A heartbreaking video shared by TikTok user Yilian Martínez has touched the most sensitive emotions of many people, especially within the migrant community. Through tears and a trembling voice, the Cuban woman recounted what she feels after having spent three years leaving her children in Cuba to emigrate to the United States.
“On a day like today, I left my country and said goodbye to my children with the greatest pain in the world. I am I220A, and today marks three years since I haven't been able to see or hug those children of mine,” Yilian expressed while lying in her bed, visibly affected. “Today is a very sad day for me; it's been three years since those children could hug their mother," she added in her video, where she acknowledged that there were many more people in the same situation. "It is very difficult to be apart for such a long time, especially when our children are young,” she continued.
Her testimony resonated with hundreds of users, who left comments filled with empathy, advice, and even criticism. Some deeply identified with her situation: “That's me; I haven't seen my children in three years either. I am also I220A. Stay strong, sister. God will help us.” Others shared similar stories of separation: “I spent five years without seeing my children. It's an indescribable pain, but God does not abandon us.”
However, some comments questioned her decision to emigrate without them. “I would never leave my children behind,” commented one user, to which Yilian responded: “Never say never. I used to say that, and one day I had to choose between having them or bringing them to exhaustive misery.”
The video has accumulated more than 1,800 likes on its profile @yilian8508 and has generated over 600 comments in less than 24 hours. Amidst words of encouragement and discussions about the decisions migrants make, one thing became clear: the sacrifice of leaving family behind to seek a better future is one of the most painful experiences faced by an emigrant.
"I wouldn't wish this feeling on anyone," Yilian added in the comments, expressing gratitude to those who sent her support to keep moving forward.
Frequently Asked Questions about Family Separation and the I-220A Status for Cubans in the United States
What is the I-220A immigration status and how does it affect Cubans in the United States?
The I-220A is a parole document that allows migrants to stay 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 deep emotional impact on emigrant Cubans, 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.
What challenges do Cubans with I-220A status face in the U.S.?
Cuban individuals with I-220A 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.
Why do Cuban mothers emigrate leaving their children on the island?
Cuban mothers emigrate in search of a better economic future for their children. The economic and social crisis in Cuba forces many to make the difficult decision to temporarily separate from their children in order to send them resources from abroad.
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