Cubana announces her definitive return to Cuba: "The parole is over and I have nothing left to do here in the U.S."

A young Cuban returns to Cuba after the end of humanitarian parole in the U.S., expressing sadness and hope. Her testimony on TikTok reflects the migratory struggle of thousands of Cubans.

Cuban in the United StatesPhoto © TikTok / @yami_cubanita2

A young Cuban who emigrated to the United States under the humanitarian parole program publicly bid farewell to her followers on TikTok, announcing that she will be returning permanently to Cuba. Her video, posted on her account @yami_cubanita2, sparked a wave of reactions and comments on the platform.

“My people, I’m saying goodbye to TikTok. I won’t be making any more TikToks because my time here has come to an end. I’ve booked my ticket to Cuba; I’m leaving for good. It’s my last day at work,” she expressed with evident sadness. The young woman explained that, after the suspension of the parole, she has no work permit or legal options to stay in the country.

In the video description, the TikToker summarized her situation with a phrase that many associate with the migratory drama experienced by thousands of Cubans: “The sad story of the American dream.”

The testimony of @yami_cubanita2 has resonated deeply within the migrant community. Over a hundred users commented on the video, urging her not to give up. "Don't go, things can change," wrote one user. Others suggested alternatives such as informal work or waiting to take advantage of the Cuban Adjustment Act.

There were also warning messages. “If you leave now, you might not be able to come back,” said one follower. Meanwhile, others expressed empathy: “It’s hard with a job; imagine without permission or the possibility of doing anything legally,” reflected an internet user.

The situation has once again highlighted the uncertainty faced by thousands of Cubans following the temporary halt of the humanitarian parole. Many of them find themselves without documents, without jobs, and with an uncertain legal future, awaiting judicial decisions or changes in immigration policies.

Despite the pleas and advice, the young woman insists on her decision to return to the island. “We'll see how I do in Cuba. I used to do it already, I hope my clients from years ago come back to me,” she said. Her farewell has been interpreted as a blend of frustration, need, and hope to find her way again in her homeland.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Return of Cubans to the Island and Humanitarian Parole

Why did the young Cuban decide to return permanently to Cuba from the U.S.?

The young woman decided to return permanently to Cuba due to the suspension of humanitarian parole, which left her without a work permit or legal options to remain in the U.S. This situation led her to make the decision to return to her home country, despite the uncertainty about her future there.

What is humanitarian parole and why was it suspended?

The humanitarian parole is a program that allows certain individuals to enter the U.S. temporarily for urgent humanitarian reasons or significant public benefit. The suspension of parole has created uncertainty among Cuban migrants, leaving them without documents and, in many cases, without employment, which places them in a legally precarious situation.

What are the legal options for Cubans in the U.S. after the suspension of parole?

After the suspension of the parole, many Cubans in the U.S. are facing a lack of documents and employment. Some legal options include waiting to apply for the Cuban Adjustment Act, which allows Cubans to obtain permanent residency after one year and one day of entering the country. However, this option requires meeting certain formal and legal requirements.

What emotional impact does returning to Cuba have for migrants?

The return to Cuba, for many migrants, entails a mix of frustration, need, and hope. The young woman's testimony reflects a deep emotional impact, as she faces the separation from a life she tried to build in the U.S. and the uncertainty of reintegrating into the island, hoping to resume a life she left behind.

Filed under:

Izabela Pecherska

Editor at CiberCuba. Graduated in Journalism from the Rey Juan Carlos University of Madrid, Spain. Editor at El Mundo and PlayGround.