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Cuban in Tampa Faces Deportation Order: "I Came Here to Move Forward"

Tuesday, May 13, 2025 by Olivia Torres

In the United States, a Cuban named Orelvis has voiced his concern on social media after receiving a deportation notice. The situation was highlighted in a video shared by influencer Dairon Cano, where Orelvis appeals for support from the Cuban community in Tampa as he struggles to keep his food truck business afloat. "I'm feeling a bit worried, Dairon. Right now, I've got a deportation letter, and my customer base has dwindled, so I'm quite distressed," Orelvis explained, mentioning his recent appearance at his third immigration court hearing where he was informed of the order.

He continued, "The situation worries me a bit. I came to this country to move forward, with the desire to work and fight, and I'm feeling quite down," his emotions clearly visible in the video shared by Dairon, who emphasized in his post that this Cuban with I220-A status is "going through a tough and challenging time."

Call for Support from an Empty Food Truck

The video, filmed at his workplace, reveals a stark scene with no customers in sight. "I have the business, as you can see, few people are coming," Orelvis pointed out. He reiterated his goal of "moving forward" and consistently working. The influencer accompanying him highlights the absence of customers at the food stand, urging the community to rally: "A hardworking guy who's here to fight. Meanwhile, the criminals out there, stealing and mocking the police, aren't deported. Yet this Cuban here, who just wants to get ahead, is facing an empty lot."

"To everyone living in Tampa, all Cubans, please come here and support him. Your case, buddy, we'll take it to the end. You won't be deported," he added.

Massive Social Media Response

The video has garnered hundreds of comments and messages of support on TikTok. Many have pledged to visit the business and show their support by buying from him. Numerous users requested the exact location, with several indicating the food truck is at 1701 W Sling, Tampa FL. Comments like "Let's help him, Cubans in Tampa," "He's my friend, a great person," "I'll buy this weekend," and "The pizzas are amazing" reflect the wave of solidarity that has been generated. Cubans from other states also chimed in with encouraging messages and prayers.

Other Stories Highlighted by Dairon Cano

This isn't the first story Dairon Cano has brought to light. In March, he shared the experience of Gladys, a Cuban mother with I-220A status working in a food truck in Homestead. "Since I arrived in this country, I've been improving myself, working hard," she said in her testimony, which also went viral.

Days later, Cano featured his encounter with José, a homeless Cuban in Miami, to whom he gave $60 and offered ongoing support. "You have a friend here. You can count on me," he told José in that video.

The Increasingly Tense Immigration Context

Orelvis's story emerges amidst a climate of tightening immigration policies in the United States. During his first 100 days in office, President Donald Trump announced the deportation of over 65,000 undocumented immigrants. His administration has repeatedly linked immigration with crime, yet lacks concrete data to support these claims.

The new executive order, dubbed the “Return Home Project,” offers up to $1,000 and free flights to those who choose to self-deport. Those who don't comply risk immediate expulsion, imprisonment, fines, and even asset forfeiture.

The plan also includes a massive raid involving over 20,000 immigration agents deployed nationwide. Operations will target neighborhoods, workplaces, and transit areas, particularly in states like Florida, Texas, and California. Human rights organizations caution against the potential for arbitrary detentions, racial profiling, and traumatic impacts on thousands of immigrant families.

A Resounding Message

"All he does here is work, get up early, day, evening, and night," Dairon remarked in the video about Orelvis. "That's just not fair." The community's response has been emphatic: solidarity, visibility, and tangible support. Amid an increasingly uncertain immigration landscape, Orelvis's story humanizes a reality affecting countless individuals who only wish to work, stay strong, and build a better life.

FAQs on Orelvis's Deportation Case

What is the current status of Orelvis's deportation case?

Orelvis is facing a deportation order after attending his third immigration court hearing. He is seeking support from the community as he navigates this difficult situation.

How has the community responded to Orelvis's plea for help?

The community has responded with overwhelming support, expressing solidarity through comments, pledges to visit his food truck, and messages of encouragement on social media.

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