A young Cuban woman living in the United States recently shared the gripping account of her migration journey on TikTok. Having arrived two years and four months ago, she embarked on a perilous path alone, with only a backpack, leaving her with both physical and emotional scars. "I faced hunger, cold, and a constant fear of death," she recalled.
Throughout her journey, she was continuously at risk, traveling in dilapidated vehicles and being led by armed individuals. "Every step of the way, from the transportation to the guides, my life was in danger," recounted the user @lachina_cubanita_1. She narrowly avoided a serious traffic accident that injured five of her fellow travelers. "Thank God I decided to get out of that car at the last minute," she shared.
The crossing at the Honduras-Guatemala border was described as her worst nightmare. "We were driven in trucks over muddy ravines; we were packed tightly, barely fitting, and the risk of falling was constant," she narrated. She also reported being extorted: "They took all the money I had for the journey, and if I didn't comply, they threatened to turn me over to immigration authorities."
In Guatemala, she endured extreme suffering: "We were left under the blazing sun for over 30 minutes in a truck filled with children and the elderly fainting, unable to call for help because the police were nearby." Having been physically assaulted several times, she admitted that the trauma of that journey still lingers in her daily life.
Her story resonated with numerous other migrants who related to her experiences. "The Honduras-Guatemala border is my lifelong trauma," one user commented. Another wrote, "I went through the same ordeal, but with a one-year-old child. Then I was stuck in Mexico for 10 months until we finally found peace here."
Many comments expressed solidarity and admiration. "I arrived nine years ago after crossing eleven countries; if I start recounting, I can't help but cry," shared another Cuban. "The important thing is that we're here and have this one chance to do it right," added another user.
Despite the pain endured, the young woman concluded with a hopeful message: "We've gone through too much to waste time. Since I arrived, I've set a goal: to make every day count." Her story serves as a testament to the sacrifice, resilience, and indomitable spirit of many Cuban migrants.
Insights into the Cuban Migration Experience
What were some of the dangers faced during the journey?
The journey involved traveling in unsafe vehicles, being led by armed individuals, facing potential accidents, and being extorted for money under the threat of deportation.
How did the community respond to her story?
Her story received widespread empathy and support from other migrants who had similar experiences, with many expressing solidarity and admiration for her bravery.
What message did the young Cuban woman share at the end of her story?
She shared a message of hope and determination, emphasizing the importance of making every day count despite the hardships faced during her journey.