A Cuban living in the United States, Gabriel Alcántara, has captured significant attention with a viral Facebook video that has amassed over 361,000 views. His message is clear and straightforward: if you have the chance to leave Cuba, do it without hesitation.
Alcántara speaks from personal experience. He left the island on a raft in 1994 during the mass exodus of the rafters and has been residing in Miami with his family for over three decades.
"If you're in Cuba right now and have the chance to leave, do it. That's the only worthwhile pursuit in Cuba: getting out," he advises.
Unyielding Reality of Cuba's Future
His message dismisses any hope for a near-term recovery, regardless of potential political changes. "Forget about expecting things to improve someday, whether Trump comes or goes. Even if Trump became the president of Cuba today, it would take years upon years for things to get better. That country is in complete ruin," Alcántara asserts.
To emphasize his point, Alcántara highlights Cuba's structural deficiencies: "There's no infrastructure, no proper sewage system, no roads, no functioning water pipes, and no reliable power plants."
The Risks Under the Regime
He also warns of the insecurity faced by those with properties and businesses under the regime: "Whenever the government feels like it, they can take your property. The only viable endeavor in Cuba is leaving."
His advice is to sell anything necessary—a bicycle, a pig, a cellphone—to finance the journey, suggesting a route through Surinam and then Brazil as the most feasible at the moment. "You will never have a fulfilling life living in Cuba," he concludes.
Migration Trends Reflect Reality
Alcántara's viewpoint aligns with the current wave of migration. In 2025, Brazil received 41,919 asylum applications from Cubans, marking an 88.1% increase from the previous year, surpassing Venezuelans as the leading nationality seeking refuge. By April 2026, 13,414 new applications had been recorded.
Comments on the video reveal the resonance of his message. A woman from Camagüey who emigrated to Brazil shared, "I clean floors with pride in a hospital because the salary is higher than working in a market. I live without stress, without chasing after food or electricity. In Cuba, I had a house but no life."
A man who left during the Mariel boatlift in 1980 was more definitive: "It will never be a normal country again. The damage, especially the anthropological damage, is beyond repair."
Another user emphasized the need to change the mindset of a corrupt society that desires money without hard work and sacrifice. "They resort to theft and think they are clever with those who employ them. The first step is to correct these societal flaws before rebuilding the country."
"Cubans have no other options, go wherever you can, don't fear change because nothing could be worse," urged another emigrant.
Insights into Cuba's Exodus and Future
Why is Gabriel Alcántara's video gaining attention?
The video resonates with many due to Alcántara's direct advice to leave Cuba if possible, reflecting a broader sentiment of despair over the country's future.
What does Alcántara suggest for those in Cuba?
He advises Cubans to sell any possessions necessary to finance their departure, suggesting a route through Surinam and Brazil as a feasible option.
How do current migration trends reflect Alcántara's message?
The increase in asylum applications from Cubans in Brazil and other countries underscores the urgency and validity of his message about leaving Cuba.