Yanisley Molina, a spirited Cuban woman in her fifties residing in Nashville, Tennessee, has turned to social media to seek assistance from the exile community after months of fruitlessly searching for employment in the United States.
In a heartfelt video on her TikTok account (@yanisley.molina), she shared her story of arriving in the U.S. in August 2024 through an appointment with the CBP One program. However, the recent revocation of work permits for beneficiaries of this initiative has left her in dire straits.
"I've submitted my resume to countless places and received no responses. I'm desperate. I need to move forward and not become another burden," she said through tears. While she has received support from family and friends, she can't continue relying on them forever.
Molina's experience highlights the distress faced by thousands of Cuban migrants who legally entered the U.S. through the southern border using parole granted by CBP One—a program established by the Biden administration that has been dismantled under President Donald Trump.
Since May, Cubans who entered through CBP One have started receiving official notifications from the U.S. government about the impending revocation of their work permits. This measure has been applied even to those who were already employed, paying taxes, and following established legal channels.
These immigrants not only risk losing their work authorization but also face potential penalties and even deportation proceedings. Experts have urged affected immigrants to seek urgent legal counsel, emphasizing that working without a permit does not prevent them from applying for the Cuban Adjustment Act, provided they meet the formal requirements. However, any irregularities or inaction can lead to severe consequences.
Molina's predicament exemplifies how this political shift has upended the lives of those who, like her, trusted in a legal pathway to restart their lives in freedom.
Legal Challenges for Cuban Migrants in the U.S.
What is the CBP One program?
The CBP One program was an initiative by the Biden administration that allowed certain migrants, including Cubans, to enter the U.S. legally through the southern border using a parole system. This program has since been dismantled under President Donald Trump.
What challenges do Cuban migrants face after the revocation of work permits?
Cuban migrants face the loss of work authorization, potential penalties, and the risk of deportation. This situation has created significant uncertainty and hardship for those who relied on the CBP One program for legal entry.
Can Cuban migrants still apply for the Cuban Adjustment Act?
Yes, Cuban migrants can still apply for the Cuban Adjustment Act as long as they meet the formal requirements. Legal experts advise seeking immediate counsel to navigate the process and avoid any potential issues.