A gathering of Cubans holding I-220A forms took place on Friday in front of the Capitol in Washington, D.C., as they urged the U.S. Congress to establish a legal pathway for them to regularize their immigration status and avoid potential deportation back to Cuba. During their protest, they condemned the oppressive measures of the Cuban regime, calling for the release of political prisoners on the island.
The demonstrators, traveling from cities like Miami, Houston, and Kentucky, represent over 300,000 Cubans who currently find themselves in a legal limbo after entering the country without formal entry permits. The I-220A form, known as an "order of release on recognizance," is a document issued by U.S. immigration authorities to certain migrants, allowing them to stay in the country while their immigration status is resolved.
However, in 2023, the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) ruled that the I-220A does not constitute valid "parole," preventing its holders from benefiting from the Cuban Adjustment Act, traditionally a route to obtaining permanent residency in the United States.
Republican Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar from Florida expressed her support for the group. "I will not give up until you have the parole that allows you to benefit from the Cuban Adjustment Act," she affirmed in a video message sent to the protesters. "You are educated individuals eager to contribute to this country, and the Trump administration will understand this," she added.
The protest at the Capitol and the Cuban Embassy in Washington was part of a series of actions initiated in recent months by Cubans with I-220A to raise awareness of their plight and push for a legislative solution. The call to action was organized by the Anti-Communist Movement, with spokesperson Víctor Castillo urging unity and encouraging many Cubans to overcome the fear of detention or deportation due to their immigration status.
"This country has opened its doors to us, and we must first and foremost fight for Cuba's freedom and the freedom of political prisoners," Castillo declared. "Everything will be resolved, and you will see that we will obtain legal immigration status in the United States," the activist added.
Understanding the I-220A and Its Impact on Cuban Migrants
What is the I-220A form?
The I-220A form, or "order of release on recognizance," is a document issued by U.S. immigration authorities to certain migrants, allowing them to remain in the U.S. while their immigration status is being resolved.
Why is the I-220A form not considered valid parole?
In 2023, the Board of Immigration Appeals determined that the I-220A does not meet the criteria for valid "parole," which affects the ability of its holders to apply for the Cuban Adjustment Act and obtain permanent residency.
What is the Cuban Adjustment Act?
The Cuban Adjustment Act is a U.S. law that allows Cuban nationals to apply for permanent residency one year after being admitted or paroled into the United States.