A video posted on TikTok by the user "Divergente-Antisocial" has sparked a debate on social media regarding Cuban identity and the image of migrants in the United States. In his message, the Cuban reacted to videos of other Cubans who claimed to feel ashamed of their nationality, rejecting that stance.
"I have been watching videos here for several days of people who say they are ashamed to be Cuban, that we Cubans are the shame of the immigrant community, and it is also true that they have a point in many things, and I agree on many points with those people, but I also disagree," he stated in his video.
In his reflection, @divergenteantisoc argued that the actions of certain individuals do not represent the entire Cuban community. “Neither that bunch of criminals nor that group of misguided people represent us Cubans,” he stated. He also rejected the notion that pride in Cuban identity is contingent upon political positions. “If you don’t support Trump, if you don’t align with the Republicans, and if you don’t agree with all those measures that are being proposed, then they simply tell you to pack up and go back to your country.”
For this Cuban living in the United States, Cuban identity is marked by solidarity and effort. “When I am asked where I am from, my heart fills with pride when I say I am Cuban, because what truly represents me as a Cuban is how joyful we are, how resilient we are, how entrepreneurial we are, and the solidarity we have always shown,” he stated in his message. He recalled that in Cuba, helping one another was part of everyday culture. “We come from a place where we have always helped our neighbors, our friends, those who have less than us, and we haven’t helped them because we had excess; anyone who comes from where we come from knows that we have never had anything to spare.”
He also criticized figures within the Cuban community who, according to him, have lost empathy towards other migrants. “They should feel ashamed, all those people, all those influencers who have thousands and thousands of followers, and I see them coming out with such enthusiasm, fanaticism, and devotion every time Trump announces a new measure.”
The video has received mostly supportive comments. Some expressed their pride in their nationality. “I am very proud to be Cuban. I never renounce my country because we emigrated to help our families,” wrote one user. Another commented: “We come from a country with many hardships, but we have always shared with others, even when we had nothing to spare.”
Other comments reinforced the creator's message: "Long live my Cuba. We will never lose our roots," or "That needed to be said, and it was said." However, there were also criticisms. "That's you, but my pride is living here, not in Cuba. This is my homeland," stated a user. Another pointed out, "Those values are gone because some have become insensitive and classist."
He, for his part, responded to some of these comments by reaffirming his stance: “We can think as we wish, but without becoming indifferent to the pain of others.”
The video "Divergente-Antisocial" is part of a broader discussion about the image of Cubans abroad. Recently, other creators have sparked similar debates, particularly criticizing the reaction of some Cubans to Trump’s immigration policies and the situation of other immigrants in the country.
One of these cases was that of a Cuban identified as Roy, who expressed in a video: “I am ashamed of Cubans who refer to the rest of the Latinos as ‘Indians’ in a derogatory manner. I am ashamed of those who, being immigrants, support mass deportations.” In his message, Roy criticized those who, according to him, have forgotten the sacrifices of their families and have developed attitudes of disdain towards other migrants. “I am ashamed of those who feel superior to the rest of the immigrants and Latinos, of those who have forgotten where they come from,” he added.
Another Cuban, Andrés Santiesteban, joined the controversy by criticizing the lack of solidarity from some Cubans toward other migrants, especially Mexicans. “What indignation and shame I feel for my Cuban compatriots who still do not understand the reality of the situation. Even if you become an American citizen, you will never be gringo,” he expressed in his message. Andrés recalled that when a Cuban truck driver in Colorado was sentenced to 120 years, the first to support him were the Mexicans. “Mexicans, I humbly ask for forgiveness for the aberrations and foolishness that many of my compatriots are committing,” he said in his video.
These discussions take place against a backdrop of stricter immigration measures in the United States, which include the elimination of humanitarian parole, massive raids, and expedited deportations. According to official data, more than 1.4 million immigrants are facing deportation orders, and thousands of Cubans have been stranded in Mexico due to the new restrictions.
The video "Divergente-Antisocial" contributes to this debate, defending Cuban identity and highlighting the importance of solidarity among migrants.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cuban Identity and Immigration in the United States
Why do some Cubans feel embarrassed about their nationality in the United States?
Some Cubans express embarrassment due to the stigma associated with certain behaviors of fellow nationals abroad. This feeling is also fueled by attitudes of rejection towards other migrants or by support for immigration policies that negatively affect the Latino community in general.
How is the pride of Cuban identity defended abroad?
The pride of being Cuban is defended by highlighting values such as solidarity, effort, and the joy that characterize the Cuban community. Despite criticism, many Cubans abroad feel proud of their heritage and strive to positively represent their culture and traditions.
What role does politics play in the perception of Cubans abroad?
Politics significantly influences the perception of Cubans due to internal divisions regarding support for figures like Donald Trump and immigration measures that affect the community. Political stances can lead to conflicts and tensions among Cubans, both in the U.S. and in other parts of the world.
How do current immigration measures affect Cubans in the United States?
The stricter immigration measures have generated uncertainty and fear among Cubans in the United States. This includes the elimination of humanitarian parole and expedited deportations, which have left many stranded in other countries or facing the possibility of being deported.
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