After more than four and a half years longing to embrace each other again, two Cuban sisters have finally reunited in the United States, where one of them lives.
On TikTok, user @caridayanet touched many hearts with the video capturing the moment she reunited with her sister after "4 years, 7 months, 3 days, and 7 hours apart." The young woman, named Caridad Yanet, arrived at the airport dressed entirely in yellow and wrapped in an American flag. The background music in the reunion video is "Te Esperé" by Jesse & Joy, a song often used for such emotional content on the platform.
"Finally with my sister. Thanks to God and everything that exists," she wrote on the platform, where congratulations, messages of support, empathy, and even longing for similar family situations quickly poured in.
"I'm counting the days to give that hug to my daughter; it's been a year and a month since I last saw her," one user commented. "What a beautiful Oshún outfit, blessings," another added. "I cried; how wonderful when we finally achieve it, congratulations," said another. "Likewise, many congratulations. I also have my other half far from me, but I know we will be together soon. I have great faith in Oshún, and thankfully, both of us are crowned by her, plus my mom," another person shared. "For us, the daughters of Yalorde, everything is difficult, but believe me, we achieve it because no orisha is more perseverant than her, blessings," another noted. "In 15 days, I'll have mine here, 6 years without seeing her, blessings to your family," someone else added.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cuban Family Reunions in the United States
Given the emotional and often complex nature of reuniting families separated across international borders, especially under the current political climate in Cuba, here are some frequently asked questions and answers that may provide further insights.
Why are many Cuban families separated for long periods?
Many Cuban families face prolonged separation due to the restrictive political and economic environment in Cuba, which often forces individuals to seek better opportunities abroad.
How do Cubans typically reunite with their families in the United States?
Reunions usually occur when family members manage to secure visas or residency permits, often through sponsorships, humanitarian programs, or asylum requests.
What role does social media play in these reunions?
Social media platforms like TikTok provide a space for sharing these emotional moments with a broader audience, offering support and raising awareness about the challenges faced by separated families.