A video circulating on social media features a Cuban woman in the United States saving liquor bottles with the intention of filling them with water and a bit of coffee to simulate rum and use them as decorations. This illustrates an old habit ingrained in those born in the Caribbean nation to recycle and reuse old containers, which would then be displayed as if they were filled with alcoholic beverages.
Influencer Lianet Martí shared the video on Instagram, showing her mother determined to uphold this traditional Cuban ritual. She is seen rescuing two liquor bottles from the trash and declaring she will fill them with water and a bit of coffee. "I still have some Cuba left in me," said her mother, resolute in giving the bottles a new purpose.
"Tell me you have a Cuban mom without telling me you have a Cuban mom," Martí remarked, as she unsuccessfully tried to throw the bottles away. In the comments section, many people agreed that this is indeed an old custom passed down in various Cuban households. One person noted that this practice is also common in homes in Venezuela and Paraguay. Others mentioned that they have maintained this and other customs even outside of Cuba.
Cuban Cultural Traditions in the U.S.
This section addresses common questions and answers about the persistence of Cuban traditions among Cuban-Americans in the United States.
Why do Cuban-Americans continue old customs like decorating with repurposed bottles?
Many Cuban-Americans maintain old customs as a way to preserve their cultural heritage and stay connected to their roots, even when living abroad.
Is the practice of repurposing bottles unique to Cuban culture?
While it is a notable tradition in Cuban culture, similar practices are also observed in other countries like Venezuela and Paraguay, where people repurpose bottles for decorative purposes.