Cuban actress Belissa Cruz finds herself embroiled in controversy after starring in a promotional video for a small business selling a solar panel generator in Cuba. The ad, pitched as a solution to the recurrent power outages plaguing the island, has been perceived by many Cubans as tone-deaf, given the steep price of these devices and the tone of Cruz's message.
In the commercial, Cruz acknowledges the Cuban people's struggles with the energy crisis, expressing their frustration, exhaustion, and despair over enduring long hours without electricity daily. The uproar began when, rather than showing solidarity or supporting protests against this dire situation, the actress suggested an individualist alternative: opting to purchase a power generator instead of joining public demonstrations.
Power Outages, Crisis, and an Ill-Timed Promotion
Power outages in Cuba have reached critical levels in recent months, impacting not only quality of life but also household finances and the emotional well-being of the population. Within this context, promoting a solar panel generator as a personal solution was seen as insensitive, especially since its cost is beyond the reach of the average Cuban.
As the backlash to her video grew, Cruz responded, "I was reading the comments. Don't discriminate against me like that; my job is to promote, and that's all. Thank you all." Reactions were swift, with journalist Alexis Boentes Arias remarking, "That's the problem; your job is just to promote." Another comment urged her to "recognize the country we live in. That promotion doesn't fit us."
One follower sarcastically remarked, "With this month's salary, I'm buying the generator. Lovely promotion, what a shame..." Given that the average state salary is around 4,000 Cuban pesos, and the exchange rate stands at 340 CUP per 1 USD (approximately $11.76), purchasing a generator is unattainable for most families.
Public Outcry and Calls for Awareness
The criticism wasn't limited to ordinary citizens but also came from activists and journalists like José Luis Tan Estrada, who strongly condemned the ad. "Belissa Cruz, promotion? What you need is a sense of shame and not losing it for a little money," he said. "This isn't a 'promotion,' it's mockery of the Cuban people. They are laughing at those who protest against blackouts and poverty, some of whom are imprisoned and can't even afford a generator."
Another user pointed out, "It's true that for you it's just work, but remember, you are a public figure, and ultimately, you're doing this for a very sensitive audience. I suggest that when making ads, consider the misfortune we face and focus more on highlighting any positives in what you're promoting."
Disconnect Between Public Figures and Social Realities
Cruz recently went viral for claiming she would "never emigrate from Cuba" because she enjoys her work, implying that many Cubans abroad have "dead souls" due to working outside their vocations.
This incident highlights not just the public outrage over promoting an unattainable product, but also the widening gap between public figures and the everyday realities of most Cubans. As power outages persist and protests grow, the controversy surrounding Belissa Cruz is a reminder of the social sensitivity that public figures must consider when discussing issues that directly affect the population.
Understanding the Backlash Against Belissa Cruz
What sparked the controversy involving Belissa Cruz?
The controversy arose after Cruz appeared in an ad for a solar generator, which many saw as insensitive given the generator's high cost and the ongoing power outages in Cuba.
Why was the advertisement criticized?
The advertisement was criticized for suggesting an individualistic solution to a widespread problem, appearing to mock those who can't afford such solutions during a national crisis.
How did Belissa Cruz respond to the backlash?
Cruz responded by asking not to be discriminated against and stated her role was simply to promote, a response that many found inadequate given the situation.
What is the broader impact of this controversy?
The incident underscores the disconnect between public figures and the daily struggles of ordinary Cubans, emphasizing the need for sensitivity in public discourse.