Following over a month of separation due to a forced self-deportation, Yisel Miguel Sarduy managed to reunite with her husband, Deivy Alemán Oropesa, in Cuba. Accompanying her was their young daughter, a two-year-old U.S. citizen with a serious heart condition requiring a third open-heart surgery. This poignant and painful reunion underscored the emotional devastation inflicted by migration policies and the uncertainty enveloping their family.
Emotional Reunion Amidst Uncertainty
In an interview with journalist Javier Díaz from Univisión, Yisel shared the complexities of her journey, the emotional weight of seeing her husband again in a country he never wanted to return to, and the stark realities of life in Cuba. "These were unique, yet deeply concerning moments due to the situation there. We took great care of our daughter, bringing everything necessary for her protection," Yisel explained. Images she shared on social media revealed intimate family moments, showcasing tender interactions between father and daughter that had been denied to them for weeks.
A Painful Choice Driven by Immigration Pressures
The reunion, although cherished, was shadowed by pain. Deivy's return to Cuba after seven years in the United States was abrupt and coerced. In September, facing an ultimatum from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to either accept detention pending forced deportation or voluntarily leave by the 14th, Deivy chose the latter. "It's incredibly hard to see him like this. We've been through so much. We are left speechless, praying for a miracle to bring him back to support our daughter, which is our top priority," Yisel shared, visibly affected.
A Family Torn Apart by Bureaucracy
The daughter's stability—both emotionally and medically—remains the family's central concern. "Her stability and health are paramount. We hope he can be here for her next surgery, expected next year, just as he has been for the previous ones," the young mother added. Deivy's absence, beyond emotional hardship, disrupts the very fabric of their household. As the family's primary breadwinner, his forced departure has left a significant void.
Struggling Through a Broken System
Despite filing medical reports, cardiologist letters, and holding an approved I-130 petition—proving familial ties to a U.S. citizen—the immigration authorities disregarded these humanitarian grounds. Their attorney, Rosaly Chaviano, pointed out that under current policies, humanitarian factors are largely overlooked. Deivy was under immigration supervision (I-220B), and the sole option presented to him was to leave voluntarily or face indefinite detention in an ICE facility. The decision to leave, though heart-wrenching, was made with the family's future in mind. "I believe the best choice is to leave voluntarily. What pains me most is leaving my daughter and family here as she awaits surgery," Deivy confessed, tears in his eyes.
Hope Amidst Separation
While their family reunification request remains pending, the family stays apart. Friends and supporters have initiated a Change.org campaign seeking clemency and awareness for their plight. Yet, time is of the essence as their daughter's medical needs are pressing, and her father's presence is crucial for her well-being. "My hope is that while in Cuba, I receive notice of my wife's petition and can return soon," Deivy expressed before boarding the plane that took him away from the United States, leaving his heart behind.
Understanding the Impact of U.S. Immigration Policies on Families
Why did Deivy Alemán Oropesa choose to self-deport from the U.S.?
Deivy chose to self-deport after receiving an ultimatum from ICE to either accept detention or leave the country voluntarily. He opted for self-deportation to avoid indefinite detention and to consider his family's future.
What challenges is the family facing after Deivy's return to Cuba?
The family is dealing with the emotional and financial strain of being separated. Deivy was the primary breadwinner, and his absence has left a significant gap. Additionally, their daughter needs medical attention in the U.S., complicating their situation further.
How is the family advocating for Deivy's return to the U.S.?
The family and their supporters have launched a campaign on Change.org to raise awareness and seek clemency for Deivy's case. They are also relying on an approved I-130 petition, although it has yet to be approved.