The Cuban actress Maité Galbán has sparked a wave of reactions with a message posted this Sunday on TikTok, in which she reflects on the challenges she has faced since arriving in the United States. Her words, direct and without victimhood, resonated with thousands of people who have experienced the journey of immigration.
"I came to the United States with a very important part of my family, I arrived with the blessing of God, legally, meaning it was my choice to be in this country," she said at the beginning of the video (@maite.galban), in which she also responded to those who have judged or underestimated her on social media.
Galbán listed some of the comments he heard upon arriving in the U.S. and how he has been able to debunk them one by one with facts. "When I arrived in this country, they told me that if you came with small children and had to take care of them, you couldn't work, and we worked; (...) they told me that if I had never driven in Cuba, I couldn't drive, and I have had my driver's license for a year now."
He also addressed sensitive issues such as access to healthcare in the U.S. system: "I had my surgery, and I'm paying for it without asking a penny from anyone." And he firmly added, "Today in this country, I have achieved everything I have without asking anything from anyone."
The phrase that has circulated the most among her followers summarizes the spirit of the message: “All the things they told me were impossible, all of them, step by step, I have been achieving”.
The actress also directly addressed those who criticize her for what she posts on social media: “I am not someone to be pitied; I never have been (…) Don’t let anyone feel pity for you, and don’t pity yourself. (…) Get up and walk, because nobody is going to solve your life for you.” She was also firm with those telling her to go back to Cuba: “To everyone who says 'leave', I arrived legally (…) and to everyone who says 'come back'… I hope that those who don't have to come back are you.”
The video, shared from her account @maite.galban, has received hundreds of comments, mostly expressing support, admiration, and empathy.
"For all that and more, most of us have gone through, and we are overcoming it all with our determination and the will of God (...) and as for returning, nothing," wrote a user.
"My love, this country is the best in the world," commented another follower, while someone else stated, "Health and blessings, the rest will come gradually."
Some shared similar experiences as migrants. “I have missed four birthdays of my little one,” said one person. “I was told the same thing and I have moved forward, and I’m aiming for more,” wrote another.
A common message was one of admiration: “Congratulations, you are a warrior,” “Well said, I admire you,” or “You are a role model, ignore the naysayers.”
There were also critical comments. “That’s why private life is private; it shouldn’t be public,” expressed one user, to which others responded with solidarity: “People have zero to criticize,” “Don’t pay attention to those malicious tongues.”
The emotional response was overwhelming: many commented only with hearts, strength emojis, applause, or blessings. As one wrote: “Literally, you said it all. I take it as a reflection for life.”
The video that captured attention this Sunday was not an isolated post. Earlier, Galbán had shared two other equally profound and moving posts.
In one of them, visibly affected, she broke down in tears while talking about the hardships of emigrating and the distance from family: “Leaving Cuba and being away from family means going through moments like the one I am experiencing now (…) don’t think that when one emigrates, everything is happiness. If I had to choose, I would prefer to be with my loved ones.”
Later, with greater calmness, he published a more reflective video in which he encouraged those going through similar situations: “If you woke up today and you are healthy, and you have time, thank God (...) Don't stay crying in bed because life, unfortunately, is not a soap opera (...) We all have bad moments, but getting back up makes us stronger.”
Maité Galbán arrived in the United States in January 2024 as part of a family reunification process. Her arrival was announced by her friend and colleague Lily Bergues, who shared the emotional reunion on social media. "I'm here with my family, which is really big, and I'm so happy to have Lily close to me," said the actress, tearfully, in her first statements on American soil.
During the following months, she shared her first steps in exile and at the end of the year, she took an emotional account of her 2024, marked by changes, challenges, and lessons learned. She then expressed her gratitude for the support received: “Thank you to everyone who, without knowing me, encourages me.”
Today, with a firmer tone, Maité Galbán reaffirms her migratory journey, her independence, and her conviction that even what seemed impossible can be achieved. Her message has not only resonated on a personal level but has also opened up space for a conversation that continues to thrive among Cubans in exile.
Frequently Asked Questions about Maité Galbán and her migration experience in the U.S.
How has Maité Galbán faced the challenges of living in the U.S.?
Maité Galbán has managed to refute the negative comments she received upon arriving in the U.S. Through effort and dedication, she has succeeded in working while taking care of her children, obtained her driver's license, and paid for her surgery without financial assistance from others. Her focus has been to face each challenge with determination and show that the impossible can be achieved with hard work.
What message does Maité Galbán share with those who criticize her?
Maité Galbán responds to criticism with a message of independence and strength. She emphasizes that she is not a person to be pitied and encourages others not to let anyone underestimate them. Her stance is clear: she has chosen her path in the U.S. legally and is determined to move forward without letting criticism affect her.
What has the public's reaction been to Maité Galbán's message?
Maité Galbán's message has resonated with many migrants facing similar situations. She has received an outpouring of support and admiration on social media, with comments highlighting her strength and viewing her as a role model. Although there have also been criticisms, the majority of the responses have been positive, reflecting empathy and recognition of her effort and resilient attitude.
What experiences and reflections has Maité Galbán shared about emigration?
Maité Galbán has shared personal experiences about the hardships of emigrating and the distance from family. She has reflected on how difficult it is to be away from family and to rebuild a life in a new country, emphasizing that emigration is not always about happiness. However, she also conveys a message of hope and resilience, encouraging others to be grateful and not to give up in the face of adversity.
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