A Cuban woman currently navigating the I-220A immigration process in the United States has sparked a wave of reactions by sharing a heartfelt TikTok video. In it, she calls for faith, unity, and hope among the thousands of immigrants facing uncertainty regarding their legal status. "I know exactly what you're going through. I know these are tough times, filled with uncertainty and immense anxiety... because, like you, I am on I-220A. Like you, I am scared, and like you, I struggle with anxiety and depression," says the young woman known as @deimysespinosa in her viral video from recent days.
Her message is intimate and spiritual in nature, encouraging viewers to stay strong and united. "I am not willing to give up what God has done for me to any man, or to submit to the will of any man," she continues. "Let's stand firm, let's be strong, let's move forward with everything we have, and let's get through this process. Do you know how we will get through this? All of us united, on our knees, looking up to the sky."
This powerful message has resonated with many Cuban immigrants in the U.S., generating tens of thousands of views and reactions. "When I kneel to pray to God, I don't ask for my residency, because I don't want just my residency. I want residency for the thousands of immigrants who have had to make the difficult decision to leave their country, leaving children, parents, grandparents, everything behind," she emphasizes.
The video has prompted a flood of comments, with many expressing gratitude for the words of encouragement and identifying with the message. "Your words gave me peace of heart," one person commented. Another shared, "I don't usually comment on anything, but this is the first video I've seen that resonates with me and has the right words of encouragement I give myself every night before bed."
Another viewer remarked, "How beautiful, your words brought me so much peace," while some shared their struggles: "My husband doesn't want to wait for his court date, he wants to go back to Cuba because he says there's no hope," a woman wrote. "I'm struggling with all of this," another confessed.
The responses overwhelmingly focus on faith. "Only God knows my life; if He brought me here, He will know when it's time for me to leave," one user declared. "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me," another wrote. Calls for prayer chains were also made: "We have a God who keeps His promises. Let's pray for everyone in a chain every day at 7 p.m."
@deimysespinosa's message is not an isolated one. It joins other recent testimonies gaining traction on social media. Recently, a Cuban father with I-220A shared his story of perseverance in the U.S., stating, "We've been paying taxes for three years, paying for everything, doing things the right way, and we want to have our papers."
A young woman’s letter to her mother also went viral, expressing, "Here I am holding on, Mom, with the hope of waking up one day to the best news in the world."
The video comes at a time of increasing uncertainty for immigrants with I-220A. On July 4th, the U.S. Supreme Court authorized the deportation of several migrants, including two Cubans, to South Sudan, despite warnings that they could face torture or death.
Immigration attorney Liudmila Marcelo has also warned about changes in Miami and Orlando immigration courts, where more judges are demanding in-person appearances and dismissing asylum cases, leading to immediate detentions.
"We Need Wisdom, Strength, and Connection with God"
In her message, the young woman stresses the need to strengthen one's faith and avoid impulsive decisions: "You are not in a position to go around doing whatever comes to mind... Now more than ever, your stance must be one of wisdom, understanding, and connection with God."
She criticizes the panic fueled by social media: "Enough of this fear, this uncertainty... Stop wasting your time on social media and connect with the One who can solve your problem and the problems of thousands of human beings who are here risking too much to end up with absolutely nothing."
"I think if all the I-220A and I-220B and all the letters and numbers they've come up with… if we united in a single voice, instead of wasting time on gossip... praying for you and for all those in a situation like yours, the process would take less time," she concludes.
Frequently Asked Questions About I-220A Process for Cuban Immigrants
What is the I-220A immigration process?
The I-220A is a document issued to some immigrants, allowing them to remain in the United States while their immigration case is pending. It often involves specific conditions that the immigrant must adhere to.
How can immigrants strengthen their faith during uncertain times?
Immigrants can strengthen their faith by seeking spiritual support, participating in community prayer, and focusing on hope and unity as they navigate their challenges.
What challenges do Cuban immigrants face in the U.S. legal system?
Cuban immigrants often face challenges such as legal uncertainty, changes in immigration policy, and the need to comply with complex legal requirements, which can lead to stress and anxiety.