The Cuban actress Belissa Cruz is at the center of a strong controversy after starring in an advertisement for a Mipyme that sells a solar panel generator in Cuba.
The promotion, presented as a solution to address the blackouts affecting the population of the island, has been interpreted by many Cubans as a mockery, due to the high cost of these devices and the tone of the actress's message.
In the announcement, Cruz acknowledges the feelings of Cubans regarding the energy crisis. He refers to the frustration, fatigue, and despair of those who face long hours without electricity each day.
The controversy arises when, instead of showing solidarity or supporting the protests against this situation, the actress suggests an individualistic alternative: Not participating in the demonstrations and, instead, buying a generator.
Outages, crisis, and an inappropriate promotion
Blackouts in Cuba have reached critical levels in recent months, impacting not only the quality of life but also family economics and the emotional health of the population.
In this context, promoting a solar panel electric generator as an individual solution was seen as insensitive, especially since its price is beyond the reach of the average Cuban.
Noticing the tone that the reactions to her video were taking, the actress expressed: "I was reading the comments. Don't discriminate against me like that; what I do is promote, and that's it. Thank you all very much."
The responses came quickly. "That’s the problem, your role is to promote," said journalist Alexis Boentes Arias, while another person commented: "Get a grip on the country we live in. That promotion does not fit with us."
"Yes, my dear, with this month's salary I'm going to buy the generator. The promotion is wonderful, what a shame..." said another supporter of the artist.
An average state salary is around 4,000 Cuban pesos. The exchange rate this Tuesday is 340 CUP per 1 USD, which is roughly equivalent to 11.76 US dollars. Acquiring an electric generator is simply unfeasible for most families.
Reactions: outrage and calls for awareness
Criticism came not only from ordinary citizens but also from activists and journalists, such as José Luis Tan Estrada, who was firm in his rejection of the promotional video.
"Belissa Cruz, promotion? What one needs is shame and not to lose it over weight," she said. "More than a 'promotion', it's a mockery of the Cuban people. They are laughing at all those who have gone out to protest to demand an end to the blackouts and misery in Cuba, some of whom are imprisoned and do not even have the resources to buy a generator," Tan Estrada stated.
Another user commented: "It's true that for you it's just work, but be aware, you are a public figure, and in the end, you are doing this for a community that is sensitive. I recommend that when you make announcements of this type, they should be less focused on the misfortune we are experiencing and more on highlighting the positive side of what you are promoting."
Disconnect between public figures and social reality
Cruz recently went viral for stating that he "would never emigrate from Cuba" because he works in what he loves, suggesting that many Cubans abroad have "dead souls" for doing jobs that are not aligned with their vocation.
This episode not only reflects the public's anger at the promotion of an inaccessible product but also the widening gap between public figures and the everyday reality of most Cubans.
While the blackouts continue and protests grow, the controversy surrounding Belissa Cruz serves as a reminder of the social sensitivity that public figures must consider when addressing issues that directly affect the population.
Frequently Asked Questions about Belissa Cruz's Advertising and the Energy Crisis in Cuba
Why has the actress Belissa Cruz been criticized for her advertisements in Cuba?
Belissa Cruz has been criticized for starring in an advertisement that promotes the purchase of electric generators as a solution to blackouts in Cuba. Many interpreted the promotion as a mockery of the Cuban population due to the high cost of these devices and the tone of the message, which was seen as insensitive in the midst of the energy crisis affecting the island.
How do blackouts affect the daily lives of Cubans?
Blackouts in Cuba have a significant impact on the daily lives of citizens, affecting quality of life, family economy, and emotional health. The lack of electricity interrupts daily activities, limits access to basic services, and increases frustration and social unrest among the Cuban population.
What alternatives have been proposed to address the energy crisis in Cuba?
Amid the energy crisis in Cuba, various alternatives have been proposed, such as the purchase of electric generators and solar panels. However, most of these solutions are inaccessible to the average Cuban due to their high costs. Meanwhile, the government has not provided concrete long-term solutions, which increases uncertainty and social unrest.
What has been the reaction of the Cuban population to the advertising of electric generators?
The reaction of the Cuban population to the advertising of electric generators has been one of outrage and criticism. Many view the promotion as a mockery towards those suffering from daily outages and who lack the resources to purchase these devices. The criticisms have focused on the disconnect between public figures and the social reality faced by most Cubans.
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