A gathering of Cuban nationals holding I-220A documents took place in Miami this Wednesday to voice their concerns about the heightened oversight measures introduced by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The demonstration occurred outside the office of attorney Eduardo Soto, who represents Laura de la Caridad González Sánchez, a 26-year-old detained during an immigration appointment in Miramar, Broward County, Florida.
Sandra Vázquez, spokesperson for the I-220A Anticommunist Movement, stated that many Cubans with this status are prepared to undergo credible fear interviews if necessary, in order to regularize their status and remain in the United States to work, study, and grow their businesses. "We fled from one regime, and we cannot live under another regime in Miami," Vázquez stressed, highlighting the anxiety experienced by Cubans with I-220A cases in light of ICE's new supervision measures and the detention of immigrants without criminal records in the U.S.
Stricter Oversight for I-220A Holders
This week, individuals with I-220A status were informed that they would be subject to more stringent monitoring as their asylum cases proceed through the courts. This oversight will be conducted under the Intensive Supervision Appearance Program (ISAP), which requires regular check-ins, phone monitoring, and mandatory video calls. Additionally, ICE has cautioned that it might conduct home visits with support from local authorities.
The increased supervision and the threat of mass deportations have led to significant unease among Cubans seeking regularization. Thousands of Cuban immigrants are still awaiting a definitive resolution regarding their status. The community is calling attention to the persecution and fear that have resurfaced for those who escaped repression in Cuba.
Frequently Asked Questions About ICE's I-220A Supervision
What is the I-220A document?
The I-220A document is issued to certain immigrants as a form of release while their cases are pending, often involving specific conditions that they must meet.
Why are Cubans with I-220A status concerned about ICE's new measures?
Cubans with I-220A status are worried about the increased supervision and the potential for deportations, which adds to the uncertainty and fear they face as they seek to regularize their status in the U.S.
What is the Intensive Supervision Appearance Program (ISAP)?
The ISAP is a program that requires immigrants to comply with strict monitoring, including regular check-ins, phone monitoring, and mandatory video calls to ensure compliance with immigration proceedings.