A Cuban impersonator of the late dictator Fidel Castro has gained viral attention on TikTok with a parody skit that sarcastically addresses the current deportation process of Cubans with I-220A permits from the United States back to the island. In the video, shared by user @eliecermonsibaez7, the actor is dressed in the iconic olive green uniform and military cap associated with Castro. He humorously tackles the question of what the country will do with Cubans being sent back under this immigration status.
“We will be tolerant. Who told them to emigrate? Who gave them the parole? It was all an imperialist lie. We're going to take measures. We are being strict. We will welcome them with all honors. The country is being stringent, and we will take action, returning them to the nation,” the impersonator jokes, eliciting laughter from his friends in the background.
This satirical sketch emerges during a tense period for thousands of Cubans facing deportation after losing their immigration cases in U.S. courts, despite entering with documents issued by the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), known as I-220A. The post has sparked a wide range of reactions, from laughter at the absurdity of the scene to serious concern and distress from those with family members at risk of repatriation.
Although humorous, the satire highlights the human drama experienced by hundreds of Cubans caught between two immigration systems and the tightening of U.S. policies for those arriving without approved humanitarian parole.
Key Questions About I-220A and Cuban Deportations
What is the I-220A permit?
The I-220A permit is a document issued by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) allowing certain immigrants to be temporarily released while their immigration proceedings are pending.
Why are Cubans with I-220A permits facing deportation?
Cubans with I-220A permits are facing deportation due to losing their immigration cases in U.S. courts, despite initially being allowed to enter the country under this permit.
How has the U.S. changed its policies regarding Cuban immigrants?
The U.S. has tightened its immigration policies, particularly for those arriving without an approved humanitarian parole, affecting many Cuban immigrants who entered under different circumstances.