The Cuban content creator on TikTok, Nathyy Zaldivar Toro (@nathyy.zaldivar.t), has once again defended her stance on sending remittances to her family in Cuba after receiving several comments on her previous videos. In a new post, Nathyy responded to a user who claimed that Cubans will remain in the same situation for "100 more years" because they are allowed to leave the country and send money back.
Making it clear that her priority is ensuring her family doesn't go hungry, she responded energetically, arguing that the decision to send remittances should not be seen as indirect support for the dictatorship, as some suggest, but rather as a responsibility toward her loved ones. "My family will live well until they can be here with me," expressed the young woman, emphasizing that her main concern is guaranteeing her relatives' well-being on the island, irrespective of political debates.
This exchange follows a previous video where she defended her decision to send money despite those who believe it helps sustain the Cuban regime. On that occasion, she also made it clear that her focus is on helping her loved ones as long as they are living in Cuba.
User reactions quickly surfaced, generating a mix of opinions in the comments. Some supported her stance: "Exactly, you are amazing"; "God always protects you, you are very special and very sincere"; "I agree with you, I send money to my people too, and let them keep talking"; "Our families are not to blame for politics"; "I also send money to my family as I please. You are absolutely right, there is no discussion. My children and parents can't go through hardship or hunger in Cuba."
However, there were also criticisms directed at her and her position.
The debate over sending remittances to Cuba has generated a lot of controversy among Cubans both inside and outside the island, with divided opinions between those who believe it helps sustain the regime and others who, like Nathyy, prioritize their families' well-being and support amid a prolonged situation of shortages, precariousness, and crisis.
Controversies Surrounding Remittances to Cuba
The topic of sending remittances to Cuba is highly debated, with varying opinions. Here are some common questions and answers that delve deeper into this issue.
Why do some Cubans in the USA send remittances to their families in Cuba?
Many Cubans in the USA send remittances to ensure their families do not suffer from hunger or lack basic needs, prioritizing their loved ones' well-being over political implications.
Do remittances help sustain the Cuban regime?
Some argue that remittances provide financial support to the regime, indirectly sustaining it. However, others believe that the primary purpose is to support their families during times of crisis.
What are the main arguments against sending remittances to Cuba?
Critics argue that remittances can prolong the regime's power by providing it with a steady flow of foreign currency, which they believe could be used to reinforce the government's control.