assistance
Why do some Cuban migrants rely on government assistance in the U.S.?
Many Cuban migrants may rely on government assistance in the U.S. due to initial financial struggles and the need to adapt to a new country. While some may depend on these programs temporarily, others may continue to do so long-term without entering the workforce.
Is government assistance comparable to socialism?
Government assistance is a feature of many democratic systems, designed to support citizens in need. It is not inherently socialist, as socialism typically involves state control over resources and production, while welfare programs operate within free-market economies.
How has the Cuban community reacted to the video by @mily_pastel?
The Cuban community has shown mixed reactions to the video. Some support the critique of dependency on government aid, while others defend the use of such programs as necessary for many migrants' survival and integration into American society.