A Cuban living in the United States under the I-220A immigration form has taken to TikTok to celebrate his three-year milestone in the country and advocate for his family's legal standing. In his heartfelt video, he underscores that their migration was not driven by economic hardship but by a quest for "freedom, independence, and sovereignty through hard work."
Expressing his desire for legal recognition, the user @jorgerodriguez1324 stated, "We want our documents, we want our residency, to be legal." He detailed how he, his wife, and his son have adhered to all tax obligations over the past three years while living under the I-220A status: "We've been paying taxes, paying everything, doing things the right way."
Concerns for the Next Generation
One poignant part of his story is his concern for his son's future: "My son just completed the 10th grade and is already receiving college offers, but without residency, he can't attend any university." This highlights the challenges faced by families seeking stability and opportunity in the U.S.
Breaking Stereotypes and Embracing Freedom
Rodríguez firmly rejected the stereotype that they migrated for an easier life: "Some say we're here for handouts... no, we came seeking freedom, independence, sovereignty, and to work." He contrasted his achievements in the U.S. with his life in Cuba: "I spent 47 years in Cuba with nothing but unreliable Russian motors, and in just three years here, see what I've achieved... my wife, son, and I, working hard."
He proudly showcased his family's fully paid cars, asserting, "Everything is paid for, we owe nothing to any bank." His remarks sharply criticized recent comments by Miguel Díaz-Canel about Cuban emigrants: "Our incompetent Díaz-Canel says all Cubans who left are failures... and that's the truest thing he's ever said. Yes, we were failures in Cuba, not here. Here, we've found freedom and independence."
Support and Political Advocacy
Rodríguez also expressed support for the Cuban Nationalist Party and thanked Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar: "Thank you for what you're doing for us, for keeping us in mind. We are not here for handouts; we are Cubans seeking freedom, independence, and sovereignty."
The post garnered support from fellow Cubans online, with messages of encouragement, admiration for his hard work, and criticism of ICE, accusing the agency of targeting hard-working individuals rather than actual threats. Similar stories are common, with many Cubans under I-220A sharing their experiences, including opening small businesses like a barbershop in Houston or a beauty salon in Miami, despite legal uncertainties. Other accounts narrate family separations, like a heartfelt letter sent to a mother from exile.
Ongoing Political Debate
The political discourse surrounding this issue remains vibrant. Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar has consistently supported these migrants, advocating against their deportation if they have no criminal records. She has also proposed a legal pathway for those who have been living and working in the U.S. for years. Her stance gained prominence following her announcement of a meeting with the Secretary of Homeland Security to discuss the plight of Cubans with I-220A.
Immigration experts, including attorney Liudmila Marcelo, have cautioned against closing cases without a formal ruling, as it could lead to immediate deportation. The legal uncertainty continues to loom over thousands of Cubans like Jorge Rodríguez, who demand order, stability, and the right to remain in the country they now call home.
Key Questions About I-220A and Cuban Migrants in the U.S.
What is the I-220A immigration form?
The I-220A is a form used by U.S. immigration authorities that allows certain individuals to remain in the United States under specific conditions while their cases are being processed.
Why are Cubans like Jorge Rodríguez advocating for residency?
Cubans like Jorge Rodríguez seek residency to gain legal recognition, ensuring they can continue their lives in the U.S. legally and access opportunities like education for their children.
What challenges do Cuban migrants face in the U.S.?
Cuban migrants often face legal uncertainties, the threat of deportation, and barriers to education and employment without proper residency status.