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Cuban Mother with I-220B Fears Deportation with Her Two-Month-Old Baby

Wednesday, June 18, 2025 by Henry Cruz

Elienay Estrada, a Cuban national and mother of a two-month-old baby, is facing the distressing possibility of deportation after receiving a sudden notice from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). This notification came shortly after her routine annual visit at the Miramar, Florida office. In a TikTok video, Elienay shared that she has been attending these yearly appointments without incident since 2021, under the I-220B status. On June 11, she completed her usual procedure, submitted her documents, and was given a new appointment for June 2026. "I left feeling relieved because, despite the turbulent times, they extended it for another year," she recounted.

However, her relief was short-lived. While resting at her aunt's home in Miami, she received a text and email notification summoning her back on June 24. "Several attorneys I've consulted told me it's likely for deportation proceedings," she explained in her video.

During her Miramar appointment, the process deviated from previous years. This time, she had to present her papers and identification to an officer behind glass. Upon reviewing her alien number, the officer noted a deportation order due to her denied asylum claim. Elienay attempted to clarify her situation, stating, "In 2019, I was returned to Mexico under the 'Remain in Mexico' program (MPP) and re-entered without a hearing, leading to the I-220B assignment." She also highlighted her family ties: "I'm married to a permanent resident and have a two-month-old baby," but she felt the officer was indifferent, or perhaps took notes on the computer.

After this encounter, she was handed an appointment for the following year. Yet, the notification for June 24 loomed ominously. "Everything indicates it's for executing the deportation," she lamented.

Social Media Support and Concerns

Elienay's story has triggered a wave of reactions on social media, with hundreds expressing their support and concern on TikTok. Figures like Ely Mangano have initiated prayer chains for her. Others shared similar experiences and offered advice.

"This happened to my husband; during the second appointment, they didn't let him leave. Go with your daughter," one user cautioned. While some advised against attending, the prevailing sentiment encouraged maintaining faith.

"We're experiencing a very tough situation, extremely tough. Imagine being separated from my family, my husband, and my baby, who is just two months old," Elienay expressed.

The Case of Heydi Sánchez: A Resounding Precedent

Elienay's predicament echoes the case of Heydi Sánchez Tejeda, a Cuban mother deported on April 23 after attending a routine ICE appointment in Tampa. Like Elienay, Heydi was under I-220B status and had a young child, a one-and-a-half-year-old in her case.

According to her husband, U.S. citizen Carlos Yuniel Valle, Heydi was unexpectedly detained during the appointment and deported three days later, despite initiating a family reunification process two years prior. Her petition was recently approved following intervention by Democratic Congresswoman Kathy Castor, but this doesn't ensure an immediate return.

"People think she'll be back tomorrow, but that's not the case. This is just the first step, and now the battle begins," Valle explained. Heydi must navigate a lengthy process involving three immigration waivers, including one for deportation, barring her re-entry to the United States for five years.

Key Questions About U.S. Immigration and Deportation

What is the I-220B status in U.S. immigration?

The I-220B status is a form of supervised release for individuals with pending immigration cases. It allows them to remain in the U.S. under specific conditions while their case is being resolved.

How can family ties affect deportation proceedings?

Family ties, such as being married to a permanent resident or having U.S. citizen children, can be considered in deportation proceedings. However, they do not guarantee that deportation will be halted.

What are the implications of the 'Remain in Mexico' program?

The 'Remain in Mexico' program, officially known as the Migrant Protection Protocols (MPP), requires asylum seekers to wait in Mexico for their U.S. immigration hearings. This can complicate their legal status and re-entry into the U.S.

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