A 98-year-old woman of Cuban origin, who has been living in the United States for several decades, has never wanted to regularize her status of her own accord.
This implies that, amid the complex immigration situation facing the country, the grandmother is, in practice, undocumented, as reported by the journalist from Univisión, Javier Díaz, who omitted the identity of the nonagenarian for obvious reasons. He also did not disclose the city or state in which she resides.
According to the communicator, the Cuban woman decided not to take advantage of the Cuban Adjustment Act or to apply for permanent residency because she emigrated "with the intention of returning to her country when Cuba is free."
However, what seemed to be a temporary wait ended up lasting for decades.
Unfortunately, today his situation is not only unusual but also potentially risky given the new circumstances in the country.
The journalist described the case as incredible and unique; a story that, in his opinion, inspires with its “feelings of love for the homeland and patriotism.”
However, in the comments section of his post, opinions were divided.
Criticism, doubts, and concern: This is how Cubans reacted to the story
Far from generating a consensus, the story of the elderly woman sparked extensive debate on social media, especially on Instagram and Facebook, where it was shared by the journalist himself.
While some recognized the gesture as a sign of loyalty to the homeland, the majority of comments were critical, noting recklessness, naivety, or even an unrealistic view of exile.
"Excuse me, but I believe that was a complete lack of awareness on their part," wrote a user, reflecting a common sentiment.
Another commented: “I wouldn’t call it principles, it’s a lack of cunning.”
Doubts about how he could live without papers for so long were also echoed: “How did he work? Does he have a license? Health insurance? How does he survive without documents?”, asked an internet user, a question that was repeated in numerous messages.
Some have described the decision as irresponsible, especially in a country with a system that requires legality to access basic services.
Others point out that many Cubans maintained a similar attitude in the early years, until they realized that the situation would take a long time to resolve. Some did wait until the end, but they haven't lived like the elderly woman in this story, who is 98 years old.
"Lots of love for the homeland, so what did he come for then?" someone sarcastically remarked.
Concerns were also raised about the consequences that the elderly woman might face after her story became public.
"Watch out for ICE, they don't believe in anything," someone declared.
Several Cubans agreed that the story, rather than being inspiring, is sad and even frustrating.
"It breaks my heart to think that she could end her days in such an uncertain situation," commented a user.
Another, without losing the acerbic humor, wrote: “If they're deporting a 98-year-old woman, the world is screwed.”
Although there were some messages of support or empathy, such as "God bless her and may she not be deported," or "She is a true patriot," these were the minority. The majority of users tended to criticize the lack of legal foresight, even among those who expressed a desire to return to a free Cuba.
“I also want to return to my country when I am free, but in the meantime, I have to be well here. One thing has nothing to do with the other.”, stated a user.
Another commented with resignation: "Poor grandmother, what she hopes for from Cuba she will no longer see in her lifetime."
In summary, the story has triggered a collective reflection on the dilemmas of exile: between the emotional attachment to the island and the necessity of building a stable life away from it, even if it involves difficult decisions.
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