A peculiar scene captured in the United States has sparked comments and laughter on social media. A Cuban woman recorded another drying her sneakers by placing them on the hood of a car, right in front of a laundromat—a gesture more common in the streets of Cuba than in the United States.
In the video shared by @helengonzalez808 on TikTok, the woman recording, clearly surprised, says: "You're in the United States, what are you doing hanging that up in the middle of laundry? Seriously, are you really going to do this in the United States? Look at the cars passing by and you're in a boarding house. She's not joking, look. She's not joking. She hung her shoes there. No girl, no. This is just too much."
The curious scene generated mixed reactions in the comments from users, showcasing different perspectives on the situation. Some criticized this behavior, arguing that it perpetuates inappropriate customs outside of Cuba: "I really don't see the point. Cubans want to impose the same things from Cuba in a country that isn't ours."
On the other hand, some people took the episode humorously and identified with the protagonist of the video: "I did it and my husband almost died when he saw me, but they dry up while I finish the laundry," or "If you dry them with the dryer, the heat breaks them. I do the same thing, but on the windows."
The protagonist of the video also responded to the comments, justifying her makeshift drying rack: "Hey old lady, let me be happy hanging out my shoes. They need to dry because I have to go out tonight," or "Let's not say we are Cuban and that will never leave our blood."
These types of anecdotes reflect how certain customs and everyday practices from the island remain alive in exile, sparking both laughter and debates among Cubans themselves.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cuban Customs in the United States
Why do some Cuban customs generate controversy in the United States?
Cuban customs can create controversy in the United States, as some everyday practices from the island, such as hanging laundry in public spaces or using excessive water for cleaning, are not always well-received in the American context. These behaviors may be seen as inappropriate or out of place, sparking debates about the cultural adaptation of Cuban immigrants.
Is it common to see Cubans hanging laundry in public spaces in the United States?
Although it is not a common practice in the United States, some newly arrived Cubans may hang their clothes in public spaces due to the deeply rooted custom of doing so in Cuba. This can elicit mixed reactions within the community, ranging from nostalgia to criticism for not adapting to local norms.
What reactions do Cuban practices on social media generate in the U.S.?
Cuban practices, such as hanging laundry or using excessive water for cleaning, provoke a wide range of reactions on social media. Some users approach them with humor and nostalgia, relating to the customs of their homeland, while others criticize these actions for not aligning with local practices and deeming them inappropriate.
How does the cultural shock affect Cubans in the United States?
The cultural shock can be significant for Cubans in the United States, as they have to adapt to new norms and social practices that differ from what they are used to in Cuba. This adaptation process can lead to humorous situations, discussions about customs, and reflections on cultural identity.
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