The TikTok user @reinier_delgado recently shared a video that has sparked a wide-ranging debate among Cubans. In his message, the Cuban—who, based on online information, appears to live in Florida—criticized fellow Cubans who claim to be from Havana despite not being from there.
"I would like someone to answer this question. This is for Cubans; if you're not Cuban, move along... Why do 95% of people you ask where they're from say they are Habaneros? Brother, let me give you some brotherly advice... What's the need to pretend you're from Havana?" he said.
He emphasized the importance of being genuine and authentic about one's place of origin. "When people ask me where I'm from, I tell the truth that I'm not from Havana," he added in the video, where he also mentioned those who try to pass as 'chabacanos' without being one.
"This is for Cubans who deceive themselves. Bro, don't pretend to be what you're not," he wrote about the video that has elicited a diverse range of opinions: "I'm a guajiro from Las Tunas and really, everyone says they're from Havana"; "I'm from Holguín"; "I'm from Camagüey"; "I'm from Guantánamo and very proud of it"; "This man is speaking the truth. He is absolutely right"; "But being from another province doesn't make you any less than Habaneros, I don't get what the problem is"; "Nobody is from the countryside. Everyone lives on El Malecón," people commented.
Understanding the Debate on Cuban Identity
This section addresses common questions about the debate sparked by @reinier_delgado's TikTok video, focusing on Cuban identity and regional pride.
Why do some Cubans falsely claim to be from Havana?
Many feel that being from Havana carries a certain prestige or social advantage, leading them to falsely claim it as their origin.
What is the significance of being genuine about one's place of origin?
Being honest about one's origin fosters authenticity and helps maintain the cultural diversity and regional pride within the Cuban community.
How has the TikTok video by @reinier_delgado influenced public opinion?
The video has generated a mix of reactions, with many supporting the call for authenticity while others reflect on the societal pressures leading to such pretenses.