Renowned Cuban boxer Yordenis Ugás recently stirred up social media with a fiery critique aimed at fellow Cubans in the United States who claim they are uninterested in politics. His comments were prompted by a viral video of a young woman defending her decision to continue visiting Cuba because of her family ties there. Ugás expressed his disbelief, writing, “With everything our Cuban brothers are enduring, it's shocking to witness such apathetic attitudes. Other immigrants also have families, yet you don't see them publicly expressing such views.”
Ugás took a moment to remind his followers of the historical sacrifices that paved the way for Cuban immigration benefits: “This law cost thousands of lives, countless political prisoners, and millions in exile. Yet today's Cubans seem indifferent to those sacrifices. Show some respect.” He shared a personal anecdote, saying, “I spent nine years without seeing my mother. You don't love your mom more than I love mine. But I became a resident because of a political law... a law achieved by honorable Cubans. Stop talking nonsense and show some respect. We earned that law with blood and pain.”
Ugás Addresses Misinterpretations
In a follow-up video, Ugás clarified that his comments were not directed at the young woman specifically: “This video isn't against her—there are millions who think this way.” He warned of the consequences of such attitudes: “Because of people who speak like this, we now have nearly a million Cubans without legal status.” He pointed to the termination of the “Wet Foot, Dry Foot” policy under Barack Obama's administration as a direct result of such indifference: “Obama eliminated the policy because of people with these views. We lost what we had because of that mindset.”
Concerns Over the Cuban Adjustment Act
Ugás expressed his concerns about the potential end of the Cuban Adjustment Act, the last remaining immigration benefit for Cubans: “The only thing left is the Adjustment Act and it's nearly gone... it's a shame to witness this.” His comments sparked a heated debate online. Many supported his stance, emphasizing the political roots of Cuban immigration benefits: “I completely agree with you, Yordenis Ugás. Thank you, brother,” a user commented. Another added, “I'm proud to be Cuban because of people like you.” Others praised his candidness: “You're right, the Cuban has forgotten why we're here.”
Mixed Reactions and Backlash
However, Ugás's remarks also faced backlash for their perceived harshness and prioritization over family ties. “It's easy to talk when you're wealthy. Family comes first,” one critic responded, while another sarcastically challenged him: “Let's send your mom to Cuba and see if you can stay strong without seeing her.” Some defended the young woman in the video: “Should we forget our parents? I'd never stop seeing mine,” and another highlighted, “Politics may divide us, but family is sacred.”
This isn't the first time Ugás has voiced strong opinions on Cuban issues. In May, he criticized those attending the May Day marches in Havana, calling them “millions of accomplices” to the regime. He also condemned Miguel Díaz-Canel after the death of a political prisoner's mother, labeling it an “unforgivable cruelty.” Additionally, Ugás has spoken out about the deportation of a Cuban mother separated from her breastfeeding child in the U.S., a case he described as “deeply saddening” in his criticism of ICE. He also showed support for Lester Domínguez, a young man attacked in Holguín, celebrating his recovery after closely following the case.
Understanding the Impact of Yordenis Ugás's Statements
Why did Yordenis Ugás criticize some Cuban-Americans?
Yordenis Ugás criticized Cuban-Americans who express disinterest in politics because he believes their apathy contributes to the loss of important immigration benefits and undermines the sacrifices of past generations.
What historical sacrifices did Ugás mention regarding Cuban immigration benefits?
Ugás highlighted the sacrifices of thousands who were executed, imprisoned, or forced into exile, which ultimately led to the creation of laws benefiting Cuban immigrants.
What policy did Ugás blame for the plight of undocumented Cubans in the U.S.?
Ugás pointed to the elimination of the “Wet Foot, Dry Foot” policy during the Obama administration, which he believes was influenced by the indifferent attitudes of some Cuban-Americans.
How have Ugás's statements affected the Cuban community?
His statements have sparked intense debate, with many supporting his views on the importance of recognizing political struggles, while others criticized the perceived harshness towards prioritizing family ties.