A video posted on TikTok by a Cuban woman from Florida has sparked intense debate on social media. The woman, visibly upset, questions the criticism aimed at Oniel Bebeshito's concert in Miami, where some lamented that no political statements were made against the Cuban regime.
In the video, the Cuban expressed her disagreement with those who claimed that the event should have featured chants of "Down with the dictatorship!" Speaking directly and without hesitation, user @browsbyzahily stated:
"I am amazed by all these people who are saying that at Bebeshito's concert, they should have shouted 'down with the dictatorship.' I want someone to explain to me what can be achieved by shouting 'down with the dictatorship' at a concert, given that you all have never done anything in Cuba. You're all just putting on a facade; you need to buy a ticket and go to Cuba, to the Plaza de la Revolución, and say 'down with the dictatorship,' that's what you need to do."
The woman argued that concerts are spaces for enjoyment and disconnection, not for addressing political issues. She pointed out that those who demand these expressions from exile often did not take direct action against the regime while living in Cuba
"Stop telling those here and in Cuba to do what you never had the guts to do. A concert is for enjoying and dancing, whether it's Bebeshito or Marc Anthony. Don't send people to do what you never did."
Moreover, she challenged those who criticize her, insisting that her stance is reasonable and that no one has convincingly explained what is achieved by shouting slogans against the regime at a music event
"I want someone to provide a compelling reason for what is accomplished by shouting 'down with the dictatorship' at a concert. Please, tell me something reasonable, not nonsense. I don't care if I get burned for this video, because none of you have done anything at all to bring it down from there, especially not from here."
The video quickly went viral, generating mixed reactions on social media. While some supported the woman's viewpoint, many others quickly responded with criticism, recalling that during the concert, people shouted "Suffer, Otaola."
On the other hand, there were those who supported his viewpoint, emphasizing that shouting "down with the dictatorship" at a concert achieves nothing: "It doesn't accomplish anything; all Cubans do is criticize and spread hate," or "Well said, let them buy a ticket and go to Cuba to shout; no one hears them here," some users commented.
The debate highlights the divisions within the Cuban diaspora regarding how to approach political activism from exile, and whether cultural events like concerts are the appropriate venues for expressions of protest.
Frequently asked questions about the Bebeshito concert and the political debate in Miami
Why did some attendees expect political demonstrations at the Bebeshito concert?
Some members of the Cuban diaspora in Miami hoped that Bebeshito's concert would serve as a platform to express their opposition to the Cuban regime. However, others, such as the user @browsbyzahily, argued that concerts are venues for enjoyment and escapism, not for making political statements. This debate highlights the divisions within the Cuban diaspora regarding how to approach political activism from exile.
What impact did Bebeshito's concert have on the Cuban community in Miami?
Oniel Bebeshito's concert in Miami was seen as a historic event that brought together 20,000 people, solidifying his presence in Cuban urban music. It was perceived as a celebration for the Cuban community in Miami, highlighting his significant ability to draw a crowd.
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