Portrait of My Mother: A Reflection of Resilience

This portrait features Mirta Rodríguez, my mother, as she carries a box of cigarettes inside her brother-in-law's home on May 9, 2024. Amidst the ongoing economic crisis that has gripped Cuba since the triumph of the socialist revolution, many elderly citizens have turned to selling cigarettes and other goods as a means of survival. This image serves as a poignant reminder of the struggles faced by the older generation, who are often left to navigate these challenging circumstances alone. The act of selling cigarettes has become a necessity for many, reflecting the harsh realities of daily life on the island. Through this visual narrative, I aim to highlight both the resilience and the vulnerability of those affected by economic hardship.