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The former adult film actress and current influencer Mia Khalifa shared a photo on social media of a one-dollar bill with the phrase “Free Cuba” written on it.
The post, shared through their stories on Instagram, has been interpreted as a critique of dollarization in Cuba and a show of support for Cubans who are demanding political and economic changes.
Khalifa, who in recent years has expressed his critical stance towards the prevailing regime on the island, accompanied the image with the message: “Exactly,” thus joining other voices that question the impact of dollarization on the economic crisis of the island and call for the freedom of the Cuban people.
The circulation of the dollar in Cuba has been a controversial topic, especially after the economic reforms implemented by the government, which have created an unequal system between those who have access to foreign currencies and those who rely solely on the Cuban peso.
Especially at the end of 2024, Cuba has experienced a new phase of partial dollarization. The government has implemented measures such as the opening of stores where payment is only accepted in cash dollars, aimed at attracting foreign currency and improving liquidity amid a deep economic crisis.
These stores offer a variety of products, from food to essential items, but their prices and the exclusivity of using the dollar make them inaccessible for a significant portion of the population that does not have access to this currency.
The Cuban government, for its part, defends partial dollarization as a necessary measure to control the flow of foreign currency and counteract the illegal currency exchange market.
However, economists and analysts warn that these policies could deepen inequalities and fail to address the structural causes of the economic crisis.
Mia Khalifa has shown her support for the Cuban people on several occasions and her discontent with the government of Miguel Díaz-Canel.
In July 2021, during a health crisis in Cuba, Khalifa called Díaz-Canel "garbage" due to his management of the epidemiological situation on the island.
Additionally, she offered to help Cuba, seeking organizations that were collecting donations for the island.
Subsequently, Khalifa intensified her criticisms, referring to the Cuban president with derogatory terms such as "singao," "cabrón," and "son of a bitch". These statements resonated on social media and were widely shared.
In October 2024, Mia Khalifa reiterated her critical stance towards Díaz-Canel, repeating the epithet "singao" in response to posts about the energy crisis affecting the Cuban population.
Frequently Asked Questions about Dollarization and the Economic Crisis in Cuba
What does partial dollarization mean in Cuba?
The partial dollarization in Cuba involves the widespread use of the US dollar in certain economic sectors, such as wholesale and retail trade, and tourist services. This measure aims to attract foreign currency and control the informal exchange market, although it increases inequalities by favoring those with access to foreign currency.
How does dollarization affect the Cuban population?
The dollarization affects the Cuban population by widening the economic gap between those who have access to dollars and those who rely on the Cuban peso. This limits access to basic goods and services, resulting in economic and social exclusion, particularly in a context of economic crisis and product shortages.
Why does Mia Khalifa criticize the Cuban regime?
Mia Khalifa criticizes the Cuban regime for its handling of the economic crisis and political repression. She has expressed her support for the Cuban people and denounced the dollarization and measures that, in her opinion, deepen inequalities and restrict the freedom of Cubans.
What has been the reaction of Cubans to the new economic measures?
The reaction of Cubans to the new economic measures has been one of strong rejection, with criticisms on social media and protests over the increase in dolarization and growing inequalities. Many view these policies as an additional burden amid the crisis.
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