A Cuban woman known on TikTok as @miricubana1 has announced her decision to return to Cuba after struggling to adjust to life in the United States. She revealed her plans on the social media platform, saying she intends to take advantage of a program initiated by Donald Trump that offers $1,000 and a plane ticket to immigrants who voluntarily decide to go back to their countries of origin.
"After months of hinting in my videos that I might return to Cuba, the time has come. I'm leaving in a few days," she stated in her video. "I'll be sharing videos from the plane, from the airport, and more," she added.
The Cuban woman specifically mentioned the self-deportation program, explaining, "You might have heard about Trump's plan offering $1,000 and a plane ticket. I'm going to leave, I'm going to self-deport that way. I've already accessed the app and completed all the necessary steps."
She emphasized her difficulty in adapting, saying, "People proclaim this country as the wonder of the world, but I don't see it that way. Especially being far from family, it's like a factory of old age here—work, pay, and family barely visits. It's a tough place."
"I refuse to continue forcing myself to live unhappily, feeling depressed, missing my homeland for the 'land of wonders.' I'm leaving in a few days... It's not cowardice; I couldn't adapt, I don't feel well, things haven't gone well for me, and I want to leave. This country isn't for me," she concluded in her message.
The post sparked a wave of comments on TikTok, blending support, criticism, and reflections on the immigrant experience. "Brave decision, not everyone adapts," one user wrote. Another commented, "Where you feel happy is where you should be; our true home is Cuba." Yet, some skeptics added, "Make another video if you regret it or explain how you'll survive in Cuba." One person remarked, "Hope you won't regret it once you're there."
One of the more controversial comments was, "Good that you're going back to starve," to which she responded with a firm yet composed second video. "My response will be the most polite in the world," she began. "I'm 32, been here a year and a half. I came here at 31. I never starved, not once. I remember as a child, eating plain white rice, but I ate it happily."
She questioned, "What good are lavish meals if your heart is empty? What does it matter to have everything but not feel complete, happy, or content?" She concluded with a direct statement: "I might eat rice with an egg, but I'll be happy with my family, my kids. Rice and egg, but I won't feel alone, won't cry alone at night. I can't explain it if you lack the brains to understand. Kisses and blessings."
This follow-up video also drew numerous reactions. Many praised her for her articulate response and for prioritizing emotional and family well-being. "Perfect response," one user commented. Another added, "I'd rather have an egg with love than chicken with pain." Others chimed in with sentiments like, "Criticism is common, be happy where you choose," and "Life is unique; only you know your journey."
The Broader Context of Cuban Returns
@miricubana1's case is part of a larger trend of Cubans opting to return to the island recently. In March, Lisandra Acevedo, another Cuban residing in Miami, announced her return to Cuba with her daughter, citing lack of employment and housing. "I'm going back to Cuba with my daughter, not by choice but because I have no alternative," she said at the time.
Lisandra's journey included further videos where she reflected on her decision, which she considered reversing but ultimately followed through with. "Here I am, in Cuba, for a few days now, but just able to connect," she shared from the island in April.
Trump's self-deportation proposal, announced on May 5, has been described by officials as a "dignified exit" for undocumented immigrants. By registering with the CBP Home app and voluntarily leaving the U.S., participants receive $1,000 and a plane ticket. However, another Cuban in the U.S. publicly rejected the offer, calling it inadequate. Immigration lawyers caution that choosing this option could lead to long-term legal consequences, including potential bans of up to 20 years from re-entering the United States.
Meanwhile, stories like @miricubana1's continue to fuel discussions on social media about the emotional toll of migration, the pressure to adapt to a new country, and the right of individuals to make decisions they deem best for their lives.
Understanding the Emotional Impact of Migration
What is the self-deportation program initiated by Donald Trump?
The self-deportation program offers $1,000 and a plane ticket to immigrants who voluntarily choose to return to their countries of origin, as a way to encourage those in irregular situations to leave the U.S. on their own.
Why did @miricubana1 decide to return to Cuba?
She stated that she couldn't adapt to life in the United States, felt unhappy, and missed her family. She decided that returning to Cuba, where she felt more content, was the best choice for her well-being.
What are the potential consequences of choosing self-deportation?
Immigration lawyers warn that opting for self-deportation could result in long-term legal consequences, including bans of up to 20 years from re-entering the United States.
How have people reacted to @miricubana1's decision on social media?
Reactions have been mixed, with some expressing support and understanding, while others have criticized her decision. The conversation has highlighted the emotional challenges faced by immigrants.