The Cuban Johnny Blandón González, who lives in Chile, posted a video on TikTok (@johnny.blandon.go) where he shares something that has surprised him a lot, and pleasantly, about the Chileans.
"I was surprised that they are supportive; that’s something I didn't realize because in Cuba I was told that outside of Cuba, outside of communism, nobody was supportive, nobody helped you, everyone was bad, cold… that's what my teachers and my people told me, I swear… but no, here in Chile, no, my people, Chileans are supportive," he said.
He recalled the fires that "destroyed many homes, there were deaths, injuries, and people were left with nothing," and how in his building they set up "a table for people to donate whatever they could, some aid." He stated that at first, "he saw few things" and wondered, "but who is going to help if people don’t have…?" However, "by the time the deadline was approaching… that table was filled, filled, filled with items… people giving away what they had to donate, that’s solidarity… it doesn’t matter the political color, it doesn’t matter if you’re on the left or the right… when it comes to helping, Chileans are supportive, and that’s something that surprised me a lot and that I hold here in my heart."
Johnny stated that he has also received help: “They have gifted me, invited me to their homes... especially the people from the south who have told me to come by and stay at their house, don’t pay anything. That is solidarity, my people, that’s having a beautiful heart, and you Chileans have it... here’s a happy Cuban in Chile, my people, love to you all, a big kiss.”
The video sparked hundreds of reactions. Some comments say: "Solidarity is in our DNA," "Chile helps Chile," "Being supportive is in our blood," "In disasters, you will see the true face of Chile… it’s love for our neighbors," "We Chileans, when it’s time to help, we just help, plain and simple," "The poorer we are, the more solidarity we show," and "We love you even more, welcome beautiful Cuban."
In a previous video, Johnny recalled his daughter's reaction in a Chilean supermarket: “Dad, are we rich?”, surprised by the abundance of products, which contrasted with her experience in Cuba. He has shared that in his experience as a migrant in the country, “once you say ‘I’m Cuban,’ you feel the warmth instantly… that’s something I never thought I would experience here”.
Other Cuban migrants have shared similar testimonies. The doctor @eldrmulato showcased the variety of baby formulas available in Chile and said: “In Cuba, with a minimum wage of $5, you can't buy anything; the government gives you nothing, only hunger, misery, communism.” The creator @nauris_vlogs stated: “I arrived in Chile from Cuba almost two years ago and I became wealthy.” for having internet and efficient services.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Experience of Cubans in Chile and Solidarity in Times of Crisis
What has Johnny Blandón González's experience in Chile been like?
Johnny Blandón González has been pleasantly surprised by the solidarity of the Chileans. Despite being educated in Cuba with the belief that outside of communism people are not supportive, his experience in Chile has proven the opposite. He has received help and hospitality from many individuals, which has changed his perception and made him feel welcomed and appreciated in the country.
How do Cubans react to living in Chile?
Many Cubans, like Johnny, share testimonies of surprise and gratitude for the variety of products and services available in Chile. The abundance in supermarkets and the efficiency of services are aspects that stand out positively for Cuban migrants. They often contrast this experience with the shortages and limitations they faced in Cuba, which leads them to deeply appreciate the new opportunities and quality of life in Chile.
What does Johnny's testimony reveal about Chilean solidarity?
Johnny Blandón highlights Chilean solidarity as a human value that transcends political differences. He mentions how during the fires in Chile, the community came together to donate and assist those affected, demonstrating that solidarity is not limited by ideologies, but is an act of humanity present in the Chilean people.
What is the perception of freedom and access to goods in Chile for Cubans?
For Cubans who have migrated to Chile, like Johnny and others, freedom and access to a variety of goods are aspects they immensely value. These elements contrast with the limitations experienced in Cuba, where access to basic products and services is restricted. Their experience in Chile has allowed them to encounter a new reality where scarcity is not the norm and the freedom to choose is present in their daily lives.
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