A Cuban woman living in Mexico City went viral on TikTok after sharing an emotional video in which she celebrates, along with her family, the purchase of her first home in the country. The post sparked a wave of reactions, both supportive and critical, highlighting the social tensions surrounding the migration phenomenon in Mexico.
"Absolutely thrilled because we are achieving a milestone that only those who truly focus on what they want and are determined can accomplish," says the main character on her profile @la.china.color.ca as she showcases the entrance to her new home. In the video, she can be seen entering the apartment with excitement, accompanied by her mother, her partner, and her son.
"It's to show that all the staff coming from another country can achieve what they set out to do," adds the young woman's mother. The message is clear: with effort and sacrifice, migrants can also reach significant goals like acquiring their own home.
However, the post quickly attracted divided comments. While many users, both Cuban and Mexican, congratulated the family on their achievement, others questioned their right to purchase property in Mexican territory. Some even accused the migrants of "taking homes from Mexicans" and complained about the supposed benefits that, according to them, foreigners receive over the nationals.
In response to the criticisms, La China Color Canela —as the video’s author identifies herself on TikTok— replied firmly. “We are foreigners with permanent residency in Mexico. We have our RFC, we pay taxes, we have credit history, and we purchased our home through our own efforts,” she stated.
The case has become an example of perseverance, but also a catalyst for a broader debate on the integration of migrants in Mexico, structural racism, and housing insecurity.
In response to the flood of negative messages, the Cuban shared a second video in which she captures the moment of the signing, taking the opportunity to celebrate her achievement in the country once again and reaffirming her determination to continue making progress and reaching new goals.
The story of this Cuban family is not isolated. Other Cuban emigrants have recently shared their similar achievements on social media, becoming role models for overcoming challenges.
In March, a young Cuban in Texcoco celebrated the opening of his beauty studio two years after crossing the border. “Two years ago, I crossed, and today I'm folding the towels of our business,” he said in a viral video that showcased the transformation of his life.
Also in the United States, Claudia González shared in May the excitement of receiving the keys to her own home after 12 years in the country. “There will be many transformations here,” she said while showcasing her empty house during the first tour.
For her part, a Cuban with I-220A immigration status shared how she managed to buy her first property after living for three years in a trailer. “Many criticized me, but I achieved my American dream,” she stated.
These stories reflect the resilience and determination of thousands of Cubans who, despite adversity, manage to build a new life outside the island. Their testimonies, shared on social media, not only celebrate personal achievements but also create spaces for reflection on migration, rights, and coexistence in diverse societies.
Frequently asked questions about home purchases by Cuban migrants in Mexico
Why did the purchase of a house by a Cuban woman in Mexico generate debate?
The purchase of a house by a Cuban woman in Mexico sparked debate as it highlighted social tensions related to the migration phenomenon in the country. Some users criticized migrants for "taking houses away from Mexicans" and for receiving alleged benefits over nationals, while others praised the achievement as an example of hard work and perseverance.
What arguments did the Cuban migrants present to defend their right to buy property in Mexico?
Cuban migrants like La China Color Canela defended their right to purchase property in Mexico, arguing that they are foreigners with permanent residency, have their RFC, file taxes, and possess a credit history. They asserted that the purchase of their home was the result of their own efforts.
How has TikTok influenced the perception of Cuban migrants in Mexico?
TikTok has significantly influenced the perception of Cuban migrants in Mexico by providing a platform to share their experiences, achievements, and challenges. Success stories such as home purchases go viral, generating debates on integration, racism, and migrant rights, and offering a more human and resilient image of these communities.
What challenges do Cuban migrants face when trying to integrate into Mexican society?
Cuban migrants face several challenges when trying to integrate into Mexican society, such as discrimination, structural racism, and precarious housing conditions. The case of the Cuban woman who bought a house in Mexico illustrates these issues, as she received both congratulations and criticism for her achievement, reflecting the complex process of integration into a new country.
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