A viral video shared by content creator Adalberto Rodríguez (@newlatinostv) captures the moment when a Cuban resident in the United States was confronted by ICE agents while parked in his car with his partner and baby.
This Cuban couple narrowly avoided detention because they had a critical document with them: the Green Card, also known as the U.S. residency card.
The footage, recorded by the immigrant himself from inside his vehicle, shows several officers from the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) approaching and asking him to lower his window and present his identification.
The man hands over his Real ID, an officially recognized document in the U.S. However, the officers appear unsatisfied and begin questioning him about an alleged court appointment, suggesting he might be detained on the spot.
One of the officers can be heard saying, "We've checked your documents, and you can't be in the United States. We're going to detain you."
Remaining calm, the Cuban responds firmly, "Wait, let's save time. Here are our Green Cards. We are residents in the United States."
The officer appears surprised and visibly uneasy, even questioning the authenticity of the documents. She asks the Cuban why he didn’t present them earlier, to which he replies, "You asked for identification, and I provided our Real ID."
The video has sparked thousands of comments and reactions on social media, with many users emphasizing the importance of staying calm and understanding one's rights as a legal resident in the United States.
Understanding Resident Rights in the U.S.
What is the significance of carrying a Green Card?
A Green Card is crucial as it serves as proof of legal residency in the U.S., protecting individuals from potential detention by immigration authorities.
How should one respond when approached by ICE agents?
It's important to remain calm and provide the requested identification. Understanding your rights and having necessary documents like a Green Card can aid in resolving misunderstandings.