The Cuban content creator Arielito, @arielito.oficial, has sparked a strong debate on TikTok after responding to criticism for sending money to his family in Cuba.
"Don't say anything, it's better to stay quiet and send money, to maintain that system, right," a user had commented to him, hinting that financial support to the family indirectly helps the Cuban government, something that sparked the reaction of this young Cuban who lives in the United States.
In his video, Arielito responded firmly, making it clear that the money he sends is not for the system, but for those who raised him and sacrificed for him. "I don't support any system, I support my family," he declared. The TikToker explained that his family in Cuba always fought to survive, and now that he is in the United States, he feels the responsibility to help them. "When I was little, they broke their backs so I could have a plate of food on my table and at least a pair of shoes to go to school," he added, emphasizing that his support has nothing to do with politics, but with gratitude and family love.
"I am not going to let my family go hungry. Do you understand me? Because my family is over there facing tremendous hardships right now," he stated, making his position clear and indicating that he will ignore those who—from a distance or the comfort of having their loved ones with them—criticize those who send money or take care of their family's needs on the island.
The reactions to the video did not take long to arrive, and many users endorsed their words: “This is for all the Maceos and Marianas behind social media. I send money to my family whenever I feel like it and I go to Cuba whenever I want. The pro patria y vida is getting boring”; “What keeps you going and what makes you return to Cuba is family, it’s not for Cuba. Blessings to those who do not abandon family,” said some.
The video also generated emotional support and recognition for the tiktoker for his attitude. “You are doing very well, Arielito, family is not abandoned, especially with the situation in Cuba. I also help my family and will continue to help,” commented another user, reflecting the difficult situation on the island. Similarly, some pointed out the hypocrisy of certain critics: “Those who do not want to help... justify themselves with that response,” suggesting that some use politics as an excuse not to send remittances.
Other users strongly supported the message of this young Cuban emigrant, sharing their own experiences: “If helping my family in Cuba means supporting the system, then I regret to say that I will continue to support it because I will keep helping my mother and brother in everything,” affirmed another follower. The idea that the support is directed towards families and not the government was a common sentiment among the comments. “That's right, it's for the family, not for the government,” agreed one.
Some also applauded the clarity and sincerity of this young man who lives in the United States: “You spoke like a great human being and a man, that's how it's done,” commented one, while another added: “You are absolutely right, under no circumstances should one abandon family.” The concern for the economic situation in Cuba is palpable in many of the comments, and another follower concluded with a powerful reflection: “For me, first my parents and then everything else. One has to be ungrateful not to help family knowing what they go through over there.”
This debate remains a recurring topic among Cubans in exile, who often find themselves caught between the desire to help their loved ones and the criticism for the indirect impact it may have on the system. However, as shown by the response of this Cuban, for many compatriots, family comes first, and neither criticism nor difficulties can change that priority.
What do you think?
COMMENTFiled under:
