A group of Cubans with I-220A called for a peaceful demonstration on April 25 in Washington DC, with the aim of denouncing the regime's repression and demanding the freedom of political prisoners on the island.
The initiative comes from the Anticommunist Movement. Its spokesperson, Víctor Castillo, called for unity and encouraged overcoming fear so that more migrants can participate.
“The demonstration will take place at the Capitol, at 9:00 a.m., in area 10. A group of Cubans with I-220A will be there, along with anyone else who joins us. In the afternoon, we will mobilize towards the Cuban Embassy to demand freedom and respect for human rights on the island,” declared Castillo in an interview with Javier Díaz on Univisión.
The activist acknowledged that many migrants are afraid to participate due to the risk of being detained or deported, given their immigration status. However, he urged them to overcome those fears.
“This country opens its doors to us, and we must first fight for the freedom of Cuba and for the political prisoners. Everything will be resolved, and you will see that we will have legal immigration status in the United States,” he said.
Castillo also assured that they have the support of Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar and other Cuban-American lawmakers.
Divided opinions on social media
The call has generated a strong wave of reactions on social media, both in support and in opposition. While some celebrate the initiative and applaud the activism on American soil, others criticize the legitimacy of the protest and question the immigration status of the participants.
"Very good for all the I-220A. All united!" expressed one of the users supporting the initiative. "They don’t protest in Cuba and here they do... deport them all," wrote another person with an opposing view.
Other users warn about potential legal or immigration consequences for protesting. "Be careful, they can detain you right there."
For her part, a Cuban woman commented: “They can't do that; they don't have legal status to be upsetting the order. This is why the current administration is deporting those who are unruly.”
The organizers assert that this mobilization does not seek immediate immigration benefits, but rather aims to highlight the plight of human rights in Cuba and demand an end to the dictatorship. For them, the struggle transcends borders and is part of a broader cause for freedom and democracy.
“I ask all Cuban I-220A holders to unite in the struggle. We are not alone,” emphasized Castillo.
Trump's immigration policy and the detention of Cubans with I-220A
In recent weeks, the debate regarding the immigration status of Cubans with Form I-220A has gained significance both in the United States Congress and among the Cuban community in Florida.
On March 29, 2025, the release of Laura de la Caridad González Sánchez was announced, a 26-year-old Cuban woman who had been arrested by ICE during a routine appointment in Miramar, Florida.
Her detention sparked a strong community response and the direct intervention of Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar, who worked to secure her release by emphasizing that Laura had a pending asylum case and posed no threat to society.
Salazar also urged immigration authorities to avoid the detention of Cubans with I-220A who do not have a criminal record.
On April 17, 2025, Congressman Mario Díaz-Balart confirmed that he is in talks with the administration of Donald Trump to promote a legal pathway that allows holders of I-220A to obtain regular immigration status.
These statements came amid a growing mobilization of Cuban migrants in Washington D.C., coinciding with the first 100 days of Trump's second term.
Díaz-Balart noted that this situation affects thousands of Cubans who were released under supervision without a deportation date, leaving them in a legal limbo, without work permits or clear options for immigration adjustment.
Additionally, the congressman reiterated his support for pressure policies against the Cuban regime, including restrictions on remittances and travel to the island.
These political actions demonstrate a growing focus from Congress on the situation of Cubans with I-220A, while uncertainty remains regarding the direction of immigration policy in the United States under the new Republican administration.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Demonstration of Cubans with I-220A in Washington DC
What is the purpose of the demonstration of Cubans with I-220A in Washington DC?
The demonstration, organized by a group of Cubans with I-220A, aims to denounce the repression of the Cuban regime and demand the release of political prisoners. It will take place on April 25 at the Capitol and will then move to the Cuban Embassy to call for respect for human rights on the island.
What is the I-220A form and what is its importance for Cuban migrants?
The I-220A is a conditional parole order granted to migrants who have been released under the supervision of ICE without a clear deportation date. This document does not guarantee immigration status, leaving thousands of Cubans in a legal limbo in the United States.
What political support do Cubans with I-220A have in their pursuit of immigration regularization?
Cuban nationals with I-220A have the support of Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar and other Cuban-American legislators. Salazar has announced a bill to grant them permanent legal status and is in discussions with the Department of Homeland Security to protect their rights.
What are the concerns of Cubans with I-220A regarding the manifestation?
The main fear of Cubans with I-220A is the risk of being detained or deported due to their immigration status. However, the organizers of the demonstration insist that their struggle is for the freedom of Cuba and that they trust their immigration situation in the United States will be resolved.
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