"I can't sit down to eat knowing my mom or dad might not have anything to eat, not just on New Year's Eve, but any day," expressed a Cuban woman residing in the United States in a video that has sparked a discussion among emigrants regarding sending money to their families on the island. The author of this heartfelt message, psychologist Carelis Conde, shared her perspective with sincerity, emphasizing that although she prioritizes her own well-being, she cannot ignore the needs of those she left behind.
In her honest reflection posted on her TikTok account @carelisconde, she addressed the dilemma faced by many Cubans living abroad, clarifying that her intent is not to judge those who make different choices but to ask for respect towards those who place their loved ones first. "Everyone is free to think and act differently, and I don't wish to change your view, but please respect mine and my pain, because it's not about money or politics, it's about blood and emotions," she stated.
The post triggered a flood of comments, dividing opinions between those who agree with her stance and those who argue that sending money supports the island's political system. Some users expressed full support: "First you're a child, then a patriot"; "My family comes first, I don't believe in any social media bravado"; "To my family in Cuba, my mother, my child, and my siblings, I'd send the sky if they asked, and nothing comes above that"; "I can't eat bread knowing my mom has nothing to eat."
Other comments highlighted the sacrifice involved in sending remittances to Cuba: "My money is mine, and if I have to work hard so my mother in Cuba has what she needs, I'll do it. I'm sure she went through much more hardship for me"; "I wasn't wrong to follow you, you say exactly what we want to say but can't find the words"; "The dictatorship doesn't concern me, just my family. Anyone living abroad who doesn't help their own has no heart"; "It's my money and I'll spend it on my family, because ultimately I owe nothing to anyone."
However, some criticized this viewpoint, pointing out that it helps maintain the status quo: "It's not about not sending money for food and medicine, but about not supporting a political system that relies on remittances"; "We need to find a way to get the family out rather than sustaining them"; "The government will never fall if we keep sending money. That's the truth no one wants to hear."
Despite differing opinions, many agreed on the difficulty of being far from loved ones: "It's easy to talk when you don't have anyone there. I have my mother, my daughter, my siblings, and I'll always help them when I can"; "I stand with you a hundred percent. No one understands what it's like knowing your family has nothing to eat"; "It's the price I have to pay. As long as my family is there, I'll keep helping them, even if it's not what others want."
With over ten thousand likes and thousands of views, Carelis Conde's video continues to fuel the debate on a topic as complex as it is emotional, where emotions, responsibilities, and political stances intersect.
Debate on Supporting Family in Cuba
Why do some Cubans in the U.S. send money to their families in Cuba?
Many Cubans in the U.S. send money to their families in Cuba to ensure their basic needs are met, motivated by a sense of responsibility and emotional connection to their loved ones on the island.
What criticisms exist regarding sending money to Cuba?
Critics argue that sending money helps sustain the Cuban political system, as the government heavily relies on remittances to support its economy.
How do people justify sending money despite political concerns?
People justify sending money by prioritizing their family's immediate needs over political implications, viewing it as a personal choice driven by familial love and duty.