A Cuban discovered an old raft on a beach, with all its belongings still inside, despite the claim that the vessel had been abandoned for years after a failed attempt to leave the country.
The video of the discovery, shared on TikTok by the user @cubanos_tv, shows the precarious boat stranded on the shore. Surprised by the state of preservation, the man recording comments with a mix of disbelief and nostalgia: “It has clothes, backpacks, and even food. Four batteries and it still has the oil tank.”
The discovery of the raft provoked mixed reactions. “Who could have been the one who came in this?” the Cuban wonders aloud while examining the interior of the vessel, where jerry cans, backpacks, ropes, and other personal belongings are observed.
But one of the most significant comments, filled with social critique, was when a follower reflected: “And today they turn on each other, debating about the I-220A or the parole…,” alluding to the divisions that have emerged among Cuban migrants in the United States due to the different avenues of entry and immigration regularization.
The video, which has generated thousands of views and comments, evokes the harshness of the Cuban exodus by sea, a persistent phenomenon in the country's recent history. At the same time, it serves as a tangible testament to the risks faced by those who choose to embark on the sea in search of freedom and opportunities.
So far, there is no precise information about the exact date or location where the raft was found, but the discovery has sparked the interest of many internet users, especially in the Cuban community both on the island and abroad.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cuban Emigration and Migration Challenges in the U.S.
What was found in the raft discovered in the U.S.?
The raft found contained clothing, backpacks, food, batteries, and a tank of oil. This discovery, shared on TikTok, has evoked the harshness of the Cuban exodus by sea and the risks faced by those seeking new opportunities outside of Cuba.
What do the terms I-220A and parole mean in the context of Cuban immigration?
The I-220A status refers to a immigration status under supervision while the immigration process is being resolved. Parole is a temporary permit to remain in the U.S. while the immigration regularization is being processed. Both terms have generated divisions among Cuban migrants due to the different pathways for entry and regularization.
How is Cuban ingenuity reflected in the construction of rafts?
The Cuban ingenuity is reflected in the construction of rafts using recycled materials, such as metal tanks and car parts. These "tankers" are examples of the creativity and determination of those seeking to escape the difficult situation in Cuba.
Why has the discovery of the raft generated critical and nostalgic reactions?
The discovery of the raft not only evokes the harshness of the Cuban exodus but also reflects the current divisions among Cuban migrants in the U.S. The critical reactions focus on the differences between those who arrive under various immigration statuses, while nostalgia arises from the memory of the sacrifices involved in the sea journey.
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