Cuban actor and comedian Edy Suárez took to Instagram on Monday to express concern over the increasing hostility, vulgarity, and disrespect he observes daily among the Cuban community on social media. He urged his fellow Cubans to unite and build something positive rather than continue to drift apart.
Accompanying his post with the caption "We can do better," Suárez admitted that maintaining pride in his Cuban heritage requires more effort: "Every day when I log onto social media, I have to consciously work to continue feeling proud of being Cuban."
Suárez, renowned for his character "Sumailyn," shared that he finds pride by connecting with his roots and celebrating the Cubans who thrive globally. However, the environment he encounters on digital platforms seems increasingly foreign to him.
"I confess, it's hard to see. Lately, all I witness is division, criticism, vulgarity, lack of intelligence, and cheap gossip," Suárez wrote, posing a direct question to his followers: "Aren't we ashamed?"
His message wasn't aimed at any specific event or individual but served as a broad critique of the public discourse among Cubans, both on and off the Island.
Understanding the Root Causes
Suárez acknowledged the historical context behind this fracture: "I know we are a wounded, hurt community, stripped of many principles due to a dictatorship." Nevertheless, he argued that this background should not justify perpetuating the same behaviors, especially among those who have emigrated: "But especially for those who've left, isn't it time to stop repeating these patterns?"
The post quickly resonated, garnering hundreds of comments within hours, indicating the message struck a chord within the community.
The Broader Context of Polarization
Suárez's call comes in the midst of growing polarization within the Cuban diaspora on social media, marked by frequent clashes over politics, travel to Cuba, and opposition leadership. He is not the first to speak out; last May, entrepreneur Iván Herrera also appealed to Cubans to respect one another despite their differences, emphasizing that the true enemy is the dictatorship, not their compatriots.
Frequently Asked Questions about Edy Suárez's Message
What prompted Edy Suárez to share his message on social media?
Edy Suárez was motivated by the divisive, vulgar, and disrespectful interactions he witnessed daily among the Cuban community on social media platforms.
How has the Cuban community responded to Edy Suárez's call for unity?
The community responded promptly, with the post receiving hundreds of comments in a short time, suggesting that many resonated with Suárez's message.
What historical factors does Suárez believe contribute to the division among Cubans?
Suárez points to the legacy of dictatorship in Cuba as a factor that has contributed to the community's wounds and the erosion of its principles.