Amidst the global stir following Nicolás Maduro's arrest and Donald Trump's statements regarding Cuba, a Cuban woman's reaction became one of TikTok's most talked-about moments. Her daughter playfully informed her that “Trump was heading to Cuba,” sparking a viral response from the mother.
“Look, don't mess with me, and just get my paperwork sorted,” the mother is heard saying with a tone that’s both serious and desperate. “Whether Trump comes or not, if there’s no bombarding, I’m done for. Call the lawyer on Monday, ask about the appointment, because I'm desperate to leave here. Don’t try to be funny,” she concluded, making it clear that her priority is not politics, but leaving the country as soon as possible.
The video was shared by Cuban user La Chiki (@lachikidecuba on TikTok), amassing thousands of views within hours and garnering comments that turned “the appointment” into the catchphrase of the day. “She definitely knows what she wants,” one user wrote, while another joked, “Get her out of there as quickly as you can.”
Although the video was shared humorously, many viewers saw the mother's words as a reflection of the exhaustion felt across Cuba. “This isn't just a joke; it’s the reality for thousands dreaming of leaving,” an online user commented. Others simply related to the scenario: “My mom’s the same, counting down the days to leave.”
On social media, the clip became a form of collective catharsis. With laughs and phrases turned into memes, the scene underscored that beyond politics or promises, many Cubans share the same desire as the mother in the video: “to take flight, and the sooner, the better.”
Understanding the Viral Cuban TikTok Phenomenon
Why did the video of the Cuban mother go viral?
The video captured the candid and humorous reaction of a Cuban mother to her daughter's joke about Trump visiting Cuba, resonating with many due to the underlying desire for emigration and the relatable frustration with the country's situation.
What does "turnito" refer to in the video?
"Turnito" refers to the appointment or opportunity the mother is desperately waiting for to leave Cuba, highlighting her eagerness to emigrate.
How did the audience react to the video?
The audience reacted with humor and empathy, as many could relate to the mother's sentiments and found the situation both amusing and reflective of the broader Cuban experience.