A group of Cubans with I-220A has organized a peaceful protest scheduled for April 25th in Washington DC. The aim of this demonstration is to condemn the repression by the Cuban regime and demand the release of political prisoners on the island. This initiative is spearheaded by the Anti-Communist Movement, with spokesperson Víctor Castillo urging unity and courage among migrants to join the cause.
"The protest will be held at the Capitol, at 9:00 a.m., in area 10. We will be there with a group of Cubans holding I-220A and anyone else who wishes to join. In the afternoon, we will move towards the Cuban Embassy to demand freedom and respect for human rights on the island," Castillo stated during an interview with Javier Díaz on Univision.
The activist acknowledged that many migrants are hesitant to participate due to fears of arrest or deportation, given their immigration status. However, he encouraged them to overcome these fears. "This country opens its doors to us, and we must fight first and foremost for the freedom of Cuba and its political prisoners. Everything will work out, and you will see that we will secure legal immigration status in the United States," Castillo said.
Castillo also mentioned receiving support from Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar and other Cuban-American legislators.
Controversy on Social Media
The announcement has sparked a wide range of reactions on social media, both supportive and critical. While some praise the initiative and commend the activism on American soil, others question the legitimacy of the protest and the immigration status of its participants.
"Great job by all the I-220A holders. Let's all unite!" expressed one supportive user. In contrast, another commented, "They don't protest in Cuba but do here... they should all be deported."
Other users warned about potential legal or immigration repercussions for protesting. "They should be careful; they could be detained right there."
Meanwhile, a Cuban woman remarked, "They can't do that; they don't have legal status to be disrupting order. This is why the current administration is deporting those who are unruly."
The organizers clarify that the protest is not about seeking immediate immigration benefits but rather about highlighting the human rights crisis in Cuba and demanding an end to the dictatorship. For them, this struggle goes beyond borders and is part of a broader fight for freedom and democracy. "I urge all Cubans with I-220A to join the fight. We are not alone," Castillo emphasized.
Immigration Policy Under Trump and the Detention of Cubans with I-220A
Recently, the immigration status of Cubans with the I-220A form has gained attention both in Congress and within the Cuban community in Florida. On March 29, 2025, news broke about the release of Laura de la Caridad González Sánchez, a 26-year-old Cuban woman detained by ICE during a routine appointment in Miramar, Florida.
Her arrest triggered a strong community response and the direct intervention of Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar, who facilitated her release, highlighting that Laura had a pending asylum case and posed no threat to society. Salazar also urged immigration authorities to refrain from detaining Cubans with I-220A who have no criminal records.
On April 17, 2025, Congressman Mario Díaz-Balart confirmed ongoing discussions with the Trump administration to create a legal pathway for I-220A holders to obtain regular immigration status. This announcement came amid increasing mobilization of Cuban migrants in Washington D.C., coinciding with the first 100 days of Trump's second term.
Díaz-Balart emphasized that this situation affects thousands of Cubans released under supervision without a deportation date, leaving them in legal limbo without work permits or clear options for immigration adjustments. Additionally, the congressman reiterated his support for policies that exert pressure on the Cuban regime, including restrictions on remittances and travel to the island.
These political maneuvers reveal a growing focus from Congress on the situation of Cubans with I-220A, while uncertainty persists about the direction of U.S. immigration policy under the new Republican administration.
FAQs About Cubans with I-220A Protesting in Washington DC
What is the purpose of the protest organized by Cubans with I-220A?
The protest aims to condemn the Cuban regime's repression and demand the release of political prisoners on the island.
Who supports the protest?
The protest has received support from Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar and other Cuban-American legislators.
What are the concerns of participants regarding this protest?
Participants are concerned about potential arrest or deportation due to their immigration status.
What recent actions have been taken regarding the immigration status of Cubans with I-220A?
Congressman Mario Díaz-Balart is in discussions with the Trump administration to establish a legal pathway for I-220A holders to obtain regular immigration status.