The Cuban content creator Ricardo Barrera Pauli, known as @elrickytampa, shared an emotional video in which he appears visibly affected after learning that the authorities suspended his commercial driver’s license (CDL) in the state of Florida.
"What do I have to do to feel like a human being? My life depends on laws set by powerful men. I was born in a country ruled by powerful men who do whatever they want, and I come to the U.S. in search of a new life, but they also clip my wings. What kind of world are we living in?" he expressed emotionally in a video shared on his social media.
Ricardo has been working tirelessly in the United States for four years to support his family in an honorable way, and suddenly his world crumbles as he finds himself unemployed. The shock was hard for the Cuban immigrant, and his message has gone viral, garnering nearly 400,000 views.
He reported that he was at the tax collection office—where truck drivers typically renew their commercial licenses—when he was informed that his document had been suspended. Without that license, he cannot continue working. His salary is not only the support for his family but also the income with which he pays for his house.
The video has generated dozens of supportive and concerned comments from followers and other Cuban truck drivers. "We can feel your pain. These situations are delicate; I hope you receive emotional support," wrote one user.
Another person commented that the suspension might be related to President Donald Trump's recent policies regarding the required level of English for commercial drivers, although this information has not been confirmed by the Cuban; it reportedly is the reason for the cancellation of his license.
Ricardo thanked everyone for their messages of solidarity and assured that he is fighting to resolve the situation. “What they are doing to us is not fair,” he said, clearly hurt, as many users sent him messages of encouragement and hope.
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