Just three hours before fulfilling a dream cherished by countless immigrants—becoming a U.S. citizen—a Cuban woman received a call that turned her day upside down. Her naturalization ceremony was abruptly canceled without explanation or a new date being provided.
"Living like this, in fear, is overwhelming," expressed Anyi Cabrales to Telemundo, still shaken by the shock and uncertainty. The notification first arrived via email and was followed by a phone call from a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) officer, informing her that the oath scheduled for that day was no longer happening.
Neither a reason nor guidance was offered, just the silence of a system stalled for individuals from the 19 countries deemed "high risk," including Cuba and Venezuela.
The Tense Immigration Climate Under Trump Administration
This Cuban woman's story highlights the tense immigration climate in the United States under the current Trump administration. Although she had passed her exam, submitted all necessary documents, and completed every required step, her future was put on hold due to measures enacted by the administration on December 2. These measures ordered the suspension of all immigration processes, including residencies, asylum claims, and naturalizations, for citizens from those 19 nations.
Dreams Deferred at the Door of the Oath Room
Thousands of immigrants in similar situations have experienced interview and ceremony cancellations "from one day to the next," sometimes just minutes before they were set to begin, as reported by ABC News and The New York Times.
The nationwide halt is part of USCIS memorandum PM-602-0192, which mandates the suspension of all immigration adjudications for citizens of countries listed in Presidential Proclamation 10949, the new travel ban. As part of these measures, even previously approved Green Cards are being re-evaluated, and pending decisions are blocked until further notice.
Immigration lawyers consulted by U.S. media outlets caution that this suspension might last "weeks or months," advising those affected to keep their documents current and await official communication. Many, however, fear that the delay could lead to arrests or unexpected reviews.
Understanding the Impact of Immigration Suspensions
What led to the cancellation of naturalization ceremonies for Cuban immigrants?
The cancellations are a result of a USCIS memorandum that suspends all immigration processes for citizens from 19 countries, including Cuba, due to the new travel ban implemented under the Trump administration.
How long might the immigration suspension last?
Immigration lawyers suggest that the suspension could continue for several weeks or even months, urging affected individuals to keep their documents updated while awaiting official updates.
What should immigrants do if their naturalization process is delayed?
It is recommended that immigrants maintain their documentation up to date and remain patient for an official announcement, despite the uncertainty surrounding the delays.