Lisandra Morales, a Cuban living in the United States, delivered a heartfelt and thought-provoking message to her TikTok followers, where she goes by @lisandra_morales. In the video she shared on the platform, she delves into the experience of being Cuban abroad and highlights how many people judge them without fully understanding the circumstances they've faced due to being born in Cuba. "The first part is for those who are not Cuban, and the second is for my fellow countrymen," she explains.
During the initial segment of the video, Morales addresses the criticism aimed at Cubans for donning gold chains, purchasing luxury cars while living in "efficiencies," or managing to bring their entire families from Cuba without financial means. "You know what's not easy? Being born in a land you didn't choose and where basic needs weren't available to you," she states, reflecting on the harsh conditions many Cubans endured, such as the lack of food, water, electricity, and even a decent roof over their heads.
For Morales, the demeanor of Cubans upon arriving in the United States is a manifestation of their need to demonstrate that they've overcome adversity, even if appearances don't always tell the whole story. "Before judging, try to see the person in front of you; they are as human as you are. They have as many pains and voids as you do, regardless of what their chains might suggest," she passionately expresses in her video.
Highlighting Cuban Resilience and Joy
Morales also emphasizes the resilient and joyful spirit of Cubans, who, despite hardships, embody laughter, dance, and music, often finding humor in their own struggles. She recalls how, even amidst blackouts and shortages of water and food, Cubans manage to celebrate and find joy in the streets. "It's called a defense mechanism," she explains, noting that Cubans have endured challenges that many fail to comprehend.
Calling for Unity Among Cubans
In the latter part of her message, aimed at her fellow Cubans, Morales calls for solidarity. She reminds them that they are no longer in Cuba and that in the United States, "there is enough for everyone." Urging her compatriots to be more generous and leave competition behind, she states, "Shine a light on others. You can make a difference. Be the difference."
Moreover, she stresses the importance of sharing opportunities with other Cubans striving to make their way. "Open the door for them, tell them where you found the job, who the boss is, and what the phone number is. It's called brotherhood, and many of us lack it," she concludes with a hopeful and unifying tone.
This message has gone viral, sparking thousands of reactions and comments from Cubans both on the island and in exile, who resonate with Lisandra Morales's sentiments.