A Cuban resident in the United States sparked controversy on TikTok after responding harshly to a user who asked for examples of people living better in Cuba than in the United States.
In the video shared on the account @youssel80, the man defiantly lists three reasons why, in his view, some Cubans on the island —especially those with money— enjoy better conditions than many emigrants in the U.S.
“It's simple, I'm only going to give you three examples so you won’t get upset, because it will upset you,” he begins to say.
He then argues: "The one who owns a house in Cuba truly owns it; yours here is not, and it never will be in your lifetime. The one who has a car bought it with cash; here you are paying a monthly installment, and if you don't pay it, goodbye car."
As a third point, add: “The one over there wakes up whenever he feels like it, and it's not like on the first day his account is empty, but here it is.”
Finally, he warns the interlocutor not to justify with the argument that rich Cubans are a minority. "We are talking about the person who has money in Cuba living 100 times better than you do here in China, because it’s clear that you don’t have a dollar," he concluded.
The video sparked a heated debate on social media, where some users agreed that the economic conditions of certain Cubans with resources on the island may surpass those of those who face a life of constant struggle in exile.
Others, on the other hand, criticized him for overlooking the harsh reality faced by the majority of the Cuban population, affected by inflation, power outages, and shortages of basic goods.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Living Conditions of Cubans in Cuba and the U.S.
Is it true that wealthy Cubans on the island live better than those who have emigrated to the U.S.?
Some Cubans with money on the island may have better economic conditions compared to emigrants who face a life of constant struggle in the U.S., according to the opinion of a Cuban in a viral video. However, this applies only to a privileged minority and does not reflect the reality of the majority of the Cuban population that suffers from inflation, power outages, and scarcity of basic goods.
What are the main criticisms of the idealization of life in Cuba by emigrants?
Critics focus on the fact that many of those who idealize their life in Cuba were supported from abroad and did not work, enjoying leisure time, but faced a lack of opportunities. Additionally, it is noted that the perception of living "better" may be influenced by nostalgia and family closeness, but does not reflect the limitations of freedom and resources on the island.
What challenges do Cuban emigrants face in the United States according to the testimonies?
Emigrants in the U.S. face high living costs, job insecurity, and the need to work long hours to make ends meet. Although the United States offers opportunities, these come with personal and financial sacrifices that can be overwhelming for those who hope to achieve stability quickly.
Why do some emigrated Cubans criticize those who ask for help from Cuba?
The criticism arises from the perception that some residents in Cuba take advantage of the solidarity of emigrants, constantly expecting remittances and assistance without showing genuine interest in the situation of those abroad. This has sparked a debate about the emotional and financial pressure that Cubans outside the island feel.
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