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Oscar Casanella Faces Immigration Uncertainty After Asylum Hearing Ends Without Verdict

Wednesday, June 25, 2025 by Oscar Fernandez

Oscar Casanella Faces Immigration Uncertainty After Asylum Hearing Ends Without Verdict
Oscar Casanella - Image © Video Screenshot

The political asylum hearing for Cuban activist Oscar Casanella in a Miami immigration court concluded this Tuesday without a verdict. The proceedings, which spanned over six hours—from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.—ended without a final resolution, leaving the scientist in a state of legal uncertainty until July 11, the deadline the judge has set to issue her written decision.

"I would have preferred an answer today, but the judge needs time. I only shared a small fraction of the pain I endured," the Cuban dissident told the press after leaving the courtroom. Casanella's attorneys, who were present throughout the day, described the hearing as lengthy but fair. "The judge and the prosecutors were generous in listening to the testimony," they commented following the session.

Nevertheless, they highlighted that the decision was postponed to allow time for the assessment of evidence and the formulation of the formal ruling. Casanella himself acknowledged feeling well-supported, though disappointed by the lack of an immediate resolution: "I have a vast amount of information because I lived under repression for many years. What I presented today wasn't even 10% of what I suffered. It's incredibly difficult to articulate," he noted.

Casanella, a biochemist and former university professor in Havana, has been a prominent figure in the San Isidro Movement and civic activism against the Cuban regime. His association with individuals like Ariel Ruiz Urquiola and Gorki Águila put him on the radar of State Security since 2013. For years, he was subjected to surveillance, threats, house arrests, and professional retaliation.

Legal Limbo and Community Support

In January 2022, he crossed the southern U.S. border in El Paso, Texas, with his pregnant wife and young son. Unlike other migrants, Casanella did not receive parole but was released with an I-220A document, leaving him in a legal limbo without access to essential immigration benefits. "They didn't even conduct a credible fear interview. They just released me with that paper, and since then, I haven't had basic rights. This process has us trapped," he stated in a prior interview.

After the hearing, Casanella expressed gratitude "to the friends who are helping to raise awareness about this. The response will take weeks," he wrote on social media. The Cuban exile community, along with activists on the island, have strongly advocated for him to be granted political asylum, acknowledging his record of activism and persecution.

Highlighting Immigration System Challenges

Casanella's case underscores the contradictions of the U.S. immigration system, which provides entry pathways to regime officials while imposing obstacles on those who have been their victims. "It's unacceptable that the oppressors live freely here while we continue waiting for justice," Casanella denounced in previous statements.

By July 11, the judge is expected to deliver a written verdict. Until then, Casanella, his family, and supporters will remain in anticipation of a decision that could determine his future in freedom or possibly force his return to the country where he was persecuted.

FAQs About Oscar Casanella's Asylum Case

Why did the asylum hearing for Oscar Casanella end without a verdict?

The judge needed additional time to review the evidence and prepare a formal ruling, which is expected by July 11.

What challenges does Oscar Casanella face in his immigration process?

Casanella is in a legal limbo, having entered the U.S. without parole and lacking access to essential immigration benefits. He also did not receive a credible fear interview.

How has the community responded to Casanella's situation?

The Cuban exile community and activists within Cuba have rallied on social media, urging that political asylum be granted to Casanella due to his history of activism and persecution.

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