If you're a Cuban living abroad, this scenario might sound all too familiar: a relative reaches out seeking financial assistance for an "urgent matter." A viral audio clip currently circulating online captures this situation perfectly—aunt in Cuba asks her nephew for $1,000 to buy a motorcycle for her son. Naturally, this tale has rapidly spread among both Cubans living on the island and those overseas.
One of the most talked-about reactions came from Yeily González, a Cuban residing in Miami. She took to TikTok to record a video response—filled with warmth but grounded in reality—aimed at the infamous "aunt from the audio." Her video, posted on her account @yeilygonzalez94, quickly gained popularity for its humorous yet honest tone.
"Listen, Auntie, I need to explain a few things," Yeily begins, as she stands next to a white car. "This 2022 Honda Civic isn't mine; I drive it and pay $500 monthly. That van over there isn't mine either; it's on payments. The house you see? Also not mine, still paying it off. You know how long it's been since I've been to a hairdresser? Since I got here," she explains.
Yeily, who makes a living selling coconuts and homemade products, shares more about the challenges of making ends meet in the United States: "Your niece is out here hustling. I don't have a thousand dollars to send you, but I can send a thousand hugs and kisses. Take care, ride a bike, Auntie," she adds with humor that delighted thousands of viewers.
The comments section of her post quickly filled up. "We should all respond like this to our aunts," one commenter suggested. Another noted, "Family in Cuba thinks we're wealthy, and if you don't give them money, they get upset." While some criticized Yeily for "airing family issues," she laughed it off, saying, "I love my aunt, but wow, she made it tough," she chuckled.
The video has become a collective venting space for many Cubans in exile, who claim to experience similar situations weekly. "Money doesn't fall from the sky, and in the U.S., you're on your own," one user commented, highlighting the harsh realities of emigrant life beyond appearances.
With a mix of irony and sincerity, Yeily's response resonates with a deeply Cuban reality: even when living abroad, the expectations from family back on the island remain. Through humor, affection, and a dash of "coconut sales," this Cuban expressed what many feel but few dare to voice.
Understanding the Cuban Diaspora's Financial Burdens
Why do Cuban relatives often ask for financial help?
Cuban relatives often seek financial help due to the economic hardships and limited opportunities on the island. Those living abroad are perceived to have more resources, leading to frequent requests for assistance.
How did Yeily's video resonate with other Cubans?
Yeily's video struck a chord with other Cubans as it humorously and honestly addressed the pressure to meet the financial expectations of relatives back home. Many found it relatable and a reflection of their own experiences.
What challenges do Cuban emigrants face in the U.S.?
Cuban emigrants in the U.S. often face challenges such as the high cost of living, the need to juggle multiple jobs, and the lack of a support network, making it difficult to send money back home as expected.