In a heartfelt video posted on TikTok, a Cuban woman living in the United States opened up about her frustration and sadness over the lack of consideration from some of her relatives in Cuba.
In the video, which has garnered numerous supportive comments, @yensywilson84 also addressed the difficulties and sacrifices that many Cuban immigrants face in their efforts to provide a better future for their loved ones.
Struggles of Cuban Immigrants
"There are many people, including myself, who work 10, 12, 13, 14 hours. We have two or three jobs, and the money just disappears as soon as it comes in. We are sacrificing so much, and it's really hard to save any money right now," the young woman explained in the video, her emotions palpable.
Yensy also expressed her sorrow over the lack of empathy from relatives who don't inquire about her well-being before sharing their own problems: "If I pick up the phone to call you and you notice that I am completely silent, before you start talking about your problems, ask me, 'Yensy, how are you? How's everything going? My love, you look tired, you haven't done your hair, your nails look bad, you don't seem well,'" she recounted. She highlighted that many Cubans in the United States face severe financial difficulties, including having to sleep in their cars due to lack of work.
Misconceptions and Realities
The Cuban woman also touched on the erroneous perception some people on the island have about immigrants: "Nobody sees the sacrifices we make here," she lamented, sharing that she often feels misunderstood and used. "We've become like ATMs. I know the Cuban government is in a terrible state, things are very bad in Cuba, but here... You spend a long time not going to Cuba, and when you finally go after 10 years, 7 years, it's heartbreaking because nothing you do is ever enough: 'Is this the crap you brought me after all this time?' They even stop talking to you."
The video has resonated with many other compatriots in similar situations: "I completely agree, this is the sad reality, we are ATMs, there is no family love anymore"; "All true, that's why I put myself first and everyone else can wait"; "I sent a watch to my dad and I have my own problems here, he didn't call to console me, and a month later he called just to thank me for the watch"; "Most of us experience the same, I send things to my cousins and they don't even write to thank me, I top up their phones and no thanks, very true"; "Many people in Cuba think that because we are here, we are responsible for solving their problems and don't realize we have a thousand stresses here too," commented others.
The user concluded her message with a call for consideration and empathy, reminding that although the situation in Cuba is difficult, Cubans in the United States also face enormous challenges.
Challenges Faced by Cuban Immigrants in the US
Here are some common questions and answers about the struggles and misconceptions faced by Cuban immigrants in the US.
What are the main challenges faced by Cuban immigrants in the US?
Cuban immigrants often work long hours at multiple jobs and still struggle to save money. They face financial difficulties and sometimes even have to sleep in their cars due to lack of work.
Why do some relatives in Cuba have misconceptions about immigrants?
Many people in Cuba believe that those who move to the US automatically become financially stable and responsible for solving their problems, without understanding the sacrifices and hardships faced by immigrants.
How can empathy and consideration be fostered between Cuban immigrants and their relatives?
Empathy and consideration can be fostered by open communication, understanding each other's struggles, and showing appreciation for the sacrifices made. Relatives should ask about the well-being of their loved ones before discussing their own problems.