A Cuban woman who emigrated in 2014 and personally experienced the struggles of immigration has stirred emotions with a TikTok video. Her message targets those who, despite having faced similar challenges, now mock the fears of other immigrants.
@soyanitarodriguez created the 48-second clip and didn't hold back. She shared her journey: leaving Cuba, spending a month in Ecuador, six months in Panama — where she was robbed and had to seek refuge to work — and finally arriving in the United States, where she dealt with the anxiety of paperwork and separation from her mother, son, and entire family.
“I just can't understand how someone who was once an immigrant can laugh at another's fear,” she states in the video with a calmness that speaks louder than any shout.
The immigration experience for many Cubans in the United States remains fraught with uncertainty and shifts in policy. Stay updated on issues affecting the immigrant community in our U.S. Immigration section.
She concludes: “I will never understand how one person's pain can be another's source of laughter.”
The community responded vigorously. The phrase “there's no wedge worse than one from the same wood” appeared in at least three different comments, as if everyone was waiting for someone to voice it aloud.
One follower was more direct, pointing out that “it's the same Cubans” who mock. The creator didn't deny it: “I see them, friend,” she replied.
Another passionate comment targeted those who obtained citizenship or licenses without studying yet judge others, emphasizing, “A paper doesn't make the difference, humanity does.”
@soyanitarodriguez accepted the challenge and responded: “A paper may change your status, but it shouldn't change your humanity. No one is better than anyone else, especially when many of us know how hard it is to start over.”
There was even room for humor. Someone proposed marriage in the comments to avoid deportation, to which she replied with a smile: “I'm married, my dear, relax, and have faith that nothing will happen.”
The discussion sparked by this video isn't new but remains critical. Singer Aymée Nuviola shared a similar message this week, calling for “mercy and empathy” regarding deportations and recalling her own experience crossing from Mexico. Earlier, in July 2025, a Cuban YouTuber criticized compatriots advocating for the deportation of other migrants, and a Cuban police officer in the U.S. lashed out at legal residents mocking those with parole or I-220A. Even a Mexican TikToker sparked debate by noting that some Cubans now upset by immigration measures once mocked other undocumented individuals.
@soyanitarodriguez's video has garnered 17,400 views and 637 likes, but what truly resonates is the question left open in the comments: “Do you think we are losing empathy as a society?”
Exploring Empathy and Immigration Among Cubans
Why did @soyanitarodriguez create the TikTok video?
@soyanitarodriguez created the video to address the irony and lack of empathy she perceives among some immigrants who mock others' fears of deportation, despite having faced similar challenges themselves.
What message did the video convey?
The video conveys a message of empathy and understanding, urging those who have experienced the difficulties of immigration not to mock others who are currently facing similar fears.
How has the community responded to the video?
The community has responded with strong support and agreement, with many comments echoing the sentiment that empathy and humanity should prevail over judgment and mockery.