Two Cuban migrants with an I-220A form reported that their appointment with the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Miramar, Florida, went without incidents or detentions. "Everything went well, fortunately," said the interviewed woman, alongside her partner, who also stated that "everything was perfect."
Both urged other Cubans in similar situations not to be afraid. "Come to your regular appointment and move forward," the man stated. The woman added that they already have a new date assigned for next year. "And with God leading the way," she affirmed.
The testimony was shared on social media by the Cuban influencer Dairon Cano, who interviewed them after they left the ICE center. According to what they shared, none of those present that day were detained. Both expressed gratitude for the opportunity to be in the United States and mentioned that they are leading working lives: he as a manager at FedEx and she as an employee at BJ's.
“Thank you for everything you do for us,” they said to Dairon, who emphasized that these are honest and hardworking Cubans who “deserve to live in American land.”
An encouraging testimony amid uncertainty
The video has sparked a wave of positive comments on social media. Many users expressed their gratitude for the sharing of such experiences, which contrast with recent cases of detentions of Cuban migrants during immigration appointments or court hearings, even without criminal records.
Among them, the arrests of Denis Durán Águila and Elmer Sánchez López in Miami stand out, documented in a viral video where their mother knelt pleading with the agents not to take her son, and Orlando Delgado's, arrested after attending his appointment in Broward despite having an asylum request pending due to “credible fear.”
Experts in immigration and religious leaders such as the Archbishop of Miami, Thomas Wenski, have warned about the fragility of the I-220A status and condemned the widespread criminalization of workers and individuals without a criminal record. In a recent statement, Wenski criticized the treatment of migrants who are simply seeking to regularize their situation.
The I-220A form, provided to tens of thousands of Cubans after entering through the southern border, allows for their release on parole while their process is underway, but it does not grant legal status or provide guarantees against deportation.
In many cases, judges have rejected its use for applying to the Cuban Adjustment Act, leaving thousands in a state of uncertainty. Furthermore, the recent approval of new immigration fees under the Trump administration has significantly increased the costs of the procedures, making it even more difficult for migrants to secure legal defense.
In this scenario, other similar testimonies have also been shared on social media by Cubans attending their appointments with ICE or in court and manage to leave without incidents, although the widespread fear remains.
Testimonies like that of this couple in Miramar become messages of reassurance for many. “Do not be afraid,” they insisted, as many remember that “doing things right” can make a difference.
Frequently Asked Questions about ICE Appointments for Cubans with I-220A
How was the experience of the Cuban couple on their date with ICE in Miramar?
The Cuban couple had an appointment with ICE in Miramar that passed without incidents or detentions. Both migrants with form I-220A reported that the experience was positive and encouraged other Cubans in similar situations not to fear attending their appointments. They were given a new date for next year, and expressed their gratitude for being able to be in the United States.
What is the I-220A form, and what does it mean for Cubans?
The I-220A form is a "Notice of Release on Recognizance" that allows individuals to be released from federal custody under certain conditions. It does not grant legal status or immigration benefits, leaving beneficiaries in a state of legal uncertainty. Cubans with I-220A are not considered "inspected and admitted," which impacts their eligibility to adjust their status under the Cuban Adjustment Act.
Why is it important to attend appointments with ICE, even when feeling afraid?
It is crucial to attend scheduled appointments with ICE to avoid legal complications. Despite the fear and uncertainty faced by Cuban migrants with I-220A, attending the appointments demonstrates compliance with the conditions of the form and can be a positive factor in their immigration processes. Testimonials from other migrants who have left without incidents can provide hope and motivation to show up.
How does the current immigration policy affect Cubans with I-220A?
The current immigration policy under the Trump administration has toughened the conditions for migrants with I-220A. Detentions and raids have increased, even during scheduled appointments with ICE, creating widespread fear among Cuban individuals in this situation. The lack of stable legal status and the new immigration fees further complicate the legal defense for these migrants.
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