A social media content creator has ignited a heated debate by asserting that Cubans who emigrate and accept another nationality automatically abandon their roots and cease to be Cuban. Cuban YouTuber Deni, known for his personal blog "Reflections of Deni," shared a video detailing what he believes prompts Cubans to relinquish their heritage.
"From the moment you decide to leave and build a life in another country, you've given up your roots. When you accept another nationality, another passport, and feel comfortable traveling with it, your children being called Americans, Norwegians, or Swiss, you are no longer Cuban," Deni stated in his controversial message.
Deni further argued that, for many Cubans in exile, one of the most significant days in their lives is when they acquire citizenship in their country of residence, particularly those residing in Miami. He mentioned that many prefer using their new passport, leaving their Cuban passport unused unless required to enter the island.
"Ninety-nine percent of Cubans living abroad would prefer to travel to Cuba with their foreign passport because they feel more protected," he declared.
The Impact of Dual Citizenship on Cuban Identity
His remarks have sparked divided opinions. Some support his stance, arguing that nationality transcends a document and represents a sense of belonging that diminishes with emigration. Others, however, believe that Cuban identity extends beyond a passport and isn't lost by acquiring another nationality.
Highlighted comments from the post include personal experiences and perspectives. One user expressed a strong stance against returning to the island until it is free: "I was forced to renounce when I left. I won't return until Cuba is free. And I thank this country for welcoming me. God bless America."
Others emphasized pride in their heritage despite the distance: "Cuba is not the government; it belongs to the Cubans, not a dictatorship. They will never take away my pride in being Cuban."
Cuban Diaspora and National Identity
Some pointed out that emigration isn't a choice but a necessity: "You never renounced; you were forced to leave due to the situation in Cuba. And I tell you, 100% of those Cubans would return to a free Cuba if they could."
Meanwhile, others highlighted the harsh Cuban reality: "Anyone who experiences what Cubans go through would be happy in another country."
Even individuals from other nationalities defended the idea that Cuban identity surpasses government or political circumstances: "You might be the only Cuban who doesn't love their culture and roots. It's true they don't love the dictatorship, but that is your country, the one you were born into."
This debate adds to a broader conversation about the Cuban diaspora and the relationship between emigrants and their homeland. Meanwhile, the video continues to generate interactions, solidifying positions among those who resonate with Deni's words and those who strongly criticize him.
Cuban Citizenship Legislation
In June 2024, the Cuban government introduced a Citizenship Law project outlining procedures for renouncing and losing Cuban citizenship. According to the law, approved in July, renunciation is only accepted if done from abroad and the applicant possesses another nationality to prevent statelessness. Additionally, conditions such as being over 18, having no debts to the Cuban state, and not serving a sentence or being pursued for a crime are required.
The law also introduces the concept of "Effective Citizenship," which requires Cuban citizens to use their Cuban citizenship for entering, staying, transiting, and leaving national territory, as well as for identification in all legal and political acts conducted in Cuba. This means that even if another nationality is acquired, Cuban citizenship is not automatically lost and must prevail within the country.
It's crucial to note that while the 2019 Constitution acknowledges the possibility of renouncing Cuban citizenship, the absence of a specific Citizenship Law has hindered the immediate exercise of this right. The Migration Law project mentions this possibility but requires detailed legislation to clearly establish procedures and competent authorities for renouncing Cuban citizenship.
These regulations have sparked discussions about the identity and rights of Cubans residing abroad who acquire another nationality. While some believe accepting another citizenship signifies a renunciation of Cuban roots, others argue that national identity extends beyond legal documentation and that maintaining a cultural and emotional connection with Cuba is possible regardless of legal status.
Understanding Cuban National Identity and Citizenship
What prompted Deni to make his controversial statement?
Deni believes that accepting another nationality and living abroad means abandoning Cuban roots, a view he expressed in his video.
How does the new Cuban Citizenship Law affect emigrants?
The law outlines conditions for renouncing Cuban citizenship and introduces "Effective Citizenship," requiring Cubans to use their Cuban nationality within the country.
Can a Cuban retain their cultural identity after accepting another nationality?
Many argue that Cuban identity goes beyond legal status and that cultural and emotional ties can remain intact despite acquiring a different nationality.