Roy, a Cuban residing in the United States and a popular figure on TikTok, has sparked intense discussions online with a heartfelt video addressing the attitudes of some of his fellow countrymen towards the Latino community. The video, which has garnered thousands of interactions, sees Roy urging others not to judge all Cubans as a monolith, emphasizing that many have moved past the hatred and resentment instilled by the regime they grew up under. "I am ashamed of Cubans who derogatorily refer to other Latinos as 'Indians'," he stated.
Roy also criticized immigrants who support measures against other migrants: "I am ashamed of those who, despite being immigrants themselves, back mass deportations." He highlighted how some forget their roots and the sacrifices their families made: "I am ashamed of those who, living in an altered reality, feel superior to other immigrants and Latinos, of those who have forgotten where they came from, and the sacrifices their families made for them to be here today."
In the conclusion of his video, Roy asked the Latino community to avoid judging all Cubans collectively: "Please, let us be judged as individuals, not as a society." His message has resonated with many on TikTok, garnering support from users of various nationalities. A standout response came from a user who commented, "Here’s a Cuban who agrees with you and respects other Latinos. We are all the same, regardless of nationality." Another Cuban user shared, "I'm Cuban just like you and I'm ashamed to be Cuban right now." A person of Mexican descent expressed gratitude: "Thank you for your words. Not everyone is the same, and your message shows there are Cubans with great humility and empathy."
Despite acknowledging that his message might cost him followers, some Cubans supported Roy: "You'll lose many Cuban followers, but you'll gain many more. God bless you," wrote one user. Another thanked him for his stance, saying, "Beautiful humility, my friend, a hug." Similarly, one person commented, "That's how I feel. I'm Cuban and I admire you." His message also prompted self-reflection among other Cubans, with one writing, "Sometimes I feel ashamed to be Cuban, but I support you." Meanwhile, another emphasized the importance of not generalizing: "We shouldn't generalize about Cubans. Like anywhere, there are people who understand empathy and many who don't." A follower praised Roy's attitude directly: "Congratulations, brother. Not everyone is the same. I think like you, and I'm Cuban too."
Roy's self-critical stance has resonated with many, reflecting an effort to foster unity and understanding among Latinos. His message serves as a reminder that, despite differences, everyone shares the common struggle of seeking a better future away from their homelands.
Recent immigration policies under the Trump administration have significantly impacted the Cuban community in the U.S. and migrants still attempting to enter the country. Among the most controversial measures are the termination of humanitarian parole, the reinstatement of the "Remain in Mexico" program, and ICE's activation of raids and mass deportations. While the U.S. government claims these actions aim to bolster national security, they have increased uncertainty among immigrants and drawn criticism from various sectors.
Amid this tightening of immigration policy, thousands of Cubans are stranded in Mexico, where asylum offices are overwhelmed, making it harder to gain refuge in the U.S. Simultaneously, Mexico has announced a repatriation plan for migrants affected by these measures, including Cuban nationals. Statements from the White House labeling all irregular immigrants as "criminals" have fueled further controversy and intensified debates on the region's migration future.
As raids continue and the first deportation flights have commenced, human rights organizations have warned about the humanitarian impact of these policies. Concurrently, Cuban former president Miguel Díaz-Canel's criticism of U.S. deportations has been interpreted by many as a political maneuver without genuine intent to defend Cuban migrants, who continue to face uncertainty under the new U.S. administration.
Impact of U.S. Immigration Policies on Cubans
What are some of the recent U.S. immigration policies affecting Cubans?
Recent policies include the termination of humanitarian parole, the reinstatement of the "Remain in Mexico" program, and mass deportations conducted by ICE.
How have these policies affected Cuban migrants in Mexico?
Many Cuban migrants are stranded in Mexico due to overwhelmed asylum offices, making it difficult to seek refuge in the U.S.
Why has there been criticism of U.S. immigration policies?
Critics argue that these policies increase uncertainty among immigrants and have significant humanitarian impacts, with many viewing them as politically motivated.