Cuban activist Liosbel Sánchez Martínez, who took part in the July 11, 2021 protests, has been released after spending four months in ICE custody. He delivered a message of encouragement to fellow migrants and dissidents.
In a statement shared on social media by activist Cristhian González de la Moneda, also known as San Memero, Sánchez Martínez urged, "Don't give up... don't sign anything, it is possible to succeed," reassuring those who fear deportation back to Cuba.
Sánchez Martínez shared that he had his final hearing on a Friday and was released the following Monday. Both Liosbel and his brother Liosmel were detained by ICE on May 20, 2025, after attending an immigration hearing in Arizona. This arrest thrust them into a legal limbo, causing concern within the Cuban exile community who feared they might be sent back to Cuba and imprisoned for their involvement in the 11J protests.
The young activist expressed gratitude for the unwavering support of attorney Isabel M. Martínez, acknowledging her vital role since day one. He successfully passed the "credible fear" interview and expressed appreciation for the donors, journalists, and supporters who rallied around his case.
“Remember that it's ultimately the Cuban dictatorship that forces us to leave our countries,” Sánchez Martínez emphasized, reiterating his call to stay resilient during detention and asylum processes.
González had previously launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds to cover the legal defense costs for the brothers. Liosbel's release is a relief for his family and the activists who have been following the case, although his brother Liosmel remains detained.
This situation highlights the challenges faced by many Cuban asylum seekers in the United States, who, after escaping repression on the island, must navigate complex legal battles to avoid being returned.
Challenges for Cuban Asylum Seekers in the U.S.
What was Liosbel Sánchez Martínez's message to other migrants?
Liosbel encouraged fellow migrants not to give up and advised them not to sign anything, emphasizing that success is possible.
Why were Liosbel and his brother detained by ICE?
They were detained after attending an immigration hearing in Arizona, which led to a legal limbo, raising fears of deportation due to their participation in the 11J protests.
Who supported Liosbel during his detention?
Liosbel had the legal representation of attorney Isabel M. Martínez and received support from donors, journalists, and other advocates.