A video posted by content creator Velcheva Julia, a Russian influencer based in Spain, has ignited a significant controversy on social media for portraying an "idealized" version of Cuba. In her video, filmed in Havana and shared on TikTok and Instagram, Velcheva described the island as a "vibrant, warm, noisy, and lively" place, accompanied by visuals of classic cars, colonial facades, and local music.
While the video garnered millions of views, many viewers accused her of romanticizing poverty and presenting a shallow perspective of a nation enduring one of its most severe economic crises. "You don't go to Cuba for a vacation; you go to help those facing hunger," commented one user. Others pointed out that the depiction was not of the "Cuba of Cubans" but rather "the tourist Cuba, made up for visitors."
Criticism frequently highlighted the stark contrast between the depicted image and the everyday reality experienced by the citizens. "Cuba is more than just the Capitol and the Malecón," noted an internet user, while others accused influencers with significant reach of "whitewashing a dictatorship" by ignoring the country's issues, such as blackouts, shortages, and repression.
Cuban influencer Kevusho was among those who responded to the video, sharing a message that went viral. He stated that showcasing only "the beautiful" side of Cuba without mentioning the crisis is to "distort reality" and "trivialize a humanitarian situation." He emphasized, "Cuba is beautiful, but beauty doesn't erase repression, poverty, or hunger," highlighting that tourism revenue "doesn't reach the people but goes to state-controlled enterprises."
His response was applauded by hundreds of users who praised him for "saying what many remain silent about." In contrast, Velcheva's original video continues to amass views, dividing opinions between those defending her right to share a personal experience and those arguing that neutrality can be complicity when discussing a country in crisis.
Understanding the Impact of Influencers on Cuba's Image
Why did Velcheva Julia's video about Cuba cause controversy?
Her video was criticized for romanticizing Cuba's poverty and presenting an unrealistic view of the country, ignoring the severe economic and social issues faced by its citizens.
What was the response from Cuban influencer Kevusho?
Kevusho reacted by highlighting that focusing only on the beauty of Cuba without addressing its crises distorts reality and trivializes the humanitarian situation, emphasizing that tourism revenue benefits state enterprises, not the people.