A video published by the Cuban user @lia.hernandez771 on TikTok has reignited the debate over the deterioration of public spaces in Cuba, showcasing the deplorable condition of a children's playground. In the footage, the young woman walks through the visibly neglected area while delivering a stinging critique of the state of these recreational spaces on the island.
"Such are the parks in Cuba," he says at the beginning of the video, while showing swings without backs, rusted and dangerous, broken concrete structures, and a dirt and stone floor that, he warns, poses a risk to children: "If a child falls here, they could get hurt." The metal slide is rusted with its ends raised, and the children's "boats" are destroyed. "This is not even half of what it used to be," he laments, reminiscing about his childhood in that same park.
The tiktoker closes the report by stating that this is not an isolated case: “All the parks in our country are in this condition,” and invites users to share their thoughts on the situation.
The video, which garnered hundreds of interactions within a few hours, sparked a wave of reactions, many tinged with nostalgia and sadness. One user recalled, "I used to go to that park a lot when I was little," while another lamented, "Oh my God, it looks like a cemetery." There were also those who proposed solutions, such as a comment suggesting that content creators come together to undertake a social initiative in the park.
It's not an isolated incident
This case adds to other similar complaints that have come to light in recent months. In May of last year, another Cuban highlighted the condition of Parque de las Madres in the Cotorro municipality of Havana, where mothers had to manually push rusted carousels and were forced to pay for their use. The structures, rusted and broken, resembled more of a post-apocalyptic scene than a children's playground. “If Hollywood sees it, they will buy it for a horror movie,” a user said at that time.
Another recent example is the children's playground at Parque Maceo, located along the Malecón in Havana, which users have described as a “ruin.” There, broken swings, unusable games, and accumulated trash dominated the scene. The young woman who recorded that video also expressed her nostalgia for the times when this place was a spot for children's recreation.
Despite government promises of restoration in spaces like Parque Lenin, ExpoCuba, and the National Zoo, daily reality reveals a picture of widespread neglect in Cuba's children's areas. Complaints persist on social media, where parents and citizens express their concern about the impact these conditions have on the island's children.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Deterioration of Playgrounds in Cuba
What is the current state of playgrounds in Cuba?
The playgrounds in Cuba are in a state of significant neglect. The structures are rusted, broken, and pose a risk to the children who play on them. This deterioration is not an isolated case but rather a reflection of the critical situation of recreational spaces on the island.
What are the consequences of the abandonment of playgrounds in Cuba for children?
The neglect of playgrounds has several consequences for children in Cuba. Poorly maintained recreational spaces can lead to accidents and injuries due to rusted and broken structures. Furthermore, the lack of upkeep in these areas impacts children's social and physical development, as it limits their opportunities for safe play and recreation.
What has the Cuban government done to improve playgrounds?
Despite government promises to restore spaces such as Lenin Park, ExpoCuba, and the National Zoo, the reality is that playgrounds continue to be in a state of widespread deterioration. The announced restoration efforts have not been effectively realized, perpetuating the situation of neglect.
Is there any community initiative to improve parks in Cuba?
Yes, some citizens have proposed community initiatives to improve the parks. For instance, on social media, users have suggested that content creators come together to engage in social work in the parks. However, these initiatives face challenges due to a lack of resources and institutional support.
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