Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar has sent a message to Cuban migrants who entered the United States illegally and possess an I-220A form (Order of Supervision). In a video shared on her Instagram account, Salazar emphasized her ongoing efforts to enable these individuals to apply for permanent residency through the Cuban Adjustment Act, teasing "new developments in September."
"To everyone with I-220A, I want you to know that I fully understand the situation you're in. Hundreds of people are approaching me, asking how to resolve this," she stated.
"I am very aware of your issues, and in September, I will reach out again so we can collaborate on various strategies. Hopefully, the Department of Homeland Security and the immigration authorities in this country will recognize that Cubans with I-220A have a pathway to citizenship via the Cuban Adjustment Act," she stressed.
The Republican politician reiterated that she has not forgotten her compatriots and is working to "take collective action before the elections. You with the I-220A, and I, your congresswoman."
"I haven't forgotten you! Expect new developments in September," she added.
In 2023, the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) in the United States dismissed the option of considering the I-220A form as valid for obtaining legal residency in the country, leaving thousands of Cubans in a migration limbo.
Shortly after, the Cuban-American congresswoman urged affected Cubans not to lose hope, emphasizing that it is impossible to leave nearly half a million Cubans in limbo.
"What I can say is that there is hope. The Biden administration and Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, who is Cuban-American, are well aware that it's impossible to leave nearly half a million Cubans with I-220A in limbo," she said.
Salazar highlighted that "regardless of the court's decision," the Biden administration can -through Secretary Mayorkas- grant parole to those already in the country, enabling them to take advantage of the Cuban Adjustment Act.
"I know very well that in this community in South Florida and across the United States, there are hundreds of thousands of Cubans in limbo without a migratory status that allows them to benefit from the Cuban Adjustment Act," she added.
"We know the Biden administration can take this executive action. Don't lose hope. I am confident that this group of Cubans in limbo will find a path," she concluded.
Frequently Asked Questions About the I-220A and Cuban Adjustment Act
Here are some common questions and answers regarding the I-220A form and its implications for Cuban migrants seeking residency in the United States.
What is the I-220A form?
The I-220A form is an Order of Supervision issued to migrants who have entered the United States illegally, allowing them to stay in the country under specific conditions while their immigration status is resolved.
What is the Cuban Adjustment Act?
The Cuban Adjustment Act allows Cuban nationals who have been in the United States for at least one year to apply for permanent residency, provided they meet certain requirements.
Why was the I-220A dismissed by the Board of Immigration Appeals?
The Board of Immigration Appeals dismissed the I-220A as a valid document for obtaining legal residency, leaving many Cuban migrants in a state of uncertainty regarding their immigration status.
What actions can the Biden administration take regarding the I-220A holders?
The Biden administration, through Secretary Mayorkas, can grant parole to I-220A holders, allowing them to apply for residency under the Cuban Adjustment Act.