Cuban in Mexico earns applause for criticizing this about other Cuban creators: "We came here to work."

Cuban José Palacios criticizes creators who discredit Mexican food on TikTok, emphasizing the importance of respect and hard work. His message has received positive support for its conciliatory approach.

Cuban in MexicoPhoto © TikTok / @josepalacios794

Amid the endless trends flooding TikTok, a Cuban in Mexico decided to raise his voice to put a stop to content that, according to him, is damaging the image of his fellow countrymen. José Palacios, known on social media as @josepalacios794, went viral by delivering a direct message against other Cuban creators who participate in videos where they criticize or "classify" Mexican food.

In his video, Palacios made it clear that he is not here for games: “This is not about classifying food; it's about working to help the family.” He explained that it makes no sense to evaluate a cuisine that is not part of your culture and that, furthermore, enjoys global recognition. “I have never gone to the table of my Mexican friends to tell them that I don't like tortillas,” he pointed out, emphasizing that respect is the foundation of coexistence.

The Cuban also questioned a specific video by another creator in which she said, “I came from Cuba to teach Mexicans manners.” For him, such phrases only create friction and promote moral superiority. He even acknowledged that he learned many expressions of courtesy, such as saying “thank you” or “please,” while living in Mexico.

His stance garnered a wave of positive reactions. Dozens of users, both Mexican and Cuban, praised him for his humility and common sense. Comments like “a Cuban with his feet on the ground” or “thank you for respecting my Mexico” were repeated time and again. Many agreed that this is the kind of discourse that should go viral.

Palacios went further and warned that these types of trends could have a "boomerang effect" in real life: "I've been living in Mexico for two years and I see that employment for Cubans is declining... I believe it's because of these very things." For him, when a migrant seeks to provoke controversy, it ultimately affects the entire community.

The message also sparked a debate about the responsibility of migrant creators. Should they use social media to connect and express gratitude, or to gain views through confrontation? Palacios chooses the former and encourages his colleagues to "create beautiful content" that brings cultures closer together, rather than pitting them against each other.

On a platform where sensationalism often prevails, this Cuban has shown that empathy and respect can also go viral. And judging by the applause he received, many are ready to follow his example.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Integration of Cubans in Mexico and the Use of Social Media

What criticism did José Palacios make about other Cuban creators in Mexico?

José Palacios criticized other Cuban creators for categorizing Mexican food and for fostering cultural friction instead of focusing on work and mutual respect. Palacios emphasized that labeling a cuisine that is foreign to one's own culture is unproductive and can harm the image of Cubans abroad.

Why does José Palacios warn about a "boomerang effect" for Cubans in Mexico?

Palacios warns that controversial trends on social media can harm the Cuban community in Mexico, as they may generate a bad reputation that affects job opportunities for migrants. According to him, provoking controversy can make integration and access to employment more difficult.

What is José Palacios' stance on the content that migrants should create on social media?

José Palacios promotes the creation of content that brings cultures closer and shows gratitude towards the country that welcomes migrants, rather than seeking views through confrontation. His message focuses on empathy and respect as fundamental values for living harmoniously together.

How has José Palacios' stance been received by the public?

José Palacios' stance has been widely supported by both Mexicans and Cubans, who appreciate his humility and common sense. His message has been viewed as a positive example that should be more frequently shared on social media.

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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.