A Cuban woman, who goes by the handle @my.hope2023 on TikTok, recently shared a heartfelt video detailing her immigration journey in the United States under the I-220A form. In the video, she also talks about her recent application for a new work permit tied to her pending residency request. Her story has resonated deeply with fellow Cuban migrants facing similar challenges.
"Today, I applied for my work permit due to my pending residency, but getting here wasn't easy," she says in the video, which shows her engaged in everyday household chores. The post is accompanied by a message where she acknowledges, "My immigration journey hasn't been simple: fears, waiting, and a lot of learning. I share my experience because I know many have gone or are going through the same. If you relate, leave me a comment and join me on this path."
In her video testimony, the Cuban woman elaborates on her experiences since arriving in the U.S.: "Did you know it took me nearly a year to apply for political asylum? Not because I didn't want to, but because I had no one to guide me. I was newly arrived, uninformed, and each day brought me closer to the one-year deadline to apply. This meant living without papers, in fear and uncertainty, but with the hope that it would all be worth it someday."
She continues, "Once I finally managed to apply, I had to wait six months to request my work permit and driver's license. Right now, my work permit has expired, but I've already applied for a new one. I share this because I know many have experienced or are experiencing the same."
The Cuban also reflects on the mistakes she made due to a lack of guidance: "Arriving without direction, making mistakes out of ignorance, and feeling time slip away is something we all face at some point in life."
The testimony concludes with a message of perseverance: "After court hearings and more hearings, immigration presentations, I applied for residency and am now applying for my work permit again, this time because my residency application is pending. With patience and faith, things start to come together, and although the process is tough, each step forward is a small victory bringing us closer to the stability and life we dream of."
The comments section is filled with other Cuban users expressing their connection to her story. Responses like "The same happened to me" and "That's exactly how it is" highlight the emotional bond her testimony has created. Supportive messages and words of encouragement were also shared by the creator herself, who replied, "At least, over time, we gain a bit more perspective."
This narrative adds to a collection of stories shared by Cuban migrants with I-220A navigating similar paths in the United States. In July, a young woman identified as @deimysespinosa called for faith and unity among migrants amid legal uncertainties. In another instance, a Cuban woman known as @susaily sought support following the ICE detention of a young man with I-220A, reminding others that "what happened to him could happen to anyone."
Messages of perseverance have also emerged, such as that of @jorgerodriguez1324, who celebrated his family's achievements over three years in the U.S. and advocated for the right to legal residency.
Amid the debate, user @bethechange80 sparked controversy with a direct message to the emigrant community: "We came here to work, not to party or have fun."
Other messages, like Milenita's, shared during a meeting with influencer Dairon Cano, offered hopeful words: “Everything will be resolved and soon everything will return to normal.”
Insights on Cuban Migrants' Experiences with I-220A
What challenges do Cuban migrants face with the I-220A form?
Cuban migrants often face challenges such as lengthy wait times, a lack of guidance, and the stress of uncertainty while navigating their immigration status under the I-220A form.
How do personal testimonies impact other migrants?
Personal testimonies provide emotional support and a sense of community among migrants. They offer relatable experiences and encouragement, helping others feel less isolated in their struggles.
What role does social media play for Cuban migrants in the U.S.?
Social media serves as a platform for Cuban migrants to share their stories, seek guidance, and build a supportive network, which can be crucial during the immigration process.