The Cuban communicator Alejandro Quintana, residing in Miami, published an emotional video in which he reads an open letter addressed to Cuban migrants who arrived in the United States and were released under the I-220A form.
"This is an open letter for the unity of our people. This letter does not seek to blame anyone; this letter seeks awareness," Quintana begins in his post, shared on TikTok, where it has generated a wave of supportive reactions from hundreds of Cuban migrants directly affected by this situation.
"Today I want to speak to you from the heart, not as an influencer, not as a communicator. I want to speak as a Cuban, as one of those thousands who know what it's like to have a heart divided between two shores," he adds in a deeply emotional tone that has resonated with those who also face the uncertainty of migration on U.S. soil.
Quintana (@alequintanaoficial) also lamented the division that has arisen within the Cuban community in the U.S. due to the differences between those who received parole and those who did not. "One community settled, progressed, and took root, while the other remains in limbo, waiting for justice, waiting for a law that seems to constantly look the other way," he said.
The young communicator also called for the unity of legal professionals who advise migrants and criticized the conflict among lawyers, notaries, and paralegals. "What good is the truth if we use it to divide ourselves even further?" he asked. “Today, this letter is not just a call; it is a cry. A cry to those in power: use your knowledge to unite, not to compete. It is also a cry for those with I-220A, in which we tell them: you are not alone.”
In closing, he delivered a message that has been widely shared and quoted in comments: “History will not remember who made more money or who had more clients. History will only remember if we were able to save our own.”
Alejandro Quintana's post has received an overwhelming response of messages expressing gratitude, solidarity, and hope from other Cubans in similar situations. Many users resonated with his words and shared their own experiences.
"We just want to legalize ourselves. I pray to God for that day. Before leaving Cuba, I promised my three-year-old daughter that I would take her to freedom... she is now six, and I still can't tell her: you are free," wrote a visibly moved user.
"Thank you for your beautiful words, my brother," commented another follower. "How much we have been through, how much we have suffered. But God is with us," added a user.
"Thank you for speaking from the heart. God bless you. Don't stop, always fight for a dream," wrote another.
"Your words are filled with feelings for us Cubans," expressed @keniamaqueiro. Other comments highlighted phrases such as: "how true," "you made me cry," "blessings," "beautiful words," "thank you for remembering us."
The letter from Quintana is published just a few days after a significant decision issued by the U.S. Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA). On May 15, in the case Matter of Q. Li, the BIA affirmed that migrants who entered the country without authorization should have been released under parole status.
Although the case involves a Chinese citizen, its implications have sparked debate among legal experts regarding the potential application to similar cases, such as those of thousands of Cubans released under Form I-220A. This ruling opens the possibility for some migrants to argue that they are not subject to the restrictions of section 235(b) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, and therefore could request benefits such as bond hearings or status adjustments.
The ruling does not grant automatic benefits to Cubans with I-220A, but it has revitalized the efforts of organizations, activists, and attorneys seeking legal solutions for this group, estimated to be more than 400,000 people.
A familiar voice in the Cuban community
Alejandro Quintana, originally from Pinar del Río, was a host of youth programs on Cuban television such as "Das Más" and "Tengo algo que decirte". In 2022, he emigrated to the United States, after a journey from Nicaragua to the southern border, an experience he shared on his social media stating: “I am just one more in this massive, desperate exodus with no options.”
At that moment, he recounted the harsh realities of his migration journey and the need for freedom after years of working in official media.
Since then, he has built a recognized voice on social media where he has shared reflections, emotional testimonies, and posts dedicated to various realities of the Cuban exile, such as another letter dedicated to elderly immigrants that went viral with thousands of comments and views.
On this occasion, their message to Cubans with I-220A has reinforced their commitment to the community: to make emotions visible, to unite through words, and to remind that dignity is not negotiable.
"When a Cuban suffers, all of Cuba suffers. And when half a million await, the silence of others also hurts," he concluded in this new video that continues to touch hearts online.
Frequently Asked Questions about I-220A Immigration Status and the Situation of Cubans in the U.S.
What is the I-220A form and how does it affect Cuban migrants in the United States?
The I-220A form is a parole order that allows migrants to remain in the United States while their immigration status is resolved. However, it does not guarantee a defined immigration status or protection against deportation, leaving many Cubans in legal limbo.
What implications does the ruling in the Matter of Q. Li case have for Cubans with I-220A?
The ruling in the Matter of Q. Li case, although it involves a Chinese citizen, opens the possibility for migrants with an I-220A to argue that they are not subject to certain restrictions, allowing them to request benefits such as bond hearings or status adjustments. However, it does not grant automatic benefits to Cubans with an I-220A.
Why is unity among Cubans and legal professionals in the U.S. important?
Unity is crucial because it allows us to collectively confront legal challenges and seek solutions for the immigration status of Cubans with I-220A. Conflicts between attorneys, notaries, and paralegals only further divide the community, rather than helping to find a viable legal solution.
What message are Cubans with I-220A status sharing through social media?
Many Cubans with I-220A use social media to express their uncertainty, hope, and unity. They share their personal experiences, encourage others to keep the faith, and urge the authorities to find solutions for their regularization in the U.S. These messages have resonated within the community, demonstrating a strong connection and resilience in the face of adversity.
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