Renowned Cuban content creator Samantha Hernández, a prominent figure in La Familia Cubana, recently shed light on why she refrains from speaking out about Cuba's dictatorship. In an interview on the podcast Farándula 305, Un Martí To Durako questioned her silence regarding the island's political climate, to which she responded candidly.
"It's not that I don't talk about it; it's just that Cuba is an incredibly sensitive topic for me. We're here in air-conditioned comfort, living the American dream, while so many people in Cuba are suffering. I moved here a year ago, and even though things weren't as dire as they are now, they were still bad," Hernández remarked.
The influencer, who left Cuba just a year ago, revealed that she never participated in protests during her time on the island and explained why she chooses to remain silent now that she's living in Miami. "When I was in Cuba, I never took to the streets or shouted in protest because when I wanted to, my mom said, 'Sami, no, because if you get arrested, I'll die.' I valued my mom's peace of mind more than protesting. I can't stand on social media and tell others to take to the streets because I never did it myself," she added.
Hernández also shared her sorrow over her homeland's situation and the helplessness felt by those in exile: "Yes, I believe they're destroying my country, and it pains me deeply. My grandmother is in Cuba, and I won't stop sending her money, food, or phone credits. It hurts that they're exploiting the fact that people here are able to support those back home."
While she acknowledged that she can show support through social media, she clarified, "You won't see me shouting at anyone or asking anyone to do something because I didn't do it, and I won't be the one going to jail."
Hernández's statement has sparked mixed reactions among Cuban netizens. Some commend her honesty, while others call for a more active stance against the widespread repression and crisis in Cuba.
Understanding Samantha Hernández's Perspective
Why does Samantha Hernández choose not to speak about Cuba's political situation?
Samantha Hernández views Cuba as a highly sensitive topic. She feels that, living comfortably in the US, it would be hypocritical to speak out about the suffering in Cuba when she didn't protest while living there.
How does Hernández support her family in Cuba?
Hernández continues to support her family by sending money, food, and phone credits to her grandmother in Cuba, despite the challenges.
What reaction did her statements provoke among Cubans online?
Her comments led to a divided response; some praised her honesty, while others urged her to take a more proactive stance against Cuba's oppressive regime.