Recent comments by Gerardo Hernández Nordelo, a former spy and current leader of Cuba's Committees for the Defense of the Revolution (CDR), have sparked a wave of reactions among Cubans on social media. Hernández Nordelo asserted that Cubans are not leaving the island in pursuit of freedom, but rather for economic improvement. This statement incensed many who have directly experienced the country's crisis and chose to emigrate.
The national coordinator for the so-called "neighborhood watch" dismissed the idea that freedom drives the mass emigration of Cubans, calling it a "fairy tale." He made this claim alongside Cuba's head of state, Miguel Díaz-Canel, and Johana Tablada de la Torre, an official from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MINREX), during an episode of the podcast 'From the Presidency'.
Public Outcry on Social Media
A Facebook post by CiberCuba about his remarks ignited a storm of comments from Cubans expressing disagreement and outrage. Many reminded Hernández Nordelo of the anguish felt by families who have lost loved ones at sea or on perilous journeys, as well as the millions suffering from separation.
Responses were swift and pointed. "Cubans leave Cuba seeking prosperity, health, paid work, economic stability, peace, decent housing, stable family life, security, and a future for their children. All of this is achieved through FREEDOM," one Facebook user stated, in a widely supported response. Another noted, "Families are forcibly separated. Children, parents, spouses, entire generations leave seeking dignified work, freedom, and to live as human beings. Many have died on dangerous journeys, whether by land or sea, driven by the desperation we live with every day in our country."
Criticism of Privileged Position
Critics didn't just target Hernández Nordelo's statements; they also condemned his privileged status within the system. "Gerardo Hernández speaks from the comfort of his good life in Cuba. He doesn't understand the hardships of ordinary Cubans. He doesn't know what it's like to stand in endless lines for a bit of food or live in fear of expressing oneself," one commenter wrote.
Some questioned his role as a "hero" and reminded him of his use by dictator Fidel Castro. "If Gerardo believes so much in Cuba's 'prosperity,' why doesn't he give up the privileges he enjoys within the system and live like an average Cuban?" another user challenged.
Deep Frustration with the Regime
Other responses were more candid: "Mr. Gerardo, are you aware of what you're saying? Such cynicism in your words. It's mockery and blackmail towards those parents who have lost children at sea searching for a better future, and those who suffer silently from the distance of their loved ones simply because they have no future and no ability to choose their path without oppression or repression."
The reactions highlighted a deep frustration with Cuba's reality and the regime's stance on emigration. The assertion that Cubans are not fleeing due to a lack of freedom was met with harsh criticism, pointing to repression, lack of rights, and the inability to improve life quality on the island.
"People don't risk their lives for a steak sandwich," another user added, underscoring that the island's crisis is not just economic but also political and social. The ongoing controversy makes it clear that, far from buying into the official narrative, Cubans who have had to emigrate know precisely why they made that decision: to find what they cannot have in Cuba.
Understanding Cuban Emigration Dynamics
Why are Cubans leaving the island?
Cubans are leaving in search of better economic opportunities, freedom, and improved quality of life, which they find lacking in their home country due to political and social issues.
What sparked the recent reactions from Cubans on social media?
The reactions were triggered by Gerardo Hernández's comments dismissing freedom as a reason for Cuban emigration, which many found detached from the reality of those who have left the country.
How do Cubans view the official narrative on emigration?
Many Cubans reject the official narrative that minimizes the role of freedom and rights in driving emigration, pointing instead to the repressive and limiting conditions on the island.