There are dreams that feel so real that one wakes up with their heart in their throat. This happened to a young Cuban woman who, in a recent dream, was embracing her mother in Cuba after years of not seeing her. But when she opened her eyes, everything vanished. Reality hit her: she is far from her loved ones and trapped in the uncertainty of being I220-A in the United States.
With the excitement of her story shared by so many others and a message of hope, @laflaki1304, known on TikTok as La Cubanita Soñadora, addressed those who find themselves in the same situation: "Only we know and understand everything we have been through." In her video, which has already garnered more than 1500 likes and 190 comments, she shared that peculiar dream where she was not only able to embrace her mother but also bring gifts to her entire family. Although they were not made of gold, but of surgical steel, everyone was happy, she said amidst laughter and emotion.
The creator, who crossed several countries alone to reach the U.S., stated that she is not willing to return to Cuba, but the pain of distance weighs heavily on her. “Of course I miss them because I am a daughter, a good sister, a good granddaughter… If you don’t miss your family, it’s because you have no feelings,” she expressed firmly, making it clear that her sacrifice is for her loved ones and that she has not lost faith in a better future: “Something good is going to happen in January.”
The story resonated with many. Hundreds of users with the same immigration status shared how they also dream of returning to Cuba, even if only in their dreams. "I dreamed that I was hugging my grandmother who passed away 5 months ago"; "Literally, can you imagine my kids are in Cuba"; "I haven't seen my family in 8 years," several users recounted. Others, however, reminded them of the sensitivity of such statements: "That's why they don’t want to give us papers, because we talk about going back to Cuba," someone commented, while another pointed out: "I prefer papers over living in a dictatorship. Blessings."
Between the pain of separation and hope for better times, @laflaki1304 ended her video with a phrase that leaves a door open to faith: "Let's not lose hope. Something good is going to happen in January."
Frequently asked questions about family separation and the I220-A status of Cubans in the U.S.
What is immigration status I220-A and how does it affect Cubans in the United States?
The I220-A is a parole document that allows immigrants to remain in the United States while their immigration status is being determined. For many Cubans, it represents a legal limbo, as it does not permit them to obtain permanent residency or return to Cuba without risks, complicating their situation and that of their families.
How does family separation emotionally impact Cubans in the U.S.?
Family separation has a profound emotional impact on Cuban emigrants, who often suffer from nostalgia, sadness, and anxiety. Holidays and important family moments intensify these feelings by reminding them of the absence of their loved ones.
Why do some Cubans have nightmares about being trapped in Cuba?
The fear of being trapped in Cuba is a common nightmare among Cubans who still do not have legal residency in the United States. This fear reflects the uncertainty and stress they feel about their immigration situation, as returning to Cuba could mean not being able to return to the United States due to legal restrictions.
What challenges do Cubans with I220-A status face in the United States?
Cubans with I220-A face multiple challenges, such as legal uncertainty, lack of access to permanent residency, and the constant fear of deportation. Additionally, they must adapt to the economic and cultural differences in the United States, which can be a complex and stressful process.
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