Cinthya Medrano, widely recognized by Cubans as La Cintumbare, continues to stir conversation online following her deportation to Cuba in February. Recently, she has been showcasing her contentment on the island. During a lively moment at Alexander Abreu and Havana D’Primera's concert at Havana's Johnny Club last Friday night, she grabbed the microphone to declare to the audience, "You all know I was deported from the United States, well, I wasn't deported, I deported myself. I want to tell you that they didn't deport me; I deported myself."
She continued, "I'm happy because I'm in my country, my homeland, where I was born and raised. If they had deported me to Africa or Haiti, I would be crying, but here I am in my land, happier than ever, I swear. I'm with my family, my child, my fans, my audience, the people who support me."
Despite her assertions, many internet users are skeptical, suggesting she's projecting an image rather than reflecting reality. Comments on social media range from disbelief to criticism: "It's like she's got a shoe on her head"; "But don’t cry, be strong, now repeat with me, you were deported"; "Seems like she's skinnier, that's called hunger, blackouts, and misery"; "No one's buying it, not even the one who broke up with you, you're back in the hell everyone wants to escape from, back to the trash heap"; "She says she wasn't deported, she deported herself. Did she also imprison herself in an ICE facility?"; "Why, if she loves her country so much and is so happy there, did she decide to leave in the first place?"
The controversy surrounding La Cintumbare extends beyond her words to the image she tries to portray since her return. Critics argue that the influencer is attempting to spin her deportation into a story of empowerment while downplaying the harsh realities faced by millions of Cubans. Her narrative seems to gloss over the healthcare system's deficiencies, food shortages, and lack of freedoms that have driven many, including herself, to emigrate.
Furthermore, her public appearance and enthusiastic expressions have been interpreted by some as an effort to align with official sectors, further fueling the debate. The disconnect between her "complete happiness" narrative and the country's everyday struggles has led many to accuse her of hypocrisy or manipulating her story for media attention.
Questions about La Cintumbare's Situation in Cuba
Why did La Cintumbare claim she deported herself?
La Cintumbare stated that she deported herself to emphasize her decision to return to Cuba, portraying it as a personal choice rather than a forced deportation.
How have social media users reacted to her statements?
Social media users have expressed skepticism and disbelief, with many suggesting that her narrative is inconsistent with the realities faced by most Cubans.
What are the criticisms regarding her portrayal of happiness in Cuba?
Critics argue that La Cintumbare's portrayal of happiness overlooks the significant challenges of living in Cuba, including issues related to healthcare, food, and personal freedoms.