Three Cuban immigrants who were released by ICE with electronic ankle monitors decided to take the experience with humor.
In a video circulating on TikTok, one of them joked about the dangers of a lightning storm while pointing to the device on his ankle.
“Pay attention here, a lot of immigration advice, but they didn't tell us what to do when the thunder starts. This thing… is going to electrocute us,” the Cuban said with a laugh, accompanied by two women.
“This is a photovoltaic park for electric bicycles, damn... What do we do when it starts to thunder?”, he added, laughing heartily.
The relaxed and humorous tone of the video sparked a wave of reactions in the comments.
Cuban users and people from other countries celebrated the resilience, charisma, and joy of the Cuban people in the face of adversity.
Humor, courage, and blessings: Notable Reactions
Cuban resilience
"Only a Cuban can turn a shackle into a reason to laugh. Because that’s who we are… with a wounded soul, but a steadfast smile. May God bless you and give you strength, for what today seems like a mockery of the system, tomorrow will just be another story to tell… with freedom at our feet and pride in our chest."
"We Cubans cry on the inside, but on the outside, we are always joyful. That is the attitude."
"From the rafters of '94 to the i220a, we are the same. Different problems, but the essence is the same."
"Cubans are unique; we give each other a hard time."
"That's how we Cubans are: nothing stops us or gets us down. For us, nothing is difficult."
Faith and hope
"They will soon overcome that. That's the attitude: always stay positive. Nothing can take away their joy."
"In tough times, keep a good face; that's just temporary. Blessings."
"That's how it should be taken, and let God work."
"Nothing takes away their smile. God bless them, everything will turn out well."
"May God allow them to have their documents soon."
Emotion and reality
"Amidst laughter, I let a couple of tears fall."
"At first, it's hard to accept; people look at you poorly without knowing the sacrifice we make to live with that in our foot."
"How sad to see my people with electric shackles."
Although the situation of wearing an electronic ankle bracelet after being released by ICE may seem humiliating or painful, these Cubans have chosen to face it with a smile, a sense of humor, and solidarity.
The video has not only gone viral for its comedic tone but also for the powerful image it conveys: people who, even with symbolic chains around their ankles, walk with their heads held high, faith in their hearts, and a laugh ready to burst forth.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Situation of Cubans Released with Electronic Monitors by ICE
Why does ICE place electronic shackles on some released Cubans?
Electronic shackles are used by ICE as a monitoring measure to ensure that immigrants comply with their immigration appointments and possible legal proceedings. It is an alternative to detention in immigration centers.
How have Cubans reacted to the use of electronic shackles?
Despite the situation, Cubans have chosen to face the use of electronic shackles with humor and resilience. They have shared videos on social media where they laugh at the situation, demonstrating their ability to turn difficult moments into more bearable experiences.
What reactions have the videos of Cubans in shackles generated on social media?
The videos have sparked a wave of positive reactions on social media, highlighting the resilience, charisma, and joy of Cubans in the face of adversity. Many users have expressed admiration for the ability of Cubans to find humor even in challenging situations.
What are the main concerns of Cubans released with electronic shackles?
One of the concerns is safety during thunderstorms, as some Cubans have joked about the risk of wearing an electronic device on their ankle during adverse weather conditions.
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