On Tuesday, Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar delivered a message to Cubans holding I-220A forms, emphasizing her recent discussions with senior officials from ICE and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). She earnestly urged them to halt further detentions of Cubans and to allow their asylum cases to be heard. "I'm very aware of the detentions of Cubans with I-220A during their appointments in Miramar, and I am thoroughly investigating the situation," the Cuban-American congresswoman asserted in a supportive message posted on X.
Salazar highlighted her persistent efforts since the Biden Administration to seek solutions for Cubans under this status, pledging not to cease her endeavors until necessary measures are taken. "Rest assured, I will not give up this fight, and I am vocally advocating for 'Parole in Place' for you," she added. Despite her unsuccessful attempts with the Biden Administration, she expressed confidence that a resolution could be found with the Trump Administration.
She concluded her message with a heartfelt appeal: "All I ask is that you pray for me and the efforts I'm making. I assure you, I haven’t forgotten you! Warm regards, María Elvira." Despite her optimistic tone, recent events have been troubling for Cuban migrants with I-220A.
Detentions in Miramar Raise Concerns
On Monday, March 10, a group of Cuban women, four of whom have been identified, were detained by ICE in Miramar after attending what they believed to be routine immigration appointments. This incident has left their families in distress, uncertain about their loved ones' immigration status. This anxiety has spread among other Cubans scheduled for check-ins.
However, immigration lawyers stress the importance of not missing any ICE appointments. Florida-based immigration lawyer Willy Allen believes that Cuban-American congress members can play a pivotal role in resolving the I-220A issue.
The Role of Cuban-American Lawmakers
Allen argues that the solution lies in the hands of the three Cuban-American congress members from Florida—María Elvira Salazar, Carlos Giménez, and Mario Díaz-Balart—since the issue is "administrative" and hinges on the "political will" of DHS Secretary Kristi Noem. "The Homeland Security Secretary can determine that the I-220A is a legal entry for the Cuban Adjustment Act based on previous laws and memoranda concerning Cuban entry, which require inspection and admission," Allen explained in an interview with CiberCuba, highlighting the potential impact of these congress members' votes in a closely divided House.
Despite Allen's past criticism of Salazar for proposing a bill granting legal status to I-220A holders, he acknowledged on Monday that she's the only congress member actively focusing on this issue, with plans to introduce legislation offering parole to these individuals, enabling them to pursue status under the Cuban Adjustment Act.
Understanding the I-220A Situation
What is the I-220A form?
The I-220A form is a document issued by ICE to individuals released from custody under an order of supervision, allowing them to remain in the United States temporarily while their immigration status is resolved.
Why are Cuban migrants with I-220A being detained?
Cuban migrants with I-220A are being detained due to uncertainties regarding their immigration status and the interpretation of their entry as legal or illegal, impacting their eligibility for relief under the Cuban Adjustment Act.
How can the Cuban-American congress members influence the situation?
Cuban-American congress members can exert political pressure on the DHS to administratively resolve the I-220A issue, ensuring that these migrants are not unjustly detained and can apply for the Cuban Adjustment Act.