A TikTok video capturing a Cuban woman's reunion with her family in Cuba has garnered over 700,000 views, not because of the heartwarming family moment, but due to the controversy surrounding her choice to arrive in a rented car while her mother waited outside a wooden house. The young woman, Milena, faced a flood of criticism, with many questioning why she didn't use the money spent on the rental to help her family improve their living conditions.
Milena took to the same platform to address the negative feedback. Some commenters accused her of flaunting luxury in the United States while her family remained in modest conditions in Cuba. "People speak without knowing the full story," she told her followers, explaining that renting a car in Cuba is the most practical option for her to get around and assist her family. She also highlighted the challenges in Cuba regarding gasoline availability and the high costs of hiring private transportation.
She further clarified that wearing a necklace in the U.S. or having a car does not equate to living in luxury; a car is a necessity. Responding to criticism about the wooden house shown in the video, Milena explained that her mother actually resides in a concrete house nearby, but the family has chosen to preserve the wooden structure for sentimental reasons. It was the home her grandfather built long ago, and where she lived until her twenties.
Some even accused her of being cold for not crying upon embracing her mother. Milena responded, "I visited Cuba less than a year ago, so why should I be expected to break down in tears? Everyone expresses emotions differently."
Despite the wave of criticism, Milena shared various videos depicting her enjoyment of the trip, particularly cherishing the time spent with her mother and family. The footage includes moments of them sharing coffee, cooking together, and relaxing on Varadero Beach.
Interestingly, the backlash contributed to Milena going viral on TikTok, resulting in an increase in her followers on the platform.
Understanding the Social Media Backlash
Why did Milena receive criticism for renting a car in Cuba?
Milena faced criticism because people believed she should have used the money spent on renting a car to help improve her family's living conditions in Cuba.
How did Milena justify her decision to rent a car?
Milena explained that renting a car was the most practical solution for traveling around Cuba and assisting her family, citing the challenges with gasoline availability and high costs of private transportation.
What sentimental value does the wooden house hold for Milena's family?
The wooden house has sentimental value as it was built by Milena's grandfather, and both she and her family have memories associated with it, which is why they have chosen to preserve it.