Facing a critical moment, young Cuban mother Elienay Estrada, holding an I-220B form and caring for her two-month-old daughter, is set to meet with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) tomorrow. She remains hopeful that she will not be separated from her child. "Today, I'm home cherishing my baby and trusting in God. Tomorrow, everything will be fine. I've done everything within my power, now I just have to wait and trust! If the worst happens, my husband and I will have to make a decision that's best for our family," she shared with CiberCuba.
Estrada's legal defense team filed a stay of deportation five days ago, on Wednesday, June 18, requesting permission for her to remain in the United States while her family reunification application is processed. This request has been in motion since the beginning of the year.
Attorney Liudmila Marcelo, although not representing Estrada, commented on her situation to CiberCuba. She emphasized that Estrada's case should highlight her husband's status as a permanent resident and the fact that their infant daughter, a U.S. citizen, naturally requires her mother's presence. Additionally, the child's medical appointments in the U.S. and the dire state of public healthcare in Cuba further necessitate the stay.
Estrada has also reached out to her district's Republican congressman, Carlos Giménez, who expressed concern and vowed to assist despite limited options. Recently, ICE summoned her urgently, giving her less than a week to prepare, following an annual interview that had initially set her next appointment for the following year.
On TikTok, Estrada has found emotional support, though she has also encountered harsh stories, such as a Cuban couple with I-220B who chose to return to Cuba to avoid separation from their 18-month-old child. One mother advised Estrada to secure a passport for her daughter before the ICE meeting to prevent future bureaucratic issues if deportation occurs.
Indeed, Attorney Marcelo advises arriving at the ICE appointment fully prepared, with all documentation in order—from establishing a guardian for the baby to managing bank accounts. This preparation is crucial to avoid the fate of Cuban mother Heidy Sánchez Tejeda, who was deported in April despite having a nursing 18-month-old daughter. Her employer issued her final paycheck to her husband, Yauniel Valle, who requested it be deposited into her account, unaware that the bank had canceled her cards upon deportation, resulting in a total loss of funds.
Now, all that remains is to wait and see what unfolds tomorrow.
Key Questions on ICE Appointments and Family Reunification
What is an I-220B form?
The I-220B form is a notice to appear, indicating that an individual must report to ICE for an immigration proceeding. It often involves individuals who are under deportation orders or other immigration-related issues.
Why is it important for Estrada's daughter to have a U.S. passport?
Having a U.S. passport ensures that Estrada's daughter retains her citizenship rights and facilitates travel and identification processes. It also helps prevent complications in the event of potential deportation proceedings.
What steps can be taken to prepare for an ICE appointment?
Individuals should gather all relevant documentation, including identity papers, legal documents, and proof of family ties. Planning for guardianship and financial management is also crucial in case of an unfavorable outcome.