The Cuban user @r_abocado, residing in Uruguay, shared on TikTok a response to a comment suggesting he should return to his country if he didn't like the current one. "If you don't like it, Cuba is better," wrote an internet user identified as "Virgilio Brasilero" on one of his previous videos.
In the new clip, the young man chose to respond publicly with a firm and respectful message. “I’m going to answer you in the most polite way possible, even though I shouldn’t. If you were Uruguayan, I feel like the name Uruguayan would be too big for you, because the Uruguayans I know, the true Uruguayans, are good people, respectful, who don’t harm others and don’t interfere in other people’s lives. Therefore, it goes without saying that your comment is quite out of place. But if you are so bothered by my living in your country, in case you live here, and if not, I don’t know what you’re opining or what you’re talking about. I’m not going anywhere, because Uruguay has given me the opportunity for a better life, to live better, and to move forward. So no matter how much you want it, I’m not going anywhere. I live here, I will continue living here, and I love Uruguay,” he said in the video.
The post, recorded in Montevideo, sparked a wave of reactions on TikTok, amassing hundreds of supportive comments. Most users, both Uruguayans and Cubans, praised the tone of the response and rejected the original discriminatory message.
Among the highlighted messages are expressions of support such as, “I am Uruguayan and I stand with Cuba, long live a free Cuba,” “Welcome to Uruguay, proud to be Uruguayan,” “Keep going, my friend. Cuba has been living under a dictatorship for 60 years,” “Not all Uruguayans are like that. You keep moving forward,” “Uruguay is greatness. For those of us who are Uruguayan. Don’t pay much attention to those who bother you; they want to live without doing anything,” “I am Uruguayan and I am very proud that my country welcomes people from other countries, especially if they feel good here,” and “Thank you for choosing my country.” There were also comments that celebrated his poise and composure: “Very good comeback to the person who disrespected you, welcome,” and “That’s speaking with dignity. Perfect response.”
The creator himself answered some questions from his followers, clarifying that the user who attacked him had made offensive comments on previous posts. In explaining the origin of the misunderstanding, he revealed that his previous video only discussed an unusual weather phenomenon in Cuba: fog.
Cubans in Uruguay: Between Adaptation and Visibility
In recent months, numerous testimonies from Cubans in Uruguay have gained notoriety on TikTok and other social media platforms. Stories like that of the YouTuber Frank El Makina —who detailed his monthly expenses in Maldonado, including remittances to Cuba because “otherwise, our family won't eat”— or the story of a young woman who expressed her love for Uruguay and the cultural differences she has faced, have gone viral.
It has also sparked debate over the testimony of a Cuban doctor who shared her impressions about practicing medicine in the Uruguayan system, highlighting structural differences with medical practice on the island, such as the lack of a fixed salary and the operation of the emergency system.
Another Cuban, in a video that moved hundreds, celebrated the small daily achievements in her adaptation process: “I am not where I want to be yet, but I'm no longer where I was before.”
These experiences, shared by various Cuban users, reveal a common narrative characterized by gratitude towards Uruguay, the economic challenges of starting from scratch, the need to send remittances, and the process of integrating into a new society. In many cases, they have also helped to highlight the tensions that can arise when migrants publicly express their opinions about the host country.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Migration of Cubans to Uruguay and Their Experiences
Why do Cubans choose to emigrate to Uruguay?
Many Cubans choose to emigrate to Uruguay in search of a better quality of life, job stability, and opportunities they cannot find in Cuba. The economic and political situation on the island has led many to seek destinations where they can live with greater freedom and dignity, as is the case with Uruguay.
What have been the experiences of Cubans in Uruguay according to their testimonies on social media?
Experiences vary, but many Cubans in Uruguay express gratitude towards the country for the opportunities provided. Although they face challenges such as the high cost of living and cultural adaptation, they appreciate the safety and the possibility of living and working legally. Testimonials on social media reflect both the challenges and the joys of starting anew in a different country.
What challenges do Cubans face when they arrive in Uruguay?
Cubans migrating to Uruguay face various challenges, such as securing formal employment, adapting to a new cultural environment, and coping with the cost of living. Despite these challenges, many find in Uruguay a place where they can progress and live with greater freedom than in Cuba.
How has Uruguayan society reacted to the migration of Cubans?
The Uruguayan society has shown various reactions to the arrival of Cubans. In general, there is a positive reception and many Uruguayans express support and welcome to the migrants. However, there are also tensions and criticisms, especially when cultural differences and opinions about the host country are discussed.
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