Celebrated Cuban author Leonardo Padura has spoken out against the Trump administration's decision to permanently revoke the humanitarian parole program, shedding light on its impact on those who arrived in the United States under this initiative. In a conversation with EFE news agency, Padura expressed concern over the mounting fear among thousands of Cuban immigrants, many of whom, he noted, "sold everything to make the journey."
The esteemed intellectual expressed sorrow for his fellow Cubans in the U.S., who entered the country with government-issued visas that are now being rescinded. "Many are living in fear," he emphasized.
Padura shared a personal story illustrating how current U.S. immigration policies have instilled fear in many Cubans about returning to the Island. He mentioned that his brother, a U.S. citizen residing in Miami, recently stopped visiting Cuba due to concerns about being barred from re-entry. "He missed my mother's birthday out of fear," Padura lamented.
Trump's Influence and Broader Global Challenges
According to Padura, the arrival of Trump in the White House acted as a catalyst for the current situation, although he acknowledged the existence of "many more challenging processes" worldwide. "What we're experiencing feels like a social dystopia," he declared.
Cuba's Ongoing Crisis: Blackouts and Mass Exodus
When discussing Cuba, Padura was unequivocally pessimistic. "It's a profound crisis on all fronts," he stated, referring to the worsening material conditions, frequent power outages, and the massive migration. "I don't know if I can fully grasp the current situation in Cuba," he admitted.
Padura criticized recent U.S. policies towards Cuba, including those enacted by both Joe Biden and Donald Trump. He pointed out that Trump's decision to re-list the Island among countries not cooperating in the fight against terrorism, along with corresponding sanctions, has deeply affected ordinary citizens.
Finally, he offered a stark reflection on the current state of the world, likening it to a "social dystopia" characterized by global conflicts, extreme digital surveillance, and a rollback of fundamental freedoms, particularly in the digital realm.
The Writer's Role and Upcoming Novel
While in Spain's capital for the Book Fair, Padura discussed his forthcoming novel, "Morir en la arena," set to release in September. The book will explore the "complex fate" of his generation in contemporary Cuba, featuring a character who chooses forgetfulness as a means of emotional survival.
In an era marked by war, surveillance, and exodus, Padura reaffirms his commitment as a writer: to voice what others cannot or dare not say. Even as the world increasingly resembles a dystopian novel, his critical voice continues to champion memory, dignity, and truth.
Understanding the Impact of U.S. Policies on Cuban Immigrants
What is the humanitarian parole program?
The humanitarian parole program was a U.S. immigration initiative allowing certain individuals to enter the United States temporarily due to urgent humanitarian reasons.
Why are Cuban immigrants fearful after the parole revocation?
Cuban immigrants are fearful because the revocation means their visas are being rescinded, which jeopardizes their legal status and future in the United States.
How have U.S. policies towards Cuba affected ordinary citizens?
U.S. policies, like re-listing Cuba among non-cooperating countries in anti-terrorism efforts, have resulted in sanctions that severely impact the daily lives of Cuban citizens.