After a video went viral in which she expressed frustration with life in the United States and claimed she would prefer to live in Cuba, a Cuban woman living in Miami took to social media again to address the wave of criticism she received. In a follow-up video shared by several pages and profiles like La Familia Cubana, she lashed out at those who criticized her opinions.
"People who lived in dire conditions in Cuba are the ones saying this country is the best. They are still struggling here and yet continue to claim it's the best place," she stated. The Cuban woman rejected being labeled as lazy, as some users described her, insisting that she has not stopped working since arriving in the U.S.
"They criticize you, call you lazy, say you don't work and just want handouts. Since I came to this country, I've been working like a mule, and what has it gotten me? Nothing. Do you know why? It's $1,200 in rent, pay the car, pay this, pay that, pay, pay, pay, and what do you have left in your pocket? A hundred dollars, which is barely enough because once you buy something, those $100 are gone. Don't tell me you can't spend $100 here just on groceries," she affirmed.
Questioning the System
She also questioned the benefits of the aid system in the United States, particularly in Florida: "'Oh, because they give aid.' Where are these aids? Sure, there are many states that do provide help, but in Miami, you see long lines of people desperate for handouts, and then they're the first to criticize me for liking free stuff."
With visible frustration, the woman emphasized her personal efforts and criticized what she perceives as a double standard among other Cubans: "Look, if I'm lazy, then explain why I've been working hard since I arrived, my hands look like a man's because they're full of calluses. Now go and see which women have calloused hands—none, because they all want OnlyFans or easy work. Whoever wants to do whatever with their life, go ahead, but don't call me lazy because I'm not."
A Heated Debate
The video has sparked another wave of reactions on social media, reigniting the debate among Cubans about the real challenges of emigrating and starting over abroad versus the even greater hardships faced by those who remain on the island. "I pay $1,200 in rent, and it's going up to $1,791. I'm a single mother earning minimum wage, paying for a car, insurance, water, electricity, and Internet, and I help my family in Cuba. I end up with nothing, but I still say God bless the United States of America," some commented.
Others were even harsher in their criticism: "Buy a ticket and go back to Cuba. Stop complaining; everyone knows you come here to work, and success doesn't come overnight. You have to work hard, so stop criticizing this great country that has given you opportunities your own country never would," said another. "Level up. I came to this country as a professional, worked in cleaning, in hotels and houses, and now I'm a businesswoman. But I took courses, prepared myself, and now I have what I would never have achieved in Cuba."
Some were blunt: "You should go back to your country where you don't have to pay anything because there's simply nothing to pay for... and yes, this is the best country in the world. If you can't appreciate it, maybe it's not for you." Others echoed, "Girl, no one is forcing you to be here, just go back to Cuba. This is a great country whether you like it or not, and be thankful that you have $100 left after paying all your bills, because in Cuba, no matter how much you work, you wouldn't even make $20 to cover your expenses."
Understanding the Cuban Experience in the U.S.
Why are some Cuban immigrants disillusioned with life in the United States?
Some Cuban immigrants feel disillusioned due to the high cost of living, low wages, and the perceived lack of support systems. Despite working hard, they struggle to make ends meet, leading to frustration and a longing for the simpler life they had in Cuba.
What challenges do Cuban immigrants face in Miami?
Cuban immigrants in Miami face challenges such as high living expenses, limited job opportunities, and the pressure to adapt to a new culture while supporting families back in Cuba. These difficulties are compounded by the lack of significant aid and support systems in Florida.
How do social media reactions reflect the broader Cuban-American community's views?
Social media reactions reveal a divided Cuban-American community, where some empathize with the struggles of starting over in a new country, while others criticize those who complain about the challenges, emphasizing gratitude for the opportunities available in the United States.