Is It Social Media Content or Reality? Cuban Woman in the U.S. Reflects on Emotional Strain of Providing Support from Abroad

A TikTok video posted by Cuban user @layami.87, who resides in the United States, has reignited the conversation about the emotional and financial ties between Cuban emigrants and their families back home. Although she does not share a specific personal experience, the young woman offers a reflection that resonates with many others who have voiced similar feelings online: the notion of constantly giving without receiving gratitude in return. "Families in Cuba have become shameless and ungrateful. I don't want to generalize, but I know many will relate to what I'm about to say," she warns at the beginning of her video.

The video takes inspiration from another viral piece by influencer Azúcar de Cuba, who showcased a $120 food purchase in Cuba. From there, the TikToker contrasts this with her reality in the U.S., where she spent $150 on essential goods for just one week. "You send $150 to your family, and three days later, they say they have nothing to eat, that $150 is not enough," she says, visibly frustrated. "The level of shamelessness has reached astronomical heights," she states, expressing that her first reaction upon seeing Azúcar's video was "anger, followed by disappointment."

Emotional and Economic Reflections

Her reflection goes beyond economics, delving into emotional territory as well. "Family has forgotten about those of us on this side. We are human beings too, with families, children, bills to pay, working all day long," she concludes. "With Cuba, you can never do enough. Unfortunately, family has lost even their humanity."

Polarized Reactions: Abuse, Need, or Disconnection?

The video has sparked thousands of interactions. Among those who felt identified, there were messages of direct support: "The same happens to me, it's never enough," one user commented. "They don't even appreciate what we send anymore," wrote another. One of the most discussed comments was from a man suggesting cutting all support for three months to see what happens: "No remittance, no food, no clothing, except medicine for a sick relative," he asserted.

A woman stated, "I got rid of that burden, I don't support anyone. Let them struggle like we do here." Another popular comment read: "You send them $100, and they say that's nothing to you, as if they know what we earn or how much it costs to survive here."

But there were also responses encouraging a more nuanced view. One user replied: "It's not that they're ungrateful, it's just not enough. Go to Cuba and see if $150 lasts you a month." Another added: "There are families wanting luxuries, and there are those truly in need and struggling." Some emigrated mothers defended their ongoing support of their loved ones, regardless of the response: "My mom gave up bread for me, she can ask me for anything."

A Recurrent Conversation

This type of reflection is not new on social media. Other Cuban women in the United States or Europe have shared similar videos, where they speak out about feeling emotionally exploited by their families on the island. "I've become Cuba's slave," said a resident in Miami. Another, through tears, explained that she works 14-hour days and is still judged for not sending money every month: "I'm not an ATM."

Even within the island, critical voices have arisen. Azúcar de Cuba herself, who inspired @layami.87's video, has mentioned in other content: "Cubans living in Cuba still think everyone in the U.S. is wealthy, that you kick a bush and $100 bills come flying out." From Spain, an emigrant sarcastically noted: "If they know you're visiting Cuba, they ask for everything, even mosquito repellent."

An Ongoing Dilemma

Is this a crisis of values, a consequence of scarcity, or merely a natural disconnect between those living in vastly different realities? The viral nature of such content suggests it's not an isolated issue but rather an ongoing conversation that needs addressing.

The testimony of @layami.87, while not a specific personal account, channels a collective frustration. "I don't know if you'll find yourself in this situation or think the same way, but with Cuba, you can never do enough," she concludes. Her message, more than a complaint, is a cry of exhaustion shared by many, even if not everyone agrees with her perspective.