On Instagram, Memoria Cívica shared a video that aims to debunk five widespread myths about Cuba and its people, starting with a clear disclaimer: they won't discuss the embargo or other tales that "nobody believes anymore."
This video, crafted by Aliannis Sarduy Hernández, Yamara Pereira Rey, and Yanier Vázquez Herrera, delves into specific cultural stereotypes that skew the true image of the nation.
The first myth tackled is the belief that Cubans smoke the world's finest cigars. The presenter explains, "While it's true that we produce over a dozen of the top cigar brands globally, you won't find a Cuban in a store line waiting to buy Cohiba or Partagás." These premium brands are exported and remain largely out of reach for the average Cuban, whose income doesn't match the price of these luxuries.
Changing Sports Preferences in Cuba
The second myth challenges the idea of baseball being "the most played sport." Cubans have increasingly gravitated toward soccer, the world's most universal sport, reflecting a shift over the past few decades. This change also highlights the government's reluctance to broadcast professional baseball games on television.
The third stereotype under scrutiny is the notion of the "passionate Cuban." Studies and surveys featured in the video indicate that the frequency of intimate relations among Cubans is just over once a week, a statistic similar to that of other Latin American countries. One commenter humorously summed it up: "Cubans are passionate; they just happen to be hungry."
The Reality Behind Cuban Cheerfulness
The fourth myth is about constant happiness. "There's joy, sure, but equally, there's melancholy, despair, disappointment, frustration," the presenter states. The video supports this with a stark statistic: Cuba has one of the highest suicide rates in the Americas, with approximately 21 deaths per 100,000 people. Although historical data confirm high rates since the 1980s, more recent figures from 2023 report it at 10.2 per 100,000.
The fifth myth addresses the Republican era, a period often dismissed by the Castro regime as one of corruption and neocolonial dependence. According to the video, "It wasn't just a time of corruption and dependence. It was also a period of political plurality, institutional development, and cultural advancements that many sought to erase from memory." The Cuban Constitution of 1940 was one of Latin America's most progressive texts and produced internationally renowned figures like Celia Cruz, Alicia Alonso, and José Raúl Capablanca.
Additional Myths and Misconceptions
In the comments, several users suggested a sixth Cuban myth: "It's said that all Cubans can dance, and that's not true either," noted one follower. The video concluded with an open invitation: "If you know of other Cuban myths, share them with us, and we'll debunk them together."
Frequently Asked Questions About Cuban Myths
Why are Cuban cigars not commonly smoked by locals?
Cuban cigars, known for their premium quality, are primarily exported, making them too expensive for the average Cuban who lives on a modest salary.
Has soccer overtaken baseball in popularity in Cuba?
Yes, soccer has become increasingly popular in Cuba over the past few decades, reflecting a global trend and also due to limited access to professional baseball broadcasts.
Is the notion of the 'passionate Cuban' accurate?
The stereotype of the passionate Cuban is exaggerated. Studies show that the frequency of intimate relations in Cuba is similar to that of other Latin American countries.