“You abandoned your child...”. That was the phrase with which many judged Elvita, a Cuban mother who, like so many others, made one of the most painful decisions of her life: to emigrate alone to the United States, leaving her child behind. She did it with a broken heart but full of hope.
The video shared on their social media (@elvita062) has touched thousands. In it, they summarize the last five years of their life, from starting to work under humble conditions in 2021, to finally achieving the dream that has driven them from the beginning in 2023: to hold their child in their arms again. Since then, the lives of mother and child have been filled with memorable moments together in the United States.
Each image from the early years tells a story of sacrifice. From the first days in a simple home and in the kitchen of a restaurant, to emotional video calls filled with tears, visits to Cuba, and finally, the reunion. “Every step… every achievement I have accomplished in this wonderful country has always been with you in mind, my son,” he wrote with emotion.
The video is not just a personal testimony. It is also a mirror reflecting many Cuban migrant mothers who silently endure the pain of separation. Accompanied by the message "I silenced many mouths without saying a single word" , its publication received an overwhelming amount of support and empathy on social media.
Messages like “A mother never abandons her child” or “Only those of us who made that decision know how we came out of there with our hearts torn in half” reflect how her story represents thousands of women who have had to leave everything behind to offer a better future.
Among the responses, there are mothers who still hope to reunite with their children, women who are going through similar experiences, and individuals who recognize the immense value behind such tough decisions. “God gives the strength to fight for them,” wrote one user. Another confessed: “You made me cry. Only a mother knows how hard it is to leave and be apart for a while”.
With this moving visual narrative, Elvita not only managed to unite her family. She also raised her voice, without raising it, for all the Cuban mothers who have been unjustly judged. She did this not by responding with words, but through actions. Because there are truths that do not need explanation, and loves that do not require defense.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Migration of Cuban Mothers
Why do some Cuban mothers decide to emigrate without their children?
Many Cuban mothers emigrate alone with the hope of building a better future for their children. The decision to leave their children in Cuba is painful and challenging, but it is often made with the intention of settling abroad and creating the necessary conditions for their children to join them later. The economic and political situations in Cuba also contribute to these decisions, as many families seek to escape misery and provide better opportunities for their children.
What challenges do Cuban mothers who emigrate alone face?
Cuban mothers who migrate alone face the pain of separation and the uncertainties of the migration process. They often have to adapt to new cultures and economies, work in low-paying jobs, and deal with criticism and judgment from those who do not understand their decision. Additionally, they face bureaucracy and the time required to reunite their families, which can take years.
How do social media react to the stories of Cuban migrant mothers?
Social media often serves as a space of empathy and support for Cuban migrant mothers. Stories of reunions and sacrifices shared on platforms like TikTok elicit emotional reactions and a sense of community among those experiencing similar situations. However, they can also face criticism from individuals who do not fully understand the reasons behind their migration decisions.
What impact does separation have on the children of Cuban migrant mothers?
The separation from their mothers can be emotionally challenging for the children of Cuban migrants. These children experience feelings of loneliness, sadness, and longing for reunion. However, mothers often maintain contact through video calls and other means until they can finally reunite, which helps to mitigate some of the emotional impact.
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