Cubans who arrived in the United States in the 1980s and have deportation orders in their history are being arrested by agents of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Many of these Cubans are currently at the Krome Detention Center in Miami-Dade, Florida, as reported by Cuban journalist and presenter Juan Manuel Cao on AméricaTeVe, during an interview with immigration lawyer Ángel Leal.
In the conversation, Cao revealed that several Cubans have been detained in Krome due to deportation processes pending for decades. Leal confirmed the information and warned about the severity of these cases, explaining that these individuals face serious risks if they are repatriated to Cuba.
"They are in danger because they have been living in the United States for many years and, depending on their employment here, their family members, the statements they have made to the press, and their political activism, they may be detained upon arriving in Cuba," explained the lawyer."
Leal emphasized that the deported Cubans would confront an unknown reality and possible violations of their human rights, including being subjected to interrogations to disclose details about their activities in the United States.
"All these people are valuable sources of information for the regime," he warned.
Additionally, deportation would result in the loss of Social Security, even though many of them have worked for decades in U.S. territory.
Why were some Cubans from the 80s unable to legalize their status in the U.S.?
The recent detention of Cubans with deportation orders from the 1980s has caused surprise on social media.
"It's absurd that they arrived in the 80s and still haven't legalized their status," commented an internet user. However, another person recalled that many of these migrants faced legal barriers since their arrival.
During the Mariel boatlift and other maritime journeys, numerous Cubans committed crimes in the United States, which prevented them from applying for permanent residency or citizenship. Immigration law stipulates that those with criminal records cannot regularize their status.
Additionally, for decades, the Cuban regime refused to accept certain deportees, leaving these individuals in a migratory limbo. They remained in the U.S. without the possibility of being expelled, but they could not legalize their status either.
Today, with the resumption of deportations to the island, these old orders are being carried out. After more than 40 years in the country, many could be repatriated to a Cuba they do not know. The story of these migrants reflects a human drama that remains relevant.
The United States does not follow up on deportation cases
The lawyer explained that once a person has been deported, the U.S. government does not continue with their cases.
"The authorities ensure that the immigrant's documents are in order for deportation, that they can board the plane to their country of origin, and the moment they set foot on Cuban soil, the United States closes that case," Leal said.
Once on the island, the deportees are at the mercy of the Cuban regime, facing not only the rupture with their life in the United States, but also potential reprisals, interrogations, and violations of their fundamental rights.
Without protection or oversight from U.S. authorities, their future is uncertain and, in many cases, highly dangerous.
This new wave of deportations revives a human drama for individuals who, despite having spent decades building their lives in the United States, now face the possibility of upheaval and the threat of political persecution in their homeland, a country they do not know.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Deportation of Cubans with Old Orders in the U.S.
Why are Cubans with deportation orders from the 1980s being arrested?
Cubans who arrived in the U.S. in the 1980s with pending deportation orders are being arrested by ICE. Many of these migrants faced legal barriers since their arrival, such as criminal records that prevented them from regularizing their status. Now, with deportations resuming, these old orders are being enforced.
What risks do Cubans face when deported to the island?
Deported Cubans returning to the island face the risk of being detained upon arrival, suffering reprisals for their political activism or statements in the press. They could face interrogations and violations of their human rights. Additionally, they will lose benefits such as Social Security that they have accumulated after decades of work in the United States.
What can Cubans in the U.S. do to protect themselves from deportation?
It is crucial for Cubans with pending deportation orders to update their immigration procedures and seek specialized legal advice. Consulting with an immigration attorney can help them understand their situation and explore legal options. Staying within the law and having all documents in order is vital to minimize risks.
How does the Cuban Adjustment Act affect Cubans in the U.S.?
The Cuban Adjustment Act allows for the application for permanent residency after one year and one day in the U.S. However, those with I-220B forms face uncertainties, as this document may indicate an active deportation order. The law is not always applicable to those with pending supervision orders.
How can Cubans protect their rights if ICE comes knocking?
Cubans in irregular situations have the right not to open the door or answer questions when ICE shows up at their home. They are not obligated to allow ICE agents to enter if they do not have a signed order from a judge. Agents must show any valid order under the door or through a window.
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