Cuban content creator Osmy (@simplementeosmy1) recently shared a thought-provoking video on TikTok, targeting Cuban women and urging them to rethink the image they present on social media. She appeals to their shared history of overcoming poverty as a testament to their collective dignity.
In this 78-second clip—her first spoken video, as she notes—Osmy expresses concern about frequently encountering videos online where young women appear to depict Cuban women in a somewhat vulgar manner, leading to questions such as, "Are you Cuban?" when seen in public.
Rather than criticizing, Osmy's message aims at empowerment and reclamation.
She taps into the resilience of her fellow Cubans: "Remember, you know poverty. I'm sure there were times when you went to school without proper shoes, yet you persevered." Using this shared memory as a foundation, she argues, "Many of us are professionals who left Cuba and have succeeded," underscoring that "Cuban women are far more than the image some portray globally."
This conversation isn't new within the Cuban diaspora. Earlier this year, content creator Karen Hernández made a similar plea on Instagram, urging the Cuban community to cleanse itself of the pervasive vulgarity on digital platforms and rejecting the sexualization of Cuban women.
In November 2025, influencer La Damosky (Ariagna González) sparked debate by claiming that "decent, refined, and educated" Cuban women avoid using colloquial phrases like "asere qué volá," a stance that polarized the community.
In December 2025, another creator highlighted five recurring negative behaviors among Cuban influencers, ranging from making false promises of help to lying about brand collaborations.
This ongoing issue illustrates a significant tension within the Cuban emigrant community—particularly in the United States—between maintaining cultural authenticity and projecting an image that, according to these creators, honors the educational achievements and sacrifices of Cuban women.
In 2024, a Cuban woman in the United States celebrated the strength and resilience of Cuban women in a viral video, aligning with the same empowerment narrative that Osmy now champions.
Unlike more confrontational voices in the debate, Osmy concludes with an affectionate note that encapsulates her message: "We are all strong and beautiful women. I don't want anyone to feel offended, please, and I love you all."
Understanding the Debate on Cuban Women's Image
What prompted Osmy to create this video message?
Osmy was motivated to create the video after repeatedly seeing online content that she felt portrayed Cuban women in a negative light, prompting her to address this issue publicly.
How does Osmy's approach differ from other creators' messages?
Osmy's approach is more affectionate and empowering, focusing on the resilience and achievements of Cuban women rather than criticizing or confronting them.
What are some of the negative behaviors highlighted by other creators?
Negative behaviors noted by other creators include breaking promises of assistance and dishonesty about brand partnerships, which they believe harm Cuban women's image.