Every day, a large number of immigrants, including many Cubans with the I-220A form, anxiously attend their mandatory appointments at the ICE office in Miramar, located in Broward County. They face the fear of whether they will be able to return home or be detained. "I feel nervous because if something happens to me, my family would be left without support," Yasel Gutiérrez shared in a statement to Univision. Accompanied by his wife and son, he showed up at the office this week, aware of the risks but determined to follow the law. "I'm in limbo because being here doesn't mean I'm legally here," he admitted.
Immigrant Support Efforts
"Everyone is terrified; many people don't even want to attend their appointments," explained Royma Alarcón, another attendee. Meanwhile, outside the ICE building, several pro-immigrant organizations have set up support stations to assist those waiting under the sun. "They come from far away places, so we started bringing coffee, water for the elderly, and snacks for children," mentioned Yaquelin López from the American Friends Service Committee, holding a sign that read: “Love Knows No Borders.”
Yasel's appointment was scheduled for 8:30 a.m., but the uncertainty stretched on for hours. His wife, waiting with their child, grew worried as she watched ICE patrols leave with detained individuals. Finally, past 1 p.m., Yasel emerged, relieved. "They didn't ask me anything, just if I had a court date, and then scheduled me for next year," he recounted, describing the collective anxiety in the ICE waiting room.
Legal Concerns and Recent Detentions
In recent days, tensions have escalated with the detention of a group of Cuban women with I-220A on March 10. Attorney Wilfredo Allen emphasized that despite isolated incidents, most Cubans with I-220A do not encounter issues during their ICE appointments. Among the detained women are Laura de la Caridad González Sánchez, Yadira Cantallops, Denice Reyes, and Beatriz Monteagudo. Their families fear deportation as they were moved from Broward to detention centers in Arizona and later San Diego, California.
Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar's Commitment
Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar addressed migrants with I-220A, stating she had discussions with top officials from ICE and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), urging them not to detain more Cubans and to allow their asylum cases to be heard. "I am keenly aware of the detentions of Cubans with I-220A during their appointments in Miramar and am thoroughly investigating the situation," she assured in a supportive message posted on X.
Salazar reiterated her efforts since the Biden administration to find a solution for Cubans with this status, promising not to relent until necessary. "Rest assured, I won't give up this fight, and I'm loudly advocating for 'Parole in Place' for them," she added, expressing confidence that a resolution might be achievable under the Trump administration.
Understanding the I-220A Form
The I-220A form, known as the “Order of Release on Recognizance,” is a document allowing individuals to be released from federal custody under certain conditions, such as attending immigration hearings and not violating local or federal laws. However, this status does not constitute official admission to the country nor does it provide immigration benefits, leaving recipients in a precarious legal state.
A significant drawback of the I-220A is that Cuban migrants released under this condition are ineligible to adjust their status under the Cuban Adjustment Act, as they are not considered “inspected and admitted” into the country. This limitation affects thousands of Cubans who have arrived in recent years, hoping to secure permanent residency.
Immigration law experts advise those in this position to seek specialized legal counsel. It is crucial to adhere to all conditions outlined in the I-220A and attend all scheduled appointments with immigration authorities to avoid further complications.
Key Questions About I-220A and Cuban Migrants
What is the I-220A form?
The I-220A form, or "Order of Release on Recognizance," allows individuals to be released from federal custody under specific conditions. It does not grant official entry or immigration benefits, leaving recipients in a legally uncertain position.
Why are Cuban migrants with I-220A concerned about their ICE appointments?
Cuban migrants with I-220A are concerned because attending ICE appointments can lead to detention and deportation, despite many fulfilling their legal obligations. The uncertainty and fear of detainment contribute to their anxiety.
What actions has Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar taken regarding Cubans with I-220A?
Congresswoman Salazar has engaged with ICE and DHS officials, advocating for the cessation of detentions of Cubans with I-220A and for their asylum cases to be heard. She remains committed to finding a solution for these individuals.