Cuban state media has launched a severe critique against Lina Luaces, the young woman set to represent the island in the 2025 Miss Universe pageant, as well as the entire selection process. An article in Cubadebate dismisses not only the contestant but also the legitimacy of the event, labeling it a "superficial show" driven by foreign influences, disconnected from the "national reality."
The state-run piece casts doubt on her Cuban heritage, pointing out that "Lina was not born on the largest of the Antilles," that she has "never set foot in" Santiago de Cuba, the province she represented, and that she "does not even speak Spanish fluently."
While the article claims its intention is not to "question the 'Cuban identity' of those living abroad," the overall tone clearly aims to delegitimize the representation of Cuba by individuals raised outside the country. The criticism extends beyond Luaces herself, questioning the very essence of the pageant: "Can someone unfamiliar with the daily reality of a country truly represent it to the world?"
The regime's media also targets the Miss Universe Cuba selection process, conducted in Miami by Venezuelan entrepreneurs, describing their connection to Cuban culture as "at best, tenuous." The article argues that "commercial interests overshadow genuine understanding of the national reality" in this event.
According to Cubadebate, Luaces' selection is part of a broader strategy to "present a sanitized version of Cuban identity, detached from the political and social complexities" of the island. This statement contrasts sharply with Cuba's longstanding lack of international representation, a policy enforced by the regime for over six decades.
The article recalls that Cuba has not officially participated in beauty pageants since 1960, justifying this absence by criticizing the beauty industry as one that "profits from spectacle, entertainment, and superficial beauty, turning women into objects in consumerist propaganda vehicles." Notably, such criticisms arise only when narratives slip beyond state control.
Rather than viewing the rise of these private initiatives as an expression of the Cuban diaspora's diversity and plurality, the regime responds with ideological attacks. It appears that Luaces' selection is further complicated by her being the daughter of Lili Estefan and niece of Emilio and Gloria Estefan, prominent figures in the Cuban exile community who openly oppose the dictatorship.
Understanding the Controversy Around Miss Universe Cuba
Why is the Cuban state media critical of Miss Universe Cuba?
The Cuban state media is critical because they view the pageant as a "superficial show" that is out of touch with the nation's reality and driven by external influences.
What are the criticisms about Lina Luaces' Cuban representation?
Critics question her Cuban heritage, noting that she was not born in Cuba, has never visited Santiago de Cuba, and does not speak Spanish fluently, thus challenging her ability to represent the country.
How does the regime view the Miss Universe Cuba selection process?
The regime views the selection process, conducted in Miami by Venezuelan entrepreneurs, as primarily commercial and lacking genuine connection to Cuban culture.