A Cuban woman participating in the I-220A immigration process in the United States has sparked a wave of reactions after sharing a video on TikTok in which she calls for faith, unity, and hope for the thousands of migrants facing uncertainty regarding their legal status.
"I know very well what you are going through. I know these are difficult times, full of uncertainty and distress... because just like you, I am I-220A, just like you I have fears, just like you I have my struggles with anxiety and depression," says the young woman identified as @deimysespinosa in a video that has gone viral in recent days.
"I am not willing to give up what God has done for me up to this moment to a man, nor to yield to the will of any man," she adds. "We are going to stand firm, we are going to be strong, we are going to move forward with everything, and we are going to get through this process. But do you know how we come out of this process? All united, on our knees, and looking up to the sky."
The message, intimate and spiritual in tone, has garnered tens of thousands of views and reactions among Cubans in the United States. “When I kneel down to pray to God, I don’t ask for my residency, because I don't want just my residency to come. I want residency to be granted to the thousands and thousands of immigrants who have had to make the difficult decision to leave their country, leaving behind children, parents, grandparents, everything,” he asserts.
The video generated a wave of comments. Many express their gratitude for the words of encouragement and relate to the message. "Your words gave me peace of mind," wrote one person. Another commented, "I don’t usually comment on anything, but this is the first video I’ve seen that resonates with me and contains the right words of encouragement that I give myself every night before sleeping."
"How beautiful, your words gave me so much peace," someone else remarked. There were also reactions from people in difficult situations: "My husband doesn't want to wait for his turn; he wants to go to Cuba because he says there is no hope," a woman wrote. "I’m struggling with all of this," confessed another.
Most of the responses revolve around faith. "Only God knows my life; if He brought me here, He will know how long I will be here," said one user. "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me," wrote another. There were even calls to create prayer chains: "We have a God who fulfills His promises. Let’s pray for everyone in a chain every day at 7 PM."
The message from @deimysespinosa is not isolated. It adds to other recent testimonials that have gained traction on social media. Recently, a Cuban father with I-220A shared his story of overcoming challenges in the United States, where he stated: “We have been paying taxes for three years, doing everything as it should be, and we want to have the paperwork.”
It also went viral the letter from a young woman to her mother, in which she expresses: “Here I am, enduring, mommy, with the hope of waking up one day to the best news in the world.”
The video arrives at a time of increasing uncertainty for migrants with I-220A. On July 4th, the United States Supreme Court authorized the deportation of several migrants, including two Cubans, to South Sudan, despite warnings that they could face torture or death.
Furthermore, immigration attorney Liudmila Marcelo has warned about a change in the immigration courts of Miami and Orlando, where an increasing number of judges are requiring migrants to appear in person and are dismissing asylum cases, which has resulted in immediate detentions.
"We need wisdom, strength, and a connection with God."
In her message, the young woman emphasizes that this is a time to strengthen faith and avoid impulsive decisions: “You are not in a position to go around doing whatever comes to your mind... Now more than ever, your position must be one of wisdom, understanding, and connection with God.”
Criticizes the panic generated by social media: “It's enough already with that fear, that uncertainty... Stop wasting your time on social media and connect with those who can solve your problem, and the problems of thousands and thousands of human beings who are here risking too much to now be left with absolutely nothing.”
"I think that if all the I-220A and I-220B forms and all the letters and numbers that exist and the ones they've invented... we united as one voice, and instead of wasting time gossiping about each other... praying for you and for everyone in a situation like yours, the process would take less time," he concludes.
Frequently Asked Questions about I-220A Immigration Status in the United States
What is the I-220A form and what is its importance for Cuban migrants in the U.S.?
The I-220A form is a parole order granted to Cuban migrants crossing the southern border of the United States. This document allows beneficiaries to live legally in the country while their immigration status is resolved, although it does not guarantee a defined immigration status or protection against deportation.
How are Cubans with I-220A facing the uncertainty regarding their immigration status?
Cuban nationals with I-220A are turning to online communities for emotional support and to share experiences. Many emphasize the importance of staying calm, having faith, and avoiding impulsive decisions amid uncertainty regarding their legal status. They are also encouraged to trust in fate and to seek advice from specialized attorneys before making any significant decisions.
What messages of hope are Cuban migrants sharing with I-220A on social media?
Several Cuban migrants have shared messages of hope on platforms like TikTok, urging others to maintain faith and unity. Testimonials from individuals who have managed to regularize their situation or who have achieved personal milestones, such as purchasing a home, are common and serve as inspiration for those still facing uncertainty.
What risks do Cuban migrants with I-220A face when making hasty decisions about their status?
Making impulsive decisions, such as self-deportation, can have serious consequences for migrants with an I-220A. Leaving the country without a valid permit can result in the loss of any opportunity to obtain residency or to return legally to the United States. It is advisable to seek legal counsel before taking any actions that could impact your immigration process.
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