Cuban singer-songwriter Descemer Bueno has voiced his criticism of U.S. immigration policies while expressing support for Republican Senator Marco Rubio, whom he sees as the "hope for Cubans" dealing with the I-220A. In a Facebook comment responding to a CiberCuba article about a Cuban mother detained by ICE with an I-220A, Bueno lamented the plight of Cuban immigrants in the U.S., accusing Republicans of being "more communist than the Democrats" for allowing deportations of those fleeing the Havana regime.
"It's harsh to flee from hell only to be deported in the land of dreams. Ironically, the Republicans, who leave much to be desired, seem more communist than the Democrats themselves. I have no doubt now that they are the ones sustaining communism, particularly the U.S. government, because they save billions on maritime borders that the Cuban communist government guards for free, paying just a meager seven Cuban pesos to the indoctrinated young men of the Mandatory Military Service," the artist expressed.
Bueno declared that "Marco Rubio is the only hope" for Cubans, although he acknowledged that Rubio's influence is limited: "A great man, a wonderful person whom I had the honor to meet, but his hands are tied. God bless you, Marco," he concluded.
The singer's comment sparked a wave of reactions within the Cuban community in the U.S., with some voicing their support. A user identifying as Deni García commented that it is actually the Democrats who have welcomed Cuban immigrants: "Finally, many Cubans here and in Cuba realize we're in the U.S. not because of the Republicans or, least of all, Trump, who has always been racist towards Latino immigrants. We're here thanks to the Democrats who opened the doors for us. Trump is even racist towards Puerto Ricans, who are American citizens," he wrote.
Conversely, some of Bueno's followers praised his courage in addressing the difficult situation faced by Cubans with the I-220A, a document that has created legal uncertainty for many immigrants in the U.S. "I wish more Cuban artists would raise their voices to support those with I-220A, nobody knows the suffering we endured there and now here," commented another user.
The issue of immigration continues to be a contentious topic within the Cuban community in the U.S., particularly as thousands of Cubans face challenges in regularizing their immigration status. Many have placed their hopes on Rubio, who has long been an advocate for the immigrant community.
Understanding the Cuban Immigrant Experience in the U.S.
What is the I-220A and how does it affect Cuban immigrants?
The I-220A is a document issued by U.S. immigration authorities that grants a temporary stay for certain immigrants, including Cubans. However, it does not provide legal status and leaves many facing uncertainty about their future in the U.S.
Why do some view Marco Rubio as a hope for Cuban immigrants?
Marco Rubio is seen as a hope because he has been a longstanding advocate for the Cuban community in the U.S., often speaking out on issues affecting immigrants and working to influence policy changes that could benefit them.