On November 7th, 26-year-old Cuban national Iván García Pérez was unexpectedly taken into custody by agents of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) during a routine check-in in Miramar, Florida. This incident coincided with the day he was set to take the NCLEX exam, a crucial step toward securing his nursing license in the United States.
The situation came to light through a post on social media platform X by his cousin, Rubén Enrique Banegas Pérez, who sought to raise awareness and called for compassion from the authorities.
"Iván is not a criminal. He is a regular, calm individual whose sole focus has been his education and personal growth. Today, he finds himself scared and isolated from his family, leaving his mother and all of us devastated and bewildered by such an occurrence," Banegas shared.
Banegas further elaborated to Martí Noticias journalist Mario J. Pentón that Iván García holds an I-220A immigration status, has consistently adhered to all his appointments with the authorities, and has no criminal record, not even a traffic violation.
"Everything was in order. Nevertheless, during his routine appointment in Miramar on November 7th, he was detained without any apparent reason," Banegas stated in a letter to the Cuban journalist, seeking assistance in reaching out to congress members or public figures who might intervene in the situation.
"We feel powerless in the face of what we consider an unjust and inhumane decision. We struggle to understand why a young, exemplary student and healthcare professional without any negative background is detained. We firmly believe that public attention and influential voices can prevent another injustice within the immigration system," Banegas added.
Concerns for Cubans Under I-220A Status
García's detention has intensified concerns amid a period of growing tension and uncertainty for Cubans in the U.S. with I-220A status, a precarious legal condition as they await the outcomes of their cases.
Immigration attorney Willy Allen has repeatedly warned in interviews with CiberCuba that Cubans with I-220A face significant risks if detained, as recent months have seen the initiation of deportations under this category, even among those without final deportation orders.
Despite this, Allen believes that individuals with I-220A will eventually have their statuses regularized, contingent on a judicial decision that could qualify this status as a "parole," thereby potentially allowing them to apply for adjustment under the Cuban Adjustment Act after a year and a day in the country.
Allen cautions, however, that the process might result in "casualties" due to arbitrary decisions and political pressure to appear tough on immigration.
Currently, it is estimated that more than 400,000 Cubans are navigating the uncertain terrain of I-220A status, awaiting a judicial ruling anticipated in the coming months.
"Justice and Humanity" Plea
Iván García's family has voiced their anguish and hopes that publicizing his case will prevent his deportation. "We plead for justice, humanity, and his immediate release," his cousin appealed on social media, emphasizing that the young nurse only wishes to "continue contributing to the healthcare system of this country he loves so much."
Meanwhile, anxiety grows within the Cuban community in the U.S. regarding the fate of those like Iván, who live in limbo, torn between the hope of regularizing their status and the persistent fear of detention and deportation.
FAQs on Cuban Immigration Status and Detentions
What is I-220A status?
I-220A status is a form of release used by U.S. immigration authorities that allows individuals to be free while awaiting a decision on their immigration case. It does not provide a clear legal status and often leaves individuals in a state of legal uncertainty.
Why are Cuban nationals with I-220A status at risk?
Cuban nationals with I-220A status are at risk due to potential detentions and deportations, as recent actions indicate increased enforcement. The lack of a final legal status under I-220A makes them vulnerable to arbitrary decisions by immigration authorities.
What can be done to help those detained under I-220A?
Raising public awareness, seeking legal assistance, and appealing to lawmakers and public figures can help individuals detained under I-220A. Advocacy and intervention from influential voices may impact their cases positively.