Too much Cuban influence? A Cuban responds to those who criticize living in Miami due to the large Cuban community

A Cuban woman in Miami defends her identity in a viral video, criticizing those who reject the city because of its Cuban community. She asserts that emigrating does not mean giving up on her roots.

Cuban in MiamiPhoto © TikTok / @rosabelyvalentina2

A Cuban woman residing in Miami has set social media ablaze with a video in which she responds, without holding back, to those who say that they don't like living in that city because it's "full of Cubans". Her message, filled with identity and pride, has become popular among the Cuban community.

The TikTok user @rosabelyvalentina2 begins her video with a gesture of disbelief: “Pardon?”. She then delivers her critique: “I am amazed when I hear people saying they wouldn’t live in Miami because it’s full of Cubans.”

Rosabel argues that emigrating does not mean denying who we are. “We are fleeing from hunger, misery, uncertainty... but we are not fleeing from our race, our customs, or our people,” she reflects in the video that has already received dozens of supportive comments.

Far from feeling ashamed, she insists she feels comfortable surrounded by her own: “I do live in Miami and I like living here. Because at every corner, in every greeting or meal, there’s a little piece of who I am, and I don't want to lose that. I am proudly Cuban.”

Reactions came quickly. "Proudly Cuban too, I love Miami, I cherish my roots," commented a follower. Others applauded her authenticity and agreed that the issue is not the "cubaneo," but rather the lack of identity in some individuals.

Rosabel concludes her message with a widely shared phrase: “No matter how they dress, speak, or where they live, they will never stop being Cuban.”

Frequently asked questions about the Cuban community in Miami and its cultural identity

Why do some criticize living in Miami for being full of Cubans?

Some people have expressed that they do not like living in Miami because it is "full of Cubans," which has generated responses of pride and identity from the Cuban community residing there. Many individuals, such as the TikTok user @rosabelyvalentina2, argue that living surrounded by their culture and traditions is a way to maintain their identity, despite having emigrated.

How does the Cuban community in Miami feel about its cultural identity?

The Cuban community in Miami often feels a strong pride in its roots. Living in Miami allows many Cubans to keep their customs and culture alive, which they see as essential to maintaining their identity. The presence of Cuban cultural elements in the city, such as food and language, makes them feel more comfortable and connected to their origins.

What challenges does the Cuban community in Miami face regarding housing?

One of the main challenges is the high cost of housing. Many Cubans in Miami find it difficult to acquire their own home, which has led some to consider moving to more affordable places like Cape Coral. However, these areas also present their own challenges, such as a lack of employment or infrastructure issues.

What are the criticisms of Cubans who emigrate and then idealize their life in Cuba?

Some criticisms focus on the perception that these individuals do not value opportunities abroad. There is questioning as to why they decided to emigrate if they believe they lived better in Cuba. This discourse generates debate, as many emigrants assert that, although they face challenges abroad, the opportunities and quality of life are better than in Cuba.

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Izabela Pecherska

Editor at CiberCuba. Graduated in Journalism from the Rey Juan Carlos University of Madrid, Spain. Editor at El Mundo and PlayGround.