Dominican YouTuber Dany Pérez, recognized on social media as Destino Tolk or Destino Positivo, has stirred the internet with a candid message aimed at Latinos who, after emigrating, abandon their heritage and criticize their homelands while idolizing the United States or other foreign countries. "People need to stop being sycophants," the artist asserts, referring to those who collaborate with immigration authorities or feel superior after obtaining foreign citizenship.
Destino revealed that even though he spent numerous years in Europe and acquired a French passport for convenience, he has never stopped being Dominican nor ceased to love his homeland. "I became a French national for convenience... but if there's one thing I am sure of, it's that I am Dominican, with all its flaws and virtues," he stated.
Addressing the United States, he remarked, "Tomorrow, I could have this country's passport, but I will always remain Dominican, with its defects and virtues." He continued, "When I find myself in a country like the U.S. and see a Cuban, a Venezuelan, or a Nicaraguan, I relate to them because we're all Latinos. We left our land, our families, our neighborhoods, to seek better opportunities here. So when some arrive and act more American than the Americans themselves, harming their own people, turning them in, mocking them... it's dirty and disgusting," he declared.
Concerns From the Cuban Exile Community
In a related concern, Aly Sánchez paused her show in Miami last weekend to share a moving encounter. A recently arrived Cuban woman came to thank her for bringing laughter amid fear and uncertainty. This interaction led the actress to question the direction of the Cuban exile community: "How did we stop caring for our brothers and sisters who arrive?" she asked.
The actress, presenter, and comedian criticized those who rejoice in the deportation of hardworking mothers and others who use the ICE number to inform on immigrants. Aly also expressed disappointment with Cuban-American politicians who have failed to support their community. "A politician who doesn't represent our interests doesn't deserve re-election," she declared.
Controversy Over Digital Vigilantism
Her comments coincide with the controversy surrounding Cuban-American Enrique Tarrio, a supporter of President Donald Trump. Tarrio has sparked debate by launching an app that turns immigrant tracking into a digital enterprise. The former leader of the Proud Boys introduced ICERAID last week, a platform that rewards users with cryptocurrency for reporting undocumented individuals in the U.S.
The app, which employs artificial intelligence to scrutinize photos and data of suspected irregular immigrants, offers payments in $RAID for uploading images and locations, creating a public map of reports. Human rights organizations have raised alarms about the tool, warning that it promotes citizen surveillance and could lead to personal vendettas disguised as patriotism.
Understanding the Impact of Digital Monitoring on Immigrants
Why is the ICERAID app controversial?
The ICERAID app is controversial because it encourages citizens to report undocumented immigrants, offering cryptocurrency rewards for doing so. This could lead to increased surveillance and personal vendettas, potentially putting individuals at risk.
What are some criticisms against the Cuban-American community mentioned in the article?
The article highlights criticisms of certain Cuban-Americans who celebrate deportations and report fellow immigrants to authorities. It also criticizes politicians within the community who fail to advocate for immigrant interests.
How does Destino identify with other Latinos in the U.S.?
Destino identifies with other Latinos in the U.S. because, like them, he has left his homeland in search of better opportunities. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining cultural ties and supporting one another rather than assimilating at the expense of one's roots.