A brief scene, recorded at home and shared on social media, has gone viral due to its heartfelt nature. In the video, Cuban influencer Lucy María González Machado, known on platforms as @the_zhou_fam, is seen teaching her young son some of the most authentic expressions of Cuban street language, from Italy, where she lives with her family.
Amidst laughter, repetitions, and confusing phrases, the boy tries to keep up with his mother as she gracefully and affectionately throws typical Cuban neighborhood expressions at him: "dude, what's up", "be serious now", "stop joking with me", "cut the nonsense".
The scene, amusing and endearing, has captivated several users who identify with the desire to preserve their Cuban identity while in exile.
Lucy, an emigrant, mother, and wife, has gained popularity by showcasing everyday aspects of her family life outside of Cuba, and this time she has struck a very special chord by blending humor, tenderness, and identity.
In the video, she can be heard saying playfully:
Hey, what's up, man? Hey, what's up, man? What's up? Get serious over there, what's up, man? What's up?
The child, caught between imitation and confusion, replies:
—What's up, buddy?
This exchange goes beyond being humorous and becomes a gesture of cultural transmission. In the phrase "asere, qué bola," there is not just a greeting. There is neighborhood, there is memory, there is style.
In "ponte serio ahí," the tone of thousands of Cuban mothers is evident. And in "la talla" and "la guara," a slang persists that is integral to the popular spirit of Cuba.
In times when exile has become a common backdrop for many Cuban families, moments like this remind us that identity is also passed down through words, games, and affection.
The video has sparked hundreds of reactions among social media users, who celebrate the scene with humor and nostalgia:
"Ready to head to the field to fight for the best plantains!"
"We are going to enroll that child in the primary school in Guanabacoa so he can learn discipline."
"Little by little, because being Cuban is not easy at all."
“I love their serious faces, respect, respect jejeje, blessings!”
Frequently Asked Questions about the Transmission of Cuban Culture in Exile
Why is it important for Cubans to use expressions like "asere, qué bola" abroad?
The use of expressions like "asere, qué bola" is important because it represents a way to keep Cuban cultural identity alive in exile. These phrases encapsulate the history, memory, and sense of belonging of Cubans, serving as a connection to their homeland and community.
How does emigration affect the cultural identity of Cubans?
Emigration can challenge the cultural identity of Cubans, as they face the need to adapt to new cultures while trying to preserve their own. However, many find ways to maintain their traditions and language through family and social networks, as seen in the widespread sharing of videos celebrating Cuban culture.
What role do social networks play in the preservation of Cuban culture abroad?
Social media plays a crucial role in preserving Cuban culture abroad, as it allows emigrants to share and disseminate their traditions, language, and experiences with a wide audience. This strengthens the sense of community and helps keep cultural identity alive despite the distance.
What reactions does the use of Cuban language generate on social media?
The use of Cuban language on social media generates a blend of humor, nostalgia, and pride among users. While some find enjoyment in the typical expressions, others feel an emotional connection as they reminisce about their culture and homeland, often leading to debates about identity and belonging.
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