Two young Cubans, originally from Santiago de Cuba, have shared their work experiences in a video that captures their resilience and determination as they face the challenges of emigration to Mexico.
The footage, circulated on social media, shows them laboring on a construction site more than six stories high.
With minimal protective gear, one of the workers, Alfredo Sierra Fernández, describes the grueling routine endured by those striving for a better future beyond Cuba's borders.
"You don't know what you've got until you leave the country, just so you know. Look at what we have to face," he remarks, pointing to the height from which he works.
"If you don't do it, imagine hanging six stories up and then buying clothes, it's no big deal," he added.
Both men, natives of Santiago de Cuba, are engaged in construction work in Mexico, a sector that provides employment opportunities for many migrants, albeit under physically demanding and perilous conditions.
The short clip, accompanied by the message “From Santiago de Cuba, two Cubans face new challenges in Mexico. At six stories high, hard work and determination unite us,” has sparked reactions on social media. Users highlight the courage and resilience of those who emigrate to support their families.
For thousands of Cubans abroad, stories like this reflect the everyday realities of emigration: long hours, tough jobs, and the longing for what was left behind.
Yet, they also demonstrate the resolve that every day of toil is a step closer to a dignified life.
Above all, they showcase the desire to do whatever it takes to escape the Cuban dictatorship.
Challenges and Realities for Cuban Migrants
What challenges do Cuban migrants face in Mexico?
Cuban migrants in Mexico often encounter physically demanding jobs, such as construction, which involve high risks and minimal protective measures. They face long working hours and the emotional strain of being away from home.
Why do Cubans choose to emigrate despite the challenges?
Many Cubans emigrate in pursuit of better economic opportunities and to escape the constraints imposed by the Cuban regime. The hope of achieving a dignified life for themselves and their families drives them to endure the hardships of emigration.