The young Cuban Anna Sofía Benítez Silvente responded to the criticism that arose after her viral video, in which she questioned the economic situation and the limitations on freedom of expression on the island.
In a new message, he expressed gratitude for the support received, defended his right to voice his opinions, and rejected the notion that having basic comforts should be used to discredit his claims.
"I already have my degree... thank you all for the support," said the 20-year-old at the beginning, before launching into a speech about what she described as the normalization of mediocrity and misery.
Benítez Silvente made light of users' accusations who, based on images of her home, claimed that she was exaggerating the poverty.
"My one-dollar guitar, my one-dollar sofa, my one-dollar television... and my one-dollar fridge, which is currently filled with six pounds of continuity and four kilos of resilience,” he said.
With that metaphor, he maintained that having a television or a refrigerator “does not negate my right to express what I think or to aspire for more.” “Would my words hold more truth if I were under a bridge wearing tattered clothes?” he questioned.
The young woman emphasized that none of those comforts have been provided by the revolution and that, although she receives support from an emigrated sister, the “daily” expenses are managed by her and her mother.
Criticized what he sees as a social expectation regarding remittances: “Cubans have become accustomed to the idea that when a family member emigrates, that family member has to support the family back home. They shouldn't always have to.”
His bet, he emphasized, is on a country where education and hard work allow one to live with dignity, without relying on external assistance.
He also questioned the impact of the crisis on the continuity of studies and the professional motivation of young people: “Selling croquettes earns more than a surgeon, an engineer, a scientist,” he said, clarifying that he does not underestimate popular trades, but that the imbalance pushes many to abandon their careers.
In his opinion, love for the homeland should arise from "results, experiences, and history," not from "fear and indoctrination."
Benítez Silvente also reported labor and political pressures regarding public expression: “Here, you can't say what you think… Many tell me, ‘I agree, but I can't like or share because I work in a place where it could have consequences for me.’”
He criticized that "volunteer work" is being turned into a requirement—with threats to lower salaries or withdraw modules—and that state meetings are held with "leaked topics and manipulated figures." "Just like my refrigerator... it looks nice, but it's empty inside," he compared.
In her closing, the young woman once again invoked freedom of thought and expression (Article 54) and urged to keep the debate focused on ideas, not on personal attacks.
"The reality is one, the truth is one. You cannot cover the sun with a finger," he stated before once again expressing gratitude for the solidarity received.
Ana Sofía Benítez Silvente had spoken out on social media requesting her university to rectify an error in her degree. Following that, she received threats, was summoned to her Faculty, and according to her account, she was later informed that her academic diploma "is already ready."
Licensed as a Higher Technician in Dental Prosthetics, she explains that she has been unable to practice due to an error in her name on the diploma, despite having graduated in February 2025.
For this reason, and with a mother facing health issues, he took on various jobs to contribute to the household economy.
After the publication, threats directed at the young woman circulated. Internet users sent her messages assuring her that she would be arrested for her statements, while others questioned her for exposing those deficiencies.
Beyond the detractors, her testimony moved thousands and triggered immediate responses, while also reigniting the debate about expression, basic services, and institutional responsibility in Cuba.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Right to Freedom of Expression and the Situation in Cuba
Why does Anna Sofía Benítez Silvente defend her right to express her opinion in Cuba?
Anna Sofía Benítez Silvente defends her right to express her opinions, citing Article 54 of the Cuban Constitution, which guarantees freedom of thought, conscience, and expression. She asserts that the revolution has not provided her with comforts and that her opinions are valid despite the criticism she has faced regarding her economic situation.
How has the economic situation affected young professionals in Cuba?
The economic situation in Cuba has created an imbalance where popular trades can offer more income than professional careers, discouraging many young people from continuing their studies. This has led to professions such as surgeon or engineer being less lucrative than selling croquettes, which dissuades young people from pursuing academic careers.
What criticisms does Anna Sofía Benítez Silvente make about remittances and economic dependence in Cuba?
Anna Sofía Benítez Silvente criticizes the social expectation that has been created around remittances, where it is anticipated that emigrated family members will financially support those who remain on the island. She advocates for a country where personal work and education enable individuals to live with dignity without relying on external assistance.
What has been the public response to the statements made by Anna Sofía Benítez Silvente?
After her statements, Anna Sofía Benítez Silvente has received both threats and support from the public. Her testimony has moved thousands and reignited the debate on freedom of expression and living conditions in Cuba.
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