A Cuban in the United States lashed out in a TikTok video against her family on the island, arguing that they are not satisfied with the help she can provide, but rather constantly demand expensive items and brand-name products.
“I just blocked the only sister I have who lives in Cuba. I don't know if this happens to all nationalities or if the audacity of people in Cuba is unique,” began saying the Cuban TikToker who identifies on social media as @mirelis_narraciones.
“It's not enough for them that you send them food, that you send them the paper they use in the bathroom, that you keep their phone charged, the basics; for them, the basics are not enough, they want luxury,” he asserted.
The content creator recounted that when her sister asks for something, it comes with specific demands. For example, her nephew's phone broke and they requested a Samsung brand phone with certain specifications, because according to them, that's the good one, the one used in Cuba, and the model that her nephew's friends have.
"It's not about what you can, my sister, what you have available, what you can buy, no, it's a brand, it's a style, it's a number, it's the latest.", reflected the Cuban abroad.
When he wanted to buy some sneakers for his nephew for school and chose a strong, black pair from Puma that cost over 30 dollars, his sister asked for some Vans because those are also the ones that are worn on the island.
Oh my sister, you know what’s in style here, Prada, which I love, but you know who wears it, the ones who can afford it, because with my money I have to get the one from Zara to be able to send your little shoes, the ones for the baby, the ones for mom, and even medicine for the neighbor,” she said with irony and sarcasm.
The problem with people in Cuba is that Cuba is in a constant state of blackout. It’s not about the basics; whatever you can do, you can’t get caught up, you can’t fall behind, you can’t have a tight month because they demand and demand from you with expectations (...) There comes a point where you become the tourist and they, the family, become the hustlers, she added without hesitation.
The video went viral on TikTok and generated a lot of conflicting opinions, as some identify with her situation and assert that they experience very similar situations daily criticizing their relatives in Cuba; others accused her of airing her personal problems on social media and questioned her for blocking her sister, arguing that she should always help her family.
Frequently Asked Questions about Family Tensions and Expectations for Support from Abroad
Why do some Cubans in the United States feel pressure from their family members in Cuba?
Many Cubans in the United States feel pressure because, although they make sacrifices to send help to their relatives in Cuba, these relatives do not always show gratitude. The lack of reciprocity and unrealistic expectations about life abroad create family tensions. This situation is common and generates frustration among emigrants who must balance their own challenges with the demands of their relatives on the island.
What are the common criticisms towards families in Cuba who ask for help from abroad?
Common criticisms of family members in Cuba include that some have excessive expectations and demand luxury products instead of settling for the basic items that emigrants can send. This creates tensions, as those living abroad also face their own economic and personal challenges. The perception of being seen as "ATM machines" is a common complaint among emigrants.
Why do some Cubans abroad decide to block or cut contact with their relatives in Cuba?
Some Cubans abroad choose to block or cut contact with their family members in Cuba due to the constant pressure to provide financial assistance and luxury goods, which creates frustration and resentment. The lack of gratitude and betrayal of trust are factors that lead to these difficult decisions, as emigrants must prioritize their own challenges and well-being.
How does emigration affect the relationship between Cubans in the United States and their families on the island?
Emigration impacts the relationship between Cubans in the United States and their families on the island by introducing economic and emotional pressures. Emigrants must balance their own adaptation challenges with the demands and expectations of their relatives in Cuba. This can lead to misunderstandings and resentments, as well as create a feeling of economic obligation toward their relatives that often becomes unsustainable.
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