The Cuban tiktoker @yai_lent did not stay silent and firmly responded to a user who criticized her for attending the concert of the reggaeton artists Dany Ome and Kevincito without mentioning the Cuban dictatorship. “I went to enjoy, to dance, not to engage in politics,” she said in a video that generated dozens of reactions.
Everything began when a user left a comment saying: “Those who don’t speak about dictatorship, how shameful. Cubans giving money to these two.” Far from ignoring it, the young woman posted another video in which she clarified her stance: “I didn’t go for ideology, I went for the music. In Cuba, nobody spoke about dictatorship publicly, but now, on this side of the pond, everyone wants to talk about it.”
The creator questioned why everything needs to be politicized, including entertainment spaces. “Why does every space have to become a battleground? That’s what is embarrassing,” she expressed. She added, with an ironic tone, that she didn’t know one had to bring “a sign saying 'Down with the dictatorship' or create a list of conscience” to attend a concert.
Her response generated all kinds of reactions, although most were supportive. "They are musicians, not politicians," commented one user. Another opinion stated, "Concerts are not an open forum." And there were those who raised uncomfortable questions: "Why didn't they shout that out on May 1?" said another internet user.
A quienes called her "chiva" or accused her of being silent for convenience, @yai_lent responded directly: “When I spoke about dictatorship, it was when I left my job in Cuba, when I emigrated. But at a concert… I leave that to you! I can't sing, dance, and give a speech all at the same time. It's not possible to do so many things at once”, she said.
With their response, a recurring debate among Cubans inside and outside the island was reignited: Should we speak out at all times? Or is it also valid to simply enjoy, without slogans, labels, or banners?
Frequently Asked Questions about the Participation of Cubans in Concerts and Political Debate
Why do some Cubans criticize attending concerts without political statements?
Some Cubans hope that attendees at concerts of Cuban artists abroad will take the opportunity to express their rejection of the Cuban regime. The criticism arises from the desire for any platform, including concerts, to be used to highlight the opposition to the Cuban government. This expectation has generated divisions within the Cuban community in exile, where some believe that cultural events should be spaces for enjoyment and disconnection, rather than political protest.
What do some Cubans think about the politicization of concerts?
Many Cubans believe that concerts should be spaces to enjoy music and not to address political issues. This viewpoint argues that nothing concrete is achieved with political proclamations at a concert and that it's more effective to take direct action in Cuba. Furthermore, the effectiveness of shouting slogans at a music event is questioned, and those who criticize are challenged to take direct actions instead of waiting for others to do so during concerts.
What are the consequences of divisions within the Cuban diaspora on political issues during concerts?
The divisions within the Cuban diaspora reflect differing perspectives on how to approach political struggle from exile. While some advocate for open demonstrations at any public event, others believe that entertainment spaces should remain separate from politics. These differences spark intense debates that highlight the diversity of opinions within the Cuban community, especially regarding how identity and political resistance should be expressed.
Why do some Cubans advocate for enjoying concerts without politicizing them?
They argue that concerts are spaces to enjoy and disconnect from political reality. This perspective maintains that not all public spaces should become platforms for political protest, and that it is valid to simply enjoy music and entertainment without carrying political messages. Furthermore, they emphasize that the responsibility to fight against the regime should fall more on direct actions within Cuba rather than on demonstrations abroad.
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