A Cuban woman in the United States has moved TikTok users with an emotional testimony about struggle, migration, and hope, as she demonstrates how she is rebuilding a mobile home from scratch to make it her home.
Under the username @my.hope2023, the woman shared images of the restoration process of her home: the disassembled floor, scattered wires and tools, unfinished walls, and newly built wooden stairs. But beyond the physical work, it was her message that resonated deeply.
In her post, she wrote that "not everyone starts from the top... sometimes one begins from the ground up, but with a heart full of dreams." She added that, although everything may seem formless right now, she is convinced that when things are done with love, effort, and dedication, the result will always be worthwhile. "Perhaps it wasn't the time for great beginnings, but it was the time to put our hearts into what we have," she stated.
The woman is shown wearing work clothes, alongside a little girl, as she cleans, measures, and unloads materials. "Here I go step by step, building my future and that of my family, because that's why I came to this country: to fight tirelessly and not to give up," she stated. She also affirmed, "Thanks to heaven, and like good Cubans, we know how to turn little into a lot, the old into something new, and adversity into opportunity."
Identifying as an undocumented migrant in the U.S., she shared: "Am I an immigrant? Yes. Do I still not have papers? Yes. But looking ahead, I continue to build my story, step by step, with faith, love, and purpose." For her, "a dream is not measured by papers, but by the strength of those who dare to make it a reality," and she made it clear that her story is just beginning.
In the comments, users expressed their support with messages like "Keep going, with God you can do everything" or "God bless you and keep moving forward," accompanied by emojis of hearts, praying hands, and smiling faces.
This video adds to a previous post by the same user, in which she shared her experience under the immigration process known as I-220A, which involves being under immigration supervision without legal status. She stated: “Going through immigration court didn't break me, having appointments every year hasn't broken me either, and it won't break me.” In that message, she spoke about her dream of someday receiving the letter that says “Welcome to USA” and putting a hand on her shoulder to tell herself: “Thank you for not giving up, thank you for working and studying tirelessly.”
The story of @my.hope2023 continues as a reflection of the challenges many migrants face in the United States, while also serving as a testimony to the faith, effort, and dignity with which they choose to confront them.
Frequently asked questions about the situation of Cuban migrants with I-220A in the U.S.
What is the I-220A form in the context of Cuban migration to the U.S.?
The I-220A form is an immigration document that allows Cubans to live under supervision in the U.S. without a defined legal status. This form has been a resource for many migrants arriving through the southern border who seek to regularize their situation while awaiting a resolution of their case. Despite the limitations and uncertainty, many have taken this opportunity to build a future in the United States.
How do Cuban migrants with I-220A cope with the lack of legal status in the U.S.?
Many Cuban migrants face the lack of legal status with perseverance, effort, and hope. Despite the challenges, they work to build a better future and keep their dreams alive. They support each other and share their stories on social media, seeking to inspire and receive support from others in similar situations. Resilience and faith are key elements in their daily struggle for a dignified life.
What challenges do Cuban migrants face when trying to regularize their status in the U.S.?
Cuban migrants face significant challenges such as legal uncertainty, fear of deportation, and a lack of guidance in the immigration process. These challenges are exacerbated by the need to fulfill annual appointments and court appearances for immigration. However, many remain optimistic, working hard, saving, and building a new life while waiting to resolve their legal status.
How do social networks influence the community of Cuban migrants with I-220A?
Social media plays a crucial role by providing a space to share experiences, receive support, and connect with others in similar situations. Platforms like TikTok have become forums where migrants can express their struggles, achievements, and aspirations, often generating solidarity and motivation within the community. Additionally, they serve as a means to highlight the realities and challenges faced by Cuban migrants in the U.S.
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