The detention of a close relative of Cuban dissident Eliécer Ávila at a U.S. immigration facility has ignited an online confrontation with Uruguayan activist Carlos Eduardo Espina, a prominent voice on immigration issues within the Latino community. Espina took to Instagram, sharing a video that highlights what he perceives as a contradiction between Ávila's support for Donald Trump's policies and the challenging predicament now facing his family.
Espina captioned the video, "Another Cuban Trump supporter left without a smile," juxtaposing images of Ávila celebrating Trump's electoral victory with a current video where Ávila describes his brother-in-law’s detention. Ávila characterized his relative as a "noble, hardworking person, a truck driver," lamenting his receipt of an I-220B document upon entering the country.
"He was detained at his court appointment and is now in immigration detention. My sister's husband is in an immigration prison," Ávila disclosed in the video Espina shared. Espina, a staunch Trump critic, argued that the situation was foreseeable. "Everyone knew this was coming if Trump won—a brutal crackdown on all Latinos regardless of nationality," he stated.
Ávila's Robust Defense of Trump
Ávila quickly responded with another video, reaffirming his support for the Republican leader. "I support President Trump now more than ever. I don't vote with my emotions; I vote with my mind. And if a tiny part of that package affects my family, I can't condemn the entire policy for one exception," he asserted.
The Cuban dissident pointed out that his brother-in-law's immigration order was issued by the Democratic administration. "What is an I-220B? It's a deportation order. And who gave it to my sister's husband? Your president, Biden!" Ávila retorted to Espina, even challenging him to a public debate.
The exchange underscores not only the tensions within the Cuban and broader Latino migrant community but also the political divides among those who share the migration experience, yet interpret U.S. policies differently.
Carlos Espina's Rise as an Activist
Carlos Eduardo Espina, raised in Texas, has become a key figure in advocating for immigrants' rights. With over 6.8 million followers on TikTok and more than 455,000 on Instagram, he leverages his education in Political Science and Law to vociferously oppose Trump's policies and the conservative factions that support them.
His direct approach and clashes with figures like Alexander Otaola and Ávila have amplified his social media prominence. Espina sees the case of Ávila's brother-in-law as indicative of the fallout from supporting immigration measures that, in his view, invariably harm Latino communities indiscriminately.
Understanding the I-220B Document
The document Ávila's brother-in-law received, known as the I-220B (Order of Release on Recognizance), does not confer legal status but allows temporary release while deportation or asylum proceedings continue. It is commonly used by ICE for migrants not deemed flight or security risks, often granted to Cuban rafters.
While it permits individuals to await in freedom, it does not shield them from deportation and typically leads to expulsion proceedings.
Growing Controversy
In September, Ávila voiced his discontent over the deportation of another compatriot, Deivy Alemán Oropesa, also under ICE custody. He questioned the insensitivity of the U.S. immigration system: "Is there truly no one in the United States who can review a case? (...) With so many criminals, informers, and oppressors roaming free in this country, why is Deivy the target?"
Meanwhile, Espina continues to bolster his profile as a pro-immigrant activist, critically challenging those who support Trump while decrying the same immigration machinery when it affects their friends or family. The rhetorical clash between them confirms that U.S. immigration policy divides not only Republicans and Democrats but also the Latino communities that endure its impact firsthand.
Key Questions About U.S. Immigration and Politics
What is an I-220B document?
An I-220B, or Order of Release on Recognizance, is a document issued by ICE allowing a migrant temporary release while their deportation or asylum process continues. It doesn't grant legal status and often leads to deportation proceedings.
Who is Carlos Eduardo Espina?
Carlos Eduardo Espina is a Uruguayan activist raised in Texas, known for his strong advocacy for immigrant rights and opposition to Trump's immigration policies. He has a significant social media following and engages in public debates on these issues.
How does Eliécer Ávila view Trump's policies?
Eliécer Ávila supports Trump's policies, viewing them as beneficial overall despite the personal impact on his family. He believes in voting based on logic rather than emotion, even if specific policies affect those close to him.