A Cuban living in Mexico shared an emotional video in which he reflects on what it means to live with freedom, having grown up in an environment marked by the fear of expression in Cuba. His testimony has moved thousands of people on social media, both within and outside the Aztec country.
"I thank #Mexico for allowing me to be and feel with #freedom. This was impossible in #Cuba. Mexicans, let’s all take care of this gift from God," he wrote while sharing the video. In it, he states: "As a Cuban in Mexico, I am constantly amazed by the different air that is breathed when one can speak without fear." He adds that in his new environment, he can express himself without fear: "Here, every word I say does not have to first pass through the filter of fear, nor hide behind metaphors to survive."
According to their explanation, freedom of expression should not be an abstract concept, but rather an everyday experience that allows people to be authentic. They express gratitude for the ability to talk about what hurts and what inspires, in a country where, despite the wounds, there are spaces for debate, creation, and even protest. “In Cuba, I learned to be silent, but here in Mexico, I am learning to speak,” they affirm. Finally, they issue a warning to those who take this possibility for granted: “Perhaps you are so accustomed to having it that you don’t realize how valuable it is.”
The reactions in the comments have been largely positive. Many Mexicans appreciated his words, pointed out that they often do not realize the freedoms they enjoy, and welcomed him to the country. Some highlighted the contrast with previous eras or recalled that freedom of expression is the result of historical social struggles. There were also reflections on the need to protect these rights so that they are not lost, as well as responses from other Cubans who feel identified with the experience of rediscovering the power of speech outside their home country.
This testimony adds to other experiences of Cubans living in Mexico who have made their stories of adaptation and contrast with life on the island go viral. A young woman recently shared a series of practical tips for migrants, urging not to idealize migration and to prioritize personal well-being in order to make progress. Another Cuban explained in a video that the first time she could buy something with her own money was in Mexico, and described the basic shortages she faced in Cuba, from the lack of electricity to limited access to clothing or food.
There have also been testimonies comparing everyday experiences such as living on a limited budget or seeing a luxury car for the first time. Many of these accounts highlight how what is inaccessible in Cuba is part of everyday life in Mexico. One of the most popular has been that of a creator who stated that “in Mexico, one has and can; in Cuba, one cannot”, sparking an intense debate among gratitude, criticism, and calls to remember that those freedoms are not automatic.
These testimonies reflect a growing phenomenon: the need for those who have emigrated to narrate their new realities, not only as a form of catharsis but as a way to raise awareness, connect with others, and, above all, to value freedom as an act of life.
Frequently Asked Questions about Freedom of Expression and the Lives of Cubans in Mexico
Why does the Cuban in Mexico value freedom of expression so highly?
The Cuban in Mexico values freedom of expression because in Cuba he lived in fear of speaking out, due to the censorship and repression of the regime, which prevents him from being authentic and speaking without fear. In Mexico, he finds an environment where he can express himself freely, share his opinions, and be part of an open debate, something that was not possible in his homeland.
How has the testimony of the Cuban living in Mexico impacted social media?
The testimony of the Cuban has moved thousands of people on social media, who have reacted positively, appreciating his message about the importance of freedom of expression and the need to safeguard it. His video has sparked a debate about the liberties that are often taken for granted and the necessity of protecting them to prevent their loss.
What differences do Cubans find between living in Mexico and in Cuba?
Cubans in Mexico find significant differences in terms of freedom and opportunities. In Mexico, they can enjoy basic freedoms such as freedom of expression, access to a variety of products and services, and the possibility of improving their quality of life. This contrasts with the shortages and restrictions they face in Cuba under the socialist regime.
Why is it important to protect freedom of expression according to the Cuban in Mexico?
Protecting freedom of expression is vital because it allows individuals to be authentic and express what they feel and think. The Cuban in Mexico warns that this freedom should not be taken for granted, as it is a right that enables debate, creation, and protest, and its absence can lead to repression and forced silence, as happens in Cuba.
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