Carelis Conde, a Cuban woman residing in the United States, has taken to video to address a divisive issue among migrants: the comparisons of how each person reached their new home. To kick off her reflection, she shared actual comments she found on social media, where some migrants downplay the hardships faced by others. "Those who arrived with parole don’t know what it means to go through hardships," read one comment she cited. Another declared, "I came on a raft, spent four days at sea. I don't understand why those arriving by plane, fresh and comfortable, are complaining." She also highlighted phrases like, "Crossing five countries and going through the Darién Gap is worse than risking the sea."
After reviewing these messages, Carelis pondered, "Why do we fall into comparisons? Is your immigration situation any less painful than mine? Am I the only one who struggled to get where I am?" Her reflection centered on the notion that every immigration experience is unique and valid, and comparing them only fosters unnecessary division among people who share the pain of leaving their homeland and starting anew.
Unique Journeys, Shared Struggles
Speaking with empathy, Conde emphasized that every migration story holds its own value, regardless of the method or timing. "Each scar, each tear, shapes who you are. That makes you unique," she expressed. "Thinking someone is less capable because they didn’t experience what you did is forgetting that, as immigrants, regardless of how, we all endure a loss," she added.
Her message resonated with many, prompting users to share their own stories. "I crossed five countries with my daughter; I still have nightmares, but we all faced something tough," one person wrote. Another commented, "We all suffer in one way or another; in the end, we're far from our loved ones, starting from scratch." Someone else added, "Leaving your country is always a painful sacrifice, no matter how it was done."
Contrasting Opinions on Shared Experiences
Not all opinions aligned with Conde's message, as some pointed out differences in the processes. "We shouldn't compare, but those who came with parole have it easier," noted one user. Another remarked, "The early arrivals paved the way for the Cuban Adjustment Act, but we continue to fight for our legal status."
On the other hand, some comments celebrated the call for empathy and unity. "All migrants share something: leaving behind who we are. That unites us more than it divides us," affirmed one person. Another user summarized, "In the end, we all suffer and must adapt; comparing leads us nowhere."
Embracing the Strength of Migration
The variety of reactions also included emotional messages: "I spent 13 days in the Darién jungle, but I agree with her: each experience has its value." Another shared, "The sea was my challenge, and though I survived, I know others' journeys were tough too." Conversely, someone noted, "The process of migrating is different for everyone, but starting over in a new country always hurts."
Carelis concluded her reflection with an invitation to look beyond differences and appreciate what unites immigrants: the resilience to face such a monumental change, regardless of how they arrived.