Based in Miami, Cuban broadcaster Alejandro Quintana has touched hearts with an emotional video where he reads an open letter directed at Cuban migrants who arrived in the United States and were released under the I-220A form. "This letter is a call for unity among our people. It seeks not to blame but to raise awareness," Quintana begins in his widely shared TikTok post, which has sparked a wave of solidarity among hundreds of affected Cuban migrants.
"Today, I want to speak to you from the heart, not as an influencer or a broadcaster. I want to speak as a Cuban, as one of the thousands who know what it feels like to have a heart torn between two shores," he adds, in an emotionally charged tone that resonates with those facing immigration uncertainty in the U.S.
A Community Divided
Quintana laments the division within the Cuban community in the United States, a rift between those who received parole and those who did not. "One part of the community has settled, moved forward, and taken root, while the other remains in limbo, waiting for justice, hoping for a law that seems to turn a blind eye," he states.
The young broadcaster also urges unity among legal professionals advising migrants, criticizing the conflicts among lawyers, notaries, and paralegals. "What good is having the truth if we use it to divide ourselves further?" he questions. "This letter is not just a call; it's a cry. A plea for those in power to use their knowledge to unite, not to compete. A cry to those with I-220A: you are not alone."
Impact and Reactions
Quintana's message has been widely shared and echoed in comments filled with gratitude, solidarity, and hope from other Cubans in similar situations. Many have identified with his words and shared their own experiences. "We just want to be legalized. I pray to God for that day. Before leaving Cuba, I promised my three-year-old daughter I would bring her to freedom... she's six now, and I still can't tell her: you are free," wrote one visibly moved user.
"Thank you for your beautiful words, my brother," commented another follower. "We've been through so much, suffered so much. But God is with us," added another. "Thank you for speaking from the soul. God bless you. Never stop fighting for a dream," wrote another. "Your words are filled with feelings for us Cubans," expressed @keniamaqueiro. Other comments highlight phrases like: "so much truth," "you made me cry," "blessings," "beautiful words," "thank you for remembering us."
Legal Implications and Hope
Quintana's letter comes shortly after a significant decision by the U.S. Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA). On May 15, in the Matter of Q. Li case, the BIA affirmed that migrants who entered the country without authorization should have been released under parole status. Although the case involved a Chinese national, its implications have sparked debate among jurists about potential applications to similar cases, such as the thousands of Cubans released under the I-220A form.
This ruling opens the possibility for some migrants to argue that they are not subject to the restrictions of section 235(b) of the Immigration Act and could therefore seek benefits like bond hearings or status adjustments. While the decision does not automatically grant benefits to Cubans with I-220A, it has reignited efforts among organizations, activists, and attorneys who strive for legal solutions for this group, estimated to number over 400,000 individuals.
A Recognized Voice in the Cuban Community
Alejandro Quintana, originally from Pinar del Río, became known as a host of youth programs on Cuban television, such as "Das Más" and "Tengo algo que decirte." In 2022, he emigrated to the United States after a journey from Nicaragua to the southern border, an experience he shared on social media, asserting, "I am one more of this massive exodus with no remedy and no options."
Since then, he has established himself as a recognized voice on social media, where he shares reflections, testimonials, and emotive posts dedicated to various realities of the Cuban exile. One of his earlier letters dedicated to elderly immigrants went viral, garnering thousands of comments and views.
In this latest message to Cubans with I-220A, Quintana has reinforced his commitment to the community: highlighting emotions, fostering unity through words, and reminding everyone that dignity is non-negotiable. "When a Cuban suffers, all of Cuba suffers. And when half a million wait, the silence of others also hurts," he concludes in his latest video that continues to touch hearts online.
Questions About Cuban Migrants and I-220A
What is the I-220A form for Cuban migrants?
The I-220A form is used to release Cuban migrants who have entered the United States without proper documentation, allowing them to remain in the country while their immigration status is determined.
How does the Matter of Q. Li case affect Cuban migrants with I-220A?
The Matter of Q. Li case sets a precedent that could allow Cuban migrants with I-220A to argue they should have been released under parole status, potentially enabling them to seek benefits like bond hearings or status adjustments.