The Cuban digital creator, Anita, widely recognized on social media as "Anita la Cubana," recently shared a heartfelt account of celebrating her first Christmas outside of Cuba. Her story quickly gained traction and went viral across various platforms.
"My first Christmas away from Cuba exceeded all my expectations. Had I been in Cuba, I would have been worried about what to eat, what I could afford, with money always being tight. Here, however, I found myself in a free country where I could go out and buy the meat I wanted, in whatever quantity I desired, and even purchase a cake. Today, I feel liberated and genuinely happy," she expressed in a video recorded from her new residence in Costa Rica.
Anita, who recently relocated with her partner and child, contrasted the experience of celebrating the holidays on the island with that in a place where, in her words, "people can enjoy without fear or scarcity."
"For the first time, I feel like I’m truly going to celebrate and understand what Christmas is. Many might not know, but in Cuba, Christmas isn’t really celebrated; most people can neither afford a small piece of meat nor decorate their homes with lights," Anita pointed out.
She also conveyed sorrow for those who remain in Cuba. "Today, my thoughts are with those back home, those who didn’t even have a plate of food, who spent Christmas without electricity, without water, without hope. It's sad, but I am incredibly proud that I managed to get my family out of the hell we were living in. I hope all Cubans can one day experience a true Christmas."
The video, titled "This Was My First Christmas Outside of Cuba," received thousands of supportive messages and reflections.
Among the comments, many wished her happiness and blessings. "God bless you and bring you much happiness," one user wrote. "It makes me so happy to see many people manage to leave and live dignified lives," another added. Several highlighted the significance of valuing freedom: "Merry Christmas, nothing beats living in a country where you don’t need permission for anything."
Others were moved by her story: "I don't know you, but I feel happy for you and your family"; "One doesn’t appreciate many things until seeing this kind of video." Messages of hope were also prevalent: "One day Cuba will be free," wrote one person, while another commented, "All countries deserve freedom and prosperity. Let's keep praying to God for the miracle for Venezuela, Cuba, and Nicaragua."
On TikTok (@anita.cubanita06), where the video amassed over 175,000 likes, discussions emerged. Some expressed empathy and understanding: "It’s sad, but also such a joy to see you free." Others shared differing viewpoints: "Ask the United States to lift the embargo," remarked one; another retorted, "Always the same talk of dictatorship, but don’t dream of it happening in Mexico."
Previously, Anita had shared her migration journey from Cuba to Costa Rica, where she arrived with her family after passing through Nicaragua, in another video. At that time, she described the transition as "incredibly tough." "I had never seen so much food together. Knowing there are so many things that you can’t even see in your country," she reflected then.
Anita feels grateful in Costa Rica for the ability to live freely and access things that were unimaginable in Cuba. Her story resonates with many users, capturing the sentiments of thousands of Cubans who have left their homeland in pursuit of a better life.
Understanding the Cuban Exodus and Its Impact
Why did Anita leave Cuba?
Anita left Cuba to seek a better life for her family, escaping an environment where basic necessities were scarce and personal freedoms were restricted.
What challenges do Cubans face during Christmas?
In Cuba, many people struggle to afford food and decorations for Christmas, as the holiday is not widely celebrated due to economic and political constraints.
How has Anita’s story resonated with others?
Anita's story has touched many, reflecting the experiences of countless Cubans who have left the island in search of freedom and a better life, inspiring others to value their own liberties.