A significant controversy has erupted within the Cuban community in the United States following Oniel Bebeshito's concert last December at the Pitbull Stadium in Miami, which drew nearly 20,000 attendees, predominantly Cubans. Some individuals on social media have voiced that Cubans without U.S. residency, particularly those with I220A status who attended the reggaeton artist's concert, should be expelled from the country, sparking a wave of divided opinions.
One young woman with I220A status took to her TikTok account, @soidofficial, to express her thoughts amid the uproar: “I'm shocked at how we can hurt ourselves so much.”
She further clarified, “They held that concert in Miami for Bebeshito, and now people are saying all I220As are communists or followers, and a million other things. First of all, I'm I220A. Secondly, I have nothing to do with that, I didn't attend the concert, and I don't even like it.”
With calm composure, this Cuban woman delivered a message to those fueling the controversy: “Don't generalize because in reality, not all of us are the same, and there are plenty who are followers and have everything, including papers. So, don't generalize because the worst one is hidden, and no one sees them.”
This week, a video went viral featuring another Cuban who criticized Bebeshito and those who attended his concert, suggesting that Donald Trump should “put them all on a plane” and send them to Tapachula, so they experience difficulties again, paying smugglers to reach U.S. soil.
Understanding the I220A Controversy
What is the I220A status?
The I220A status pertains to a specific immigration designation for certain Cuban migrants in the United States.
Why was the Bebeshito concert controversial?
The concert sparked controversy because some individuals believed that attending the event should disqualify Cuban immigrants without residency from remaining in the U.S.
How did the Cuban community react to the concert?
The community was divided, with some supporting the concert-goers and others criticizing them, leading to intense debates on social media.