Cuban immigrants who arrived legally in the United States through the CBP One program are pleading with the government not to revoke their work permits, a decision that would leave them without legal means to support themselves or clear options to regularize their immigration status.
In a video published by journalist Mario J. Pentón, heartfelt testimonies from Cubans can be heard, pleading for a solution and describing the devastating impact that this measure from the Trump administration would have on their families.
They are honorable people who have lost everything in pursuit of the American Dream, yet they maintain their belief that the United States is the place to restart their lives, away from the repression and precariousness of the communist regime.
The affected individuals entered U.S. territory with an appointment approved by the CBP One program, one of the legal pathways established by Joe Biden to address the migration crisis in 2023. However, the government of Donald Trump has revoked their work permits as a way to pressure them into leaving the country.
Pentón reported that there is an organization preparing a lawsuit against the federal government to revoke the benefits of the CBP One program, but the court solution may take time to arrive. Immigration attorney Ismael Labrador emphasized that this is "an extremely complex situation."
"The work permit was the opportunity for these migrants to stay in the country while applying for political asylum. Now, if they choose to continue working without authorization, they risk losing any chance to regularize their status," he explained.
The lawyer emphasized that these migrants have not committed any crimes but their only legal option was, in fact, the asylum process. The cancellation of the work permit not only jeopardizes their livelihood but also their future in the United States.
The work permits granted by the CBP One program will end this Wednesday, May 14. In the meantime, the testimonies collected by Pentón reflect distress, uncertainty, and a desperate plea to the U.S. government to listen to their voices and grant them what many already consider "a miracle".
Frequently Asked Questions about the Revocation of Work Permits for Cubans in the U.S. Under the CBP One Program
Why are the work permits of Cubans who entered the U.S. with CBP One being revoked?
The administration of Donald Trump has decided to revoke these permits as part of a strategy to tighten immigration policies and pressure migrants to leave the country. This revocation affects those who entered through the CBP One program, created during Joe Biden's administration to facilitate legal entry across the southern border.
What can Cubans affected by the revocation of work permits do?
Affected Cubans should seek immediate legal advice to assess their legal options, such as applying for political asylum or taking advantage of the Cuban Adjustment Act. Working without a valid permit could negatively impact any future immigration process, so it is crucial to act promptly and responsibly in immigration matters.
What are the consequences of working without a valid permit in the U.S.?
Working without a valid permit can negatively impact future immigration processes, including the possibility of applying for a status adjustment or political asylum. Additionally, it could lead to legal proceedings and penalties, increasing the risk of deportation.
How can Cubans prove that their work permit is still valid?
Cubans can check the status of their I-94 in the USCIS online system. If their I-94 is active and they have not received an official notice of revocation of their work permit, their authorization remains valid. It is important to stay informed and in contact with expert immigration attorneys.
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