A video posted on TikTok by Alexis Matalobos (@alexismatalobos4) highlights the harsh realities faced by many Cuban families when it comes to basic tasks like doing laundry. This viral footage captures a family on the island using a severely worn-out, ancient washing machine, struggling to get their clothes clean.
The video paints a picture of the everyday struggles for many in Cuba, where having access to modern and well-functioning appliances is a luxury few can afford. Accompanying the video is a text expressing both resignation and anger: "This is life under communism in Cuba in 2024. We're living in the stone age. Díaz-Canel is a jerk. Communism is misery."
This social media post has struck a chord with TikTok users, who voice their outrage over the dire conditions in which thousands of Cubans live, even in the 21st century. Comments are filled with both solidarity and frustration, with some users noting how this situation underscores the daily hardships faced by island residents. Remarks such as "So sad," "The harsh reality of Cubans," and "It pains me to see Cuba and its people like this" reflect the widespread dismay.
The Impact of Economic Crisis on Daily Life
Amid the country's economic crisis, access to basic goods and services has become increasingly restricted, directly impacting the quality of life for its citizens. The inability to replace or repair appliances such as washing machines, refrigerators, or stoves forces many households to rely on outdated devices or traditional methods, adding physical and emotional strain to families.
The phrase "we're living in the stone age," used in the video, not only criticizes the current government but also highlights the sense of neglect and backwardness felt by many people on the island.