A Cuban woman living in the United States has gained internet fame after posting a video from her workplace, where she proudly states that she earns her living as a housekeeper in a nursing home. Her name is Heidy Díaz, known on TikTok as @heidydiazsosa, and her message has resonated with hundreds of users on the platform. "I’m not ashamed to say I work as a housekeeper in a nursing home. That's my job, and I'm very happy. I ask God for many blessings for having this job here in the United States," Díaz declares in a video, wearing her work uniform.
Although she was scheduled to have a day off, Heidy was called in to cover a shift and didn't hesitate to accept. "I came here to better myself, to move forward. If I don't succeed, my family won't either," she explains. She sums it up candidly: "This is what I do, folks: housekeeping. It’s important to work."
Dispelling Myths about Life in America
Heidy also challenges the often distorted view of American life held by some in Cuba: "People in Cuba sometimes think we're all managing hotels or in high positions here, but that's not the case... you have to do whatever comes your way. And I genuinely love my job."
The video sparked immediate reactions. Many people, predominantly Cuban women, shared their experiences in the cleaning sector, whether in hospitals, private homes, or health facilities. Many noted that while they had professions like technicians, teachers, or nurses in Cuba, they found stability and sustenance in the U.S. through such work. Comments like "I'm a housekeeper too, and I'm proud," "What matters is working honestly," or "I used to be a boss in Cuba, now I clean, but I support my family," were common among the supportive responses.
Hard Work and Resilience
Heidy has also shared that even on her days off, she takes on extra cleaning jobs. In a previous post, she said, "Look, my loves, on my day off, I'm cleaning a house. It shows that in this country, you come to work and prosper, but if you don't work, you’re nothing and you do nothing with your life." This message also received significant support.
Stories from other Cuban women, like "La Cubanita Soñadora," also surfaced, responding confidently to those who mocked her for cleaning houses: "Shame? I'd be ashamed to have two hands, two feet, and sell my body to make a living." Her straightforward message was celebrated with hundreds of supportive comments.
Another inspiring example is Leidy Aragón from Tampa, a Cuban woman who started cleaning houses for $20 and now owns her own business. With less than $100, a second-hand vacuum cleaner, and a strong desire to succeed, she has become a single, independent mother and a role model for other immigrant women.
Heidy's story, like many others, highlights a seldom-told reality: the earnest and tough work that supports thousands of Cuban families outside the island. Without embellishments, with humility and a lot of courage, Heidy makes it clear: "Those who don't work choose not to, but here, there's work, one way or another, folks."
Understanding the Cuban Experience in the U.S.
Why did Heidy Díaz choose to work as a housekeeper in the U.S.?
Heidy Díaz chose to work as a housekeeper in the U.S. to improve her life and support her family. She values the opportunity to work honestly and sees it as a means to achieve personal and family success.
How does Heidy Díaz view the perception of American life in Cuba?
Heidy Díaz challenges the misconception held by some in Cuba that people in the U.S. all have high-status jobs. She emphasizes that many, including herself, do whatever work is available and that she genuinely loves her job.
What message does Heidy share about work and prosperity?
Heidy's message is clear: prosperity in the U.S. comes through hard work. She believes that if you don't work, you can't achieve anything, highlighting the importance of diligence and perseverance.