Katia Pérez Baute, a 38-year-old Cuban who has been residing in the United States since 2022, was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and taken to a detention center in Dallas, Texas, despite holding an I-220A form. Her detention has raised concerns due to her fragile health condition and clean record in the country, as reported on social media by Univision journalist Javier Díaz.
The journalist revealed that Katia has been battling cancer since she was three years old. She suffers from the aftermath of a Wilms tumor—a childhood kidney cancer—for which she underwent two surgeries. Currently, she survives with half a kidney and relies heavily on medications like Tramadol and Gabapentin to manage chronic pain and maintain her nervous system. Her medical condition makes a prolonged stay in detention facilities untenable. Her immune system is exceptionally weak, and her family fears that detention could endanger her life.
A Rebuilt Life in America
Since arriving in the United States, Katia has led an exemplary life. “She has attended all her court appointments and was told to await her residency,” reported Díaz. Nonetheless, instead of receiving the expected immigration documents, she unexpectedly faced an arrest order. During her time in the U.S., Katia has integrated into the community, worked tirelessly, and maintained a spotless legal record. "Not even a traffic ticket," lamented a close friend. Her next court date is set for November 4, but her family is primarily concerned about the possibility of deportation before her case is thoroughly reviewed.
Outcry for Justice and Humanity
Katia's arrest has sparked a wave of indignation and solidarity online. Hundreds of messages are calling for her immediate release, emphasizing her integrity, her fight for survival, and the dangers she would face if returned to Cuba, where accessing essential medications like Tramadol is severely limited. Her mother, María Elena Baute, visibly distressed, pleaded publicly, “God, please take care of my daughter. I'm devastated. She is in pain and has health issues. Have mercy so she can survive. There she can get her medication and food.”
Support has poured in from colleagues, neighbors, and acquaintances from her hometown of Camagüey and various parts of the United States. “She is a hardworking, honest woman. She doesn’t deserve this,” stated a neighbor. Another friend shared, “Katia is more than a companion; she’s a part of my story here. Thanks to her, I got my first job in this country. Seeing her in this situation hurts us deeply.” An online user advised, “The family should contact a congressman. This case is sensitive; they need to address everything before she is deported.”
Community Testimonies: A United Plea
Among the countless comments, phrases like “May God intervene and let that young woman be freed, she needs it” and “In Cuba, she would die; there are no medicines or conditions for her to live” stand out. Many criticize the immigration system's contradiction, which they say punishes those who follow the rules. “Why does ICE detain an honest, sick woman who has contributed to this country?” asked one user.
The Uncertainty of the I-220A
Katia is among the thousands of Cuban immigrants who entered the U.S. with an I-220A form, a document that has caused significant legal uncertainty. While this form does not signify legal entry nor guarantees a path to residency, many holders have lived in the U.S. for years with work permits and without significant issues, until recent immigration operations started targeting them for deportation. To many Cubans, these arrests are seen as a direct attack on their community.
“She is living proof of how good people are detained,” commented one individual. Another added, “Detention centers are full of people like Katia, not criminals.” Her cousin expressed, “We have not heard anything from her since she was detained. She’s not even listed in the detainee locator with her registration number,” while another relative noted. A friend summarized, “Katia has been fighting for her life since she was a child. She doesn’t deserve to be locked up. This country should give her the chance to continue living.” The community is hopeful that the immigration court will evaluate her case with humanitarian considerations and halt her detention due to her medical condition.
Key Questions About Katia Pérez Baute's Case
What is the significance of the I-220A form for Cuban immigrants?
The I-220A form allows Cuban immigrants to enter the U.S., but it does not constitute a legal entry or assure a path to residency. Many with this form have lived in the U.S. with work permits, but recent immigration operations have begun targeting them for deportation.
Why is Katia Pérez Baute's health condition a concern in detention?
Katia has a severely compromised immune system due to her medical history, making detention life-threatening. She relies on essential medications for pain management and nerve maintenance, which may be unavailable in detention.
What actions are being taken to support Katia Pérez Baute?
Her family and community are advocating for her release by contacting lawmakers and raising public awareness about her case to ensure it is reviewed with humanitarian considerations.