Heydi Sánchez, a Cuban mother deported from the United States and separated from her infant and husband, has released a video message to update the public about her current predicament on the island. In her statement, Heydi clarified that while her family reunification request has been approved, she still lacks a visa and has not initiated formal procedures. This approval is merely the first step in what promises to be a lengthy process.
"Now we must follow the entire procedure, which is extensive. I need an appointment at the Cuban embassy, followed by obtaining migration waivers among many other tasks," she elaborated. "I remain in Cuba, waiting for progress," she emphasized.
Heydi expressed gratitude, particularly towards Congresswoman Kathy Castor and the law firm of Claudia Cañizares, who have been instrumental in supporting her case. She urged the public to continue sharing her story to expedite the process, allowing her to reunite soon with her daughter and husband, which is the family's greatest hope amidst this challenging separation.
"Every day that passes, my husband and I say: one day less, another day conquered. We keep trying, knocking on doors to assist us in reuniting," she concluded.
The media has closely followed Heydi's case. She was deported to Cuba on April 24 after being detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) during an immigration appointment, leaving behind her one-and-a-half-year-old daughter and husband, Carlos Yuniel Valle, who remains in the U.S. caring for their child.
Last Monday, Carlos attended another immigration appointment in Tampa, where he received the much-anticipated news: "They accepted Heydi's claim, thank God," he expressed emotionally.
Immigration lawyer Claudia Cañizares mentioned that while the approval of family reunification is promising, it does not guarantee an immediate resolution. Heydi must complete a consular process that involves submitting documents and attending interviews at the U.S. embassy in Havana. Additionally, due to her illegal border crossing in 2019, she will need to secure two migration waivers, a process that could take years if not expedited.
The family has gained significant political support from Congresswoman Kathy Castor, who has spotlighted the case and pushed for faster proceedings. However, the journey is still fraught with uncertainties, especially given recent U.S. government restrictions on visa issuance to Cuban citizens, mainly in categories like tourism and study, sparking concerns about potential impacts on immigrant visas like Heydi's.
"Our daughter is experiencing the toughest part," Carlos Yuniel Valle shared in an interview with Telemundo. Heydi was in the U.S. under migratory parole (I-220B) but with a previous deportation order. She and her family continue to strive for reunification, hopeful that political support, legal aid, and public visibility will hasten the process, allowing them to be together again soon.
Common Questions about Cuban Deportation Cases
What steps are involved in the family reunification process for deported individuals?
The process typically involves obtaining an appointment at the embassy, securing migration waivers, and completing interviews and documentation submissions. It can be lengthy and complex.
How long does it usually take to obtain migration waivers?
Obtaining migration waivers can take several years unless expedited. Each case varies depending on individual circumstances and legal support.
What role do political figures play in immigration cases like Heydi's?
Political figures can raise awareness and apply pressure to expedite processes, helping to bring public attention and potentially influence the speed of legal proceedings.