Maria Elvira's Determination: "I Won't Rest Until Cubans Get the Parole"

Republican Congresswoman Maria Elvira Salazar once again reached out to the thousands of Cubans holding I-220A immigration status, offering words of encouragement. "I won't rest until you get the parole that will allow you to benefit from the Cuban Adjustment Act," declared Salazar, who has become a staunch advocate for her fellow Cubans in Washington.

Salazar has been at the forefront of efforts to ensure that those granted this temporary stay permit— which does not provide a clear path to permanent residency— can receive humanitarian parole, a crucial step before applying for status adjustment. "We're talking about half a million Cubans, young people eager to start their lives here, work, and contribute to the American economy rather than depend on the government; I understand this well," emphasized the congresswoman. "Every day Congress is in session, I speak for you, the I-220A," she added.

The I-220A status has provided shelter to thousands of Cubans arriving in the United States in recent years but has raised legal uncertainty regarding their status. While it permits entry into the country, it does not enable them to apply for permanent residency through the Adjustment Act.

Salazar's unwavering dedication to this cause has drawn criticism from both inside and outside Miami. Following the appearance of a controversial billboard on the Palmetto Expressway labeling her a "traitor"— an initiative by the Miami-Dade Hispanic Caucus— she responded defiantly: "Those calling me a traitor should try doing what I'm doing, and I'm doing it wholeheartedly, even though this is the hardest job I've ever done for the least pay."

Conversely, the I-220A community expressed their gratitude by erecting six billboards in appreciation of her advocacy, reminding her she is not alone.

This week marked another success for Salazar with the release of Yadira Cantallops, a Cuban mother detained by ICE. "Another one freed!" she announced on her social media account, using the hashtag #I220A. "I won't forget those still detained or the thousands caught in legal limbo. My fight doesn't end until you all get the parole you deserve!" she added.

With support from her caucus and growing pressure from the Cuban community, Salazar remains hopeful that the Trump administration will acknowledge the need for an immigration solution for those with I-220A status. "With God's help and this Republican administration, you will get your parole, become American citizens, and one day return to help rebuild the country of your birth, American passport in hand," she concluded.