A young Cuban, known on TikTok as @lisbeth.diaz.mena (Lisbeth la cubana), shared a video in which she reflects on the sacrifices involved in emigrating and starting a new life in Spain.
“When a Cuban says ‘no, I want to leave my country’ are you willing to sacrifice everything you had and start over like this?,” he asks in the recording, before describing scenes from his daily life: “Lunchtime, leaving one job and waiting for another, having lunch in a park, without family, without anyone to accompany you, without a guide; if you are willing to do this, come over here, we are waiting for you.”
The young woman assures that it is about a “sanguine future, a prosperous future for you and your family,” but warns that “don’t think the path is easy, that there won’t be obstacles, you just have to have faith, and work very hard. I am waiting for you here. All those who have the mentality of moving forward through hard work, welcome to the Spanish dream.”
The video sparked an intense debate in the comments. Among the supportive messages, phrases such as "But worse is being in Cuba; for us, the Spanish dream is wonderful and gives us life. Just the thought of achieving Spanish citizenship is unique for us; it means a letter of freedom. You have no idea of the great joy it is to have been born Spanish," and "All emigrants go through a very tough transition, but we must be very happy and grateful to the country that opens its doors for us to have clearly what communism in Cuba never gave us. I am very fortunate to already be a citizen of this great and wonderful country," can be read.
Other comments questioned the idea of the "Spanish dream": "Well, what a Spanish dream it is, if there’s nothing but debt; in Spain, it's difficult even for the Spaniards themselves, we can't even make it to the end of the month, that was before," or "let them speak for me; you describe the job situation in this country—precarious work that exploits you and low salaries compared to other countries, everything is very expensive, and let's not even mention the housing which is extremely costly; I wish you luck, you're going to need it for your dream." There were also critical reactions regarding the situation on the island: "sacrifice everything I had? Hahaha, are you referring to the 15-hour blackouts and more?" or "do you miss the blackouts, mosquitoes, contaminated water, and yucca bread?"
Amid the discussion, other messages emphasized the importance of faith, effort, and family as pillars to support the migration process.
Following the response to that first video, Lisbeth published a second recording to clarify her words. “I don’t live on the street; I have an apartment here in Alicante. My message was simply constructive. When I talked about leaving everything in Cuba, I meant family, customs, friends, beliefs, and many Cubans know what I’m talking about,” she explained. She added, “I left primarily because I want to give my children a future. I left for a visa, and I am very, very happy in this beautiful city where I live, which is Alicante. I’m in love with this city; I always tell my friends that it resembles Matanzas a lot.”
In this new intervention, she expressed gratitude for the supportive messages and criticized the division among emigrants: “It is very sad that among us compatriots we are doing these ugly things instead of helping each other, because I have always said that in unity there is strength.” The creator ended her message on a hopeful note: “I am here to move forward, waiting for my family, and when that happens, the change will be radical because I have great faith in the one and only, who is God, because without Him, no one exists, and in this country, He has taught me, and I am happy and content.”
In this second video, she mainly received messages of encouragement. "You are amazing, Lisbe, don’t back down, you are great and God is with you," wrote one user, while another noted, "Alicante is one of the best cities to live in Spain, forget the negative, keep going because you are a light, a hug and we’ll see each other soon." There were also supportive comments like "at first it’s a bit tough, but you are a fighter, and you will see that you will get through it."
Lisbeth's testimony adds to a growing wave of reflections shared by Cubans in Spain through TikTok. Just a few days ago, the creator @carmen03876 responded to a xenophobic comment, stating that she had "been here for two years and since I arrived, I have been working." The young woman explained that she arrived "as a Spanish citizen" and made it clear that she maintains her Cuban identity in a video that also went viral .
In Gran Canaria, the Cuban @saycu_ celebrated her independence from having her first home after emigrating alone. “I came here alone from my country and started my life from scratch,” she emotionally stated in a recording in which she showed her small residence, a testimony that reflects the challenges and achievements of those who start anew in Spanish lands .
Also in Murcia, the creator @el.profesor.cubano shared his everyday experience by comparing an issue with his phone company in Spain to the limitations of the island. “In Cuba, everything is owned by the government, absolutely everything,” he stated, emphasizing the freedom of service choice compared to the state control that millions still endure in Cuba .
These testimonies reflect the diversity of experiences and perceptions that Cubans encounter when emigrating to Spain, amidst sacrifices, challenges, and the quest for a better future.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Experience of Emigrating from Cuba to Spain
Is it easy for Cubans to adapt to life in Spain?
No, adapting to life in Spain can be a challenging process for Cubans. Many face difficulties such as changing customs, loneliness, and the need to work hard to make ends meet. The economic and social reality in Spain can be very different from the expectations held before emigrating.
What challenges do Cubans face when emigrating to Spain?
Cubans face multiple challenges when emigrating to Spain, including precarious jobs, low wages, and high living costs. Additionally, they must adapt to a new cultural and social environment, which can lead to an emotionally complicated process. The separation from family and the support network is also a significant challenge.
What advantages does Spain offer to Cuban emigrants?
Spain offers advantages such as an accessible public health system, safety, and a more relaxed lifestyle. For many Cubans, the opportunity to obtain Spanish citizenship is also a significant attraction, as it represents a more stable future and the possibility of living with more freedoms than in Cuba.
How does emigration affect family relationships among Cubans?
Emigration can create tensions in family relationships, particularly due to expectations for financial support from abroad. Many emigrants feel the pressure to send remittances to their families in Cuba, which can be a significant economic and emotional burden. However, there are also those who view this as a personal commitment and a way to assist their loved ones.
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