A Cuban couple living in the United States has stirred up a storm on TikTok with a video revealing the harsh treatment they received from family members shortly after their arrival. The post, shared on the account @fanylachyysubanda, has sparked a flood of reactions from fellow Cubans who claim to have faced similar experiences.
In the video, the woman questions why many long-time U.S. immigrants impose harsh conditions or mistreat newly arrived relatives. "I shouldn't have to endure the same struggles you did when you arrived," she asserted, noting that while some come "looking for an easy life," others are eager to work hard and improve their circumstances. The creator, identified as Fany, posed the question: “I wonder if anyone else has gone through this,” inviting a wave of shared stories.
The man in the video urged a halt to what he described as a “tradition” of mistreatment toward new migrants. "When a family member arrives from Cuba, don't let them suffer; help them if they're not taking advantage," he stated. The couple recounted spending just a month at their relatives' home, during which time they cooked, cleaned, did yard work, and job hunted from their first week. "Even our daughters were mistreated, yet we behaved perfectly," they remarked. They also mentioned bringing their own shampoo and paying for their phones from Cuba to avoid relying on others.
The video quickly drew responses. Many users shared similar anecdotes: from those kicked out for not following strict rules to others who were mistreated despite helping out. “We were told to stay until our papers were ready, but they treated us as if we were freeloaders,” Fany and Lachy lamented in response to a comment. A user noted, “The most painful thing is arriving with respect and gratitude, only to be treated like a burden.”
However, some defended the hosts, arguing that "in someone else's house, you follow the rules," and pointing out that many newcomers don't contribute, instead exploiting resources and wanting to live without giving back. This counterpoint highlighted the complex nature of migrant conflicts. The couple responded, “We followed the rules, helped out, and never complained. We left through the front door, not sneaking out.”
Beyond the immediate debate, the discussion revealed a rift within the Cuban community abroad: a generational clash of migration stories of sacrifice against new realities and expectations. Fear of exploitation, lack of empathy, and economic tension contribute to dynamics that fracture family bonds. “It's not about receiving handouts; it’s about not being humiliated when doing the right thing,” Fany added in one of the most engaged comments.
Fany and Lachy concluded their message with a plea for respect and humane treatment, reminding viewers that not every migration experience is the same. “I will always be grateful, but I want them far away because what we went through was too much,” Fany wrote, emphasizing that their family tried to appear generous but ended up being cruel. “We never spoke against them; we just left and paved our way alone.” Their video has become a collective space for venting, where hundreds have shared their truths in a conversation that continues to grow.
Understanding Cuban Migrant Experiences in the U.S.
What challenges do Cuban immigrants face with their families in the U.S.?
Cuban immigrants often face challenges such as harsh treatment, strict conditions, and lack of support from relatives who have been in the U.S. longer. This can lead to feelings of humiliation and tension within family dynamics.
How do long-time Cuban immigrants view new arrivals?
Some long-time Cuban immigrants may view new arrivals as burdensome, expecting them to adhere to strict rules and contribute without receiving much support. This perspective can create a divisive environment.
What is the impact of these family dynamics on the Cuban immigrant community?
These family dynamics can lead to a fracture within the Cuban immigrant community, creating a generational divide and perpetuating a cycle of mistrust and emotional strain.