Returns to Cuba unexpectedly and her mother's reaction upon seeing her sparks criticism: "For that welcome, I might as well not go."

The return of a Cuban after more than two years sparked a debate on TikTok due to her mother's subdued reaction. Users were surprised by the lack of the typical emotion seen in these reunions.

Reunion of CubansPhoto © @lisandra_dundu / TikTok

The emotional return home of a Cuban woman after more than two years away from her mother has sparked a wave of comments on social media, but not for the expected tears or warm embrace. The unexpectedly restrained reaction of the mother has generated surprise and debate among TikTok users.

In the video published by the user @lisandra_dundu on the mentioned platform, the exact moment when the young woman arrives home in Cuba and reunites with her mother, whom she had not seen for more than two and a half years, is captured.

However, far from the overwhelming excitement that characterizes many of these viral reunions, the mother displays a calm reaction, showing no obvious signs of joy or surprise.

"I spent two years and six months waiting to hug you again, Mom," the young woman wrote in the video description, highlighting the long time she was away from her family.

The comments on the post arrived quickly, many of them with an ironic or critical tone regarding the woman's reaction. "My dog gets happier when I come home," wrote one user. Others were even harsher: "She didn't even open the door," "but the lady didn't seem very happy," and "I would turn around right there and not come back."

Despite the seemingly cold reaction, some users defended the mother, arguing that not everyone expresses their emotions in an effusive manner or that she may have been caught by surprise and didn't know how to react in that moment.

This type of video usually captures public interest by reflecting the emotional dimension of reunions between Cuban migrants and their loved ones, in a context marked by long family separations due to migration. In this case, however, it has been the absence of that emotion that has sparked conversation.

Frequently Asked Questions about Reactions in Family Reunions in Cuba

Why was the Cuban mother's reaction so unexpected?

The reaction of the Cuban mother was unexpected because, unlike the emotional family reunions that often go viral, she displayed a restrained and calm response. This sparked surprise and debate on social media, where many had anticipated a more effusive expression of joy.

How have social media reacted to the reunion of the Cuban mother with her daughter?

On social media, reactions have been mixed, with some users expressing criticism and others defending the mother. Some comments questioned the lack of visible emotion, while others argued that not everyone expresses their feelings in an effusive manner.

Why are Cuban family reunions so popular on TikTok?

Cuban family reunions are popular on TikTok because they reflect the emotional burden of separation due to migration. These videos showcase the intensity of emotions when reuniting with loved ones after long periods, resonating with those who are experiencing similar situations.

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Yare Grau

Originally from Cuba, but living in Spain. I studied Social Communication at the University of Havana and later graduated in Audiovisual Communication from the University of Valencia. I am currently part of the CiberCuba team as an editor in the Entertainment section.