"Those who do not progress here do not progress anywhere. The problem is not Spain, it’s you, who does not adapt, who remains tied to the life you left behind."
With that direct statement, the Cuban user @marylu7879, based in Palencia, Aguilar de Campoo, dismantled on TikTok the negative narratives that, as she recounts, she often hears among other migrants about life in Spain.
"Living in Spain is disappointing; people are cold and arrogant, I can't stand living here," she says at the beginning of the video, quoting an outside opinion. But she quickly clarifies: "That's what many say, but my experience is different." From there, she shares a reflection that has struck a chord with Cubans both on the island and abroad.
"Coming from Cuba, I confirm every day that I am more than blessed; doors and opportunities have opened up for me here," she states. She emphasizes that she does not expect the country to adapt to her: "They are not going to change their dynamics for me, or for you." She also refuses to compare her current life with the one she left behind: "I do not compare this country with my own, because if I wanted that, I would have stayed there."
"It’s not the perfect country, that’s also true, but it opened its doors to me, so fewer complaints and more open eyes, because opportunities are out there; you just have to take advantage of them, plain and simple," he concludes.
His testimony has generated thousands of reactions on social media. Most comments support his stance: “Thank you for so much common sense,” “I applaud you, I think the same,” “That’s being grounded, without victimhood,” were some of the most frequently repeated responses. But there were also criticisms: “Not everyone has the same luck as you” or “Spain is not a paradise, there is racism and low-quality jobs.”
The debate highlights the contrast between those who see emigration as an opportunity, albeit with sacrifices, and those who face more daunting obstacles in their adaptation process.
A message that resonates among other Cubans
Marylu's video is not an isolated case. On TikTok and other social media platforms, more and more Cubans are sharing their experiences after emigrating, showcasing both the challenges and the small achievements that were unthinkable on the island.
The young @soyalicia_03 expressed her excitement upon visiting a KFC for the first time and said: “I never imagined I would be able to eat all this”, after ordering a full menu.
He also shared how he experienced his first day in Spain and stated that “it’s like in the movies” when visiting supermarkets, shops, and restaurants for the first time.
The creator @lesyanisportilla launched a reflection filled with pain and pointed out that “Cuba took away my freedom, my hope, the right to be able to speak”, asserting that she emigrated because she no longer saw hope for change on the island.
In the case of @walkys__, she managed to emigrate with her husband and daughter thanks to the Law of Democratic Memory and shared that “thanks to this opportunity, we were able to travel together”.
User @melany_mena14 defended her husband's decision to leave the United States to join her in Spain and explained that “we indulge in small luxuries that we couldn't afford in the U.S.”
On their part, @saycu_ celebrated a personal milestone and shared that “I came alone from my country and started my life here from scratch” after managing to rent their first home in Spain.
Other experiences urge us not to idealize the migration process. From Alicante, @lisbeth.diaz.mena warned that “don’t think that the path is easy, that obstacles won’t exist”, although she expressed gratitude for having found a space where she can build a better future.
The creator @carmen03876 firmly responded to a xenophobic comment and stated that “since I arrived I have been working. I came here with documents, as a Spanish citizen. I do not consider myself Spanish, I am Cuban”.
Through these stories, many Cubans find common ground: the sense of uprooting, the struggle, the search for stability, and above all, the real possibility of building a life that was denied to them in Cuba. “You have to work very hard, that’s true, but even so, I feel very grateful and happy to be here,” said Marylu, encapsulating a sentiment that is increasingly echoed.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cuban Emigration and Adaptation in Spain
How does adaptation in Spain affect Cuban emigrants?
Adapting in Spain for Cuban emigrants can be a challenging process, but many find opportunities and a lifestyle different from the one they had in Cuba. Some face difficulties such as loneliness and the lack of a close support network, while others emphasize the quality of life and the new experiences the country offers. The key is to maintain an open mindset and be willing to adapt to the new environment.
What are the main opportunities that Cubans find in Spain?
In Spain, Cubans find job opportunities and an environment that, although not perfect, offers them an improved quality of life compared to Cuba. Many highlight the possibility of accessing basic services, security, and stability, as well as the cultural diversity that enriches their life experience.
What challenges do Cubans face when migrating to Spain?
The challenges faced by Cubans when emigrating to Spain include cultural adaptation, language, and the quest for stable employment. Additionally, many experience estrangement and nostalgia for leaving behind their homeland and loved ones. However, with effort and determination, many manage to overcome these obstacles and build a new life in the country.
How do shared experiences on social media influence the perception of Cuban emigrants?
The experiences shared on social media have a significant impact on the perception of Cuban emigrants, as they make both the difficulties and achievements of those who have emigrated visible. These stories provide a space for mutual support and reflection on the migration process, giving others a clearer idea of what it means to start anew in a different country.
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