Cinthya Medrano, known as La Cintumbare among Cubans, continues to make waves on social media since she was deported to Cuba last February, and she has taken it upon herself to flaunt her happiness on the island.
While he was having a great time at the concert of Alexander Abreu and Havana D’Primera at the Johnny Club in Havana on Friday night, he took the microphone and addressed the attendees, stating: “You all know that I was deported from the United States, well, I wasn’t deported, I deported myself. I want to tell you that I wasn’t deported, I deported myself.”
I feel happy because I am in my country, in my homeland, where I was born, where I grew up. If I had been deported to Africa, to Haiti, I would be crying, but I am in my homeland, happier than ever, I swear to you, I am with my family, I am with my son, I am with my fans, with my audience, with the people who support me,” added the influencer.
Although those were his words, many internet users on social media believe it is an image he wants to sell rather than the reality.
“What's on his mind is a shoe on his head”; “But don’t cry, be strong now repeat with me, you were deported”; “Like she’s looking thinner, that’s called hunger, blackout, and misery”; “Not even the one who broke your c* believes that, you returned to hell on earth and you know it, from where everyone wants to escape, you went back to the garbage dump”; “She says she wasn’t deported, that she deported herself. She also turned herself in at an ICE center”; “I don’t understand why if she loves her country so much and is so happy there, she decided to leave at one point,” some users comment on Instagram.
The controversy surrounding La Cintumbare not only revolves around her statements but also about the image she attempts to project since her return. For many, the influencer seeks to capitalize on her deportation as a narrative of empowerment, while downplaying the harsh conditions that millions of Cubans on the island face daily. Critics point out that her discourse ignores the precariousness of the healthcare system, food shortages, and the lack of freedoms—issues that have driven thousands to emigrate, including herself.
Additionally, the fact that she appeared at a public event and expressed herself so fervently has been interpreted by some as an attempt to ingratiate herself with pro-government sectors, which has further fueled the controversy. The disconnect between her discourse of "full happiness" and the everyday reality of the country has led many to accuse her of hypocrisy or of manipulating her story to gain media attention.
Frequently Asked Questions about La Cintumbare and its Deportation to Cuba
Why was La Cintumbare deported from the United States?
La Cintumbare was deported for failing to attend multiple immigration hearings, which resulted in an in absentia deportation order. Although she claimed to have been on parole, official documents indicate that she entered the U.S. with a parole, complicating her immigration status.
What has La Cintumbare said about her return to Cuba?
La Cintumbare assures that she feels happy to be in her country and near her family. Despite the criticisms, she has shared on social media her joy and gratitude for being back, stating that she enjoys life on the island.
How has the audience reacted to La Cintumbare's statements?
The statements from La Cintumbare have sparked divided opinions. Some criticize her for ignoring the reality of Cuba, while others support her for her positive attitude. Her presence at events and her speeches have been seen as attempts to gain favor with official sectors.
What plans does La Cintumbare have after her deportation?
La Cintumbare has expressed her intention to continue enjoying her life in Cuba and explore new opportunities. She claims to be full of plans and has expressed her desire to travel around Europe in the future.
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