The Cuban Karina Argos Viera surprised many of her followers by revealing in a video posted on TikTok that she had decided to return to Cuba after four years living in the United States under the I-220A immigration status.
"After four years living in the United States, this is the million-dollar question. Many ask me why I did it, if I'm crazy or if I gave up. I didn't give up; I simply made a decision for my peace," said the young woman in the video, which has gone viral among Cubans inside and outside the island.
Argos explained that his return occurred after an appointment with immigration authorities (ICE) on September 18, where he experienced what he described as "the two worst hours" of his life in the United States.
"They put me in a room and left me there for two hours. They didn't do anything to me, but the terror experienced inside there is something I wouldn't wish on anyone," he recounted.
The young woman expressed feeling afraid due to the recent arrests of migrants with pending cases and stated that she would rather "live peacefully" with her family in Cuba than face the possibility of deportation from a detention center.
"I made the decision to return to my country, to my home, where my family is. Life is only one, and what is meant for you, no matter how far you go, will still be yours. I asked God to do His will and not mine," Argos expressed, visibly emotional.
The Cuban rejected the criticism she has received for her decision and defended her right to choose what she considers best for her well-being. "I did not allow myself to be defeated. As long as I have life and health, no one has defeated me. I do not live to please the world, but to be true to myself," she stated.
In her final message, the young woman lamented the tendency of many Cubans to judge others' decisions. "Cubans have normalized criticism. They criticize whether you leave, stay, or return. Let others live in peace. Everyone should do what makes them happy," she concluded.
Filed under: