In a heartfelt TikTok video, Cuban user @madyelypieiro4 passionately defended her decision to travel back to Cuba to see her mother, despite facing criticism. Her emotional message has sparked widespread debate on social media concerning the motives behind such trips from exiles.
“Listen up, everyone: when someone goes to Cuba, it’s not for fun or tourism. It’s because they left something important behind, a family member,” she emphasized, clarifying that the trip is driven by emotional necessity rather than leisure or luxury.
Addressing suggestions that she should take her mother to a more comfortable destination like Punta Cana, she retorted, “The question often asked is why not take your family to Punta Cana instead of going to Cuba... Not everyone can afford Punta Cana. Stop asking absurd questions, people.”
She was unequivocal: “I head to Cuba with suitcase in hand and ticket in tow, bringing whatever small gifts I can buy for my family. I’m not there as a tourist, I don’t rent cars or stay in hotels, because it’s not within my means.”
The video captures her frustration with accusations that returning to the island supports communism. “I don’t care, people. As long as my mother is there, I will go. Thank God I have a mother who deserves the world and more. I might not be able to give it to her now, but one day I will,” she declared, visibly moved.
Recalling her mother’s sacrifices, she shared, “I had the kind of mother who, if there were only two steaks, one was for me and my little brother, and she ate rice alone. If there was only one steak, she’d split it in half, half for me and my brother, and she wouldn’t eat.”
“So, the least I can do is go to Cuba to bring a smile to her face, to let her spend time with her grandson, to make her happy amidst the misery,” she added, reiterating that her visits are personal, not political.
Supporting Voices Amidst Criticism
Responding to those who argue that trips to the island are risky, the young woman clarified: “Don’t be scared. Up until now, you can still go. No one looks at you at the airport here or there. There’s no issue if your papers are in order and you have no criminal record.”
The video of @madyelypieiro4 has resonated on TikTok, garnering numerous supportive comments. Many users shared similar experiences, highlighting the importance of reuniting with family despite challenging conditions.
“I also go for my mother and will continue to do so as long as I can. I don’t support communism; I support my mother,” one user commented. Another added, “My mother is losing her sight and prays to God to keep what little vision she has left so she can see me again.”
Messages like “Family is the most important thing and supersedes any fear. No law can forbid seeing a loved one” and “I agree with you 100%. There are two of us who think alike” were echoed in various forms, reflecting the sentiment of many exiles.
Some appreciated the candidness: “You spoke for many” and “Your video made me cry, it’s very sad what we Cubans go through.” Another user shared, “I feel the same. I left my heart there, my parents, my only sister, my grandparents.”
Economic Arguments and Personal Choices
Others defended the decision with economic reasoning: “I’m not going to spend like that on Punta Cana. In Cuba, you don’t spend what Punta Cana costs… I spend on food and leave whatever is left for my mother” and “Going to Cuba with a ticket, a bag, and a little money is enough, but it’s very comforting to be with your loved ones.”
A follower was straightforward: “I went this month and had a fantastic time in Cuba, 15 days in Cayo Guillermo,” while another added, “I haven’t seen my family in 3 years and have lost hope of going. I don’t even have a job.”
The tone of gratitude was prevalent. Comments like “God bless you, you’ve said what many of us don’t voice,” “Exactly, as long as those I love are there, I’ll keep going,” and “Go as often as you can. May God help and bless you always” reflected the widespread support.
However, not all comments were uncritical. “No one can tell you what to do or not do, but every action has consequences,” one noted. Another was more direct: “The question is: who are you explaining this to? Everyone does what they want with their life.”
From a realistic perspective, one person pointed out: “Surely what they don’t speak frankly about is that those of us who can’t take the family on vacation are grateful to God for being able to go to Cuba to share with our loved ones, despite the blackouts and everything else.”
One comment summarized the collective sentiment: “My mother is my everything. I go to see her. That mother of mine is unconditional.”
Ongoing Debate Over Cuban Exile Visits
This video isn’t the first on the topic shared by @madyelypieiro4. In July, she moved thousands by documenting her return to the island after a four-year absence. The footage of her emotional reunion with her brother and niece sparked an outpouring of empathy among exiled Cubans.
Another case that stirred controversy was that of @melcolumbie, who countered criticism with the viral phrase: “I’m not interested in politics, my family is.”
Nonetheless, not everyone concurs. Figures like boxer Yordenis Ugás have publicly challenged the notion that trips to Cuba are solely for family reasons. “I went nine years without seeing my mom... But I became a resident through a political law... Respect that, damn it,” Ugás expressed in a recent video.
In a similar vein, Cuban resident Oriannis from Jacksonville stated on TikTok: “You don’t go to Cuba to see your family. You go to be treated like a god.”
Despite the divisions, the reality is that videos addressing this issue continue to gain traction, reigniting the debate within the Cuban community about what returning to the island truly means.
Common Questions About Visiting Cuba from Exile
Why do some Cuban exiles choose to visit Cuba?
Many Cuban exiles choose to visit Cuba to see family members they left behind, driven by emotional necessity rather than leisure or tourism.
Are there concerns about traveling to Cuba from the U.S.?
Some concerns include accusations of supporting communism and potential risks involved. However, many travelers assert that as long as paperwork is in order, there are no issues with travel.
What are common reasons against traveling to Cuba?
Critics argue that visiting Cuba may inadvertently support the regime. Others believe there are better alternatives for family reunions outside Cuba.
How do people justify the costs of visiting Cuba?
Many justify the costs by emphasizing the emotional value of family reunions, stating that the expenses are worthwhile for the comfort and happiness of their loved ones.