Cuban-American Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar Intercedes for Cubans with I-220A Detainees

The situation for Cubans with I-220A status has taken a significant turn in South Florida, where arrests have been reported during routine appointments at the ICE office in Miramar. So far, there have been about five known arrests, most of them women, who generally have no criminal record.

Cuban-American Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar has issued a statement expressing her concern about these detentions. She has been in contact with senior officials at ICE and the Department of Homeland Security, requesting an end to the detention of Cubans with I-220A status and that their asylum cases be allowed to be heard.

“I am very aware of the detentions of Cubans with I-220As during their appointments in Miramar and I am thoroughly investigating what is happening,” Salazar said in his message.

The congresswoman has been one of the few voices in Congress to bring this issue to the public eye, insisting on the need for a solution for Cubans in this situation. Despite her efforts, the Biden administration has not taken effective measures, leading Salazar to seek support from the Donald Trump administration to find a solution.

In his statement, Salazar also mentioned that he has been fighting for "parole in place," a measure that would allow these Cubans to remain in the country while their cases are resolved. "I will not give up on this fight," he stated, asking the community to pray for his efforts.

In addition, the congresswoman announced that she is preparing a bill to be introduced in Congress that would seek to implement parole in place for Cubans with I-220A status. Although introducing this bill is a complicated process, Salazar is optimistic that if she manages to gain the necessary support, the bill could be passed.

On the other hand, it has been reported that some of the detainees have been transferred to detention centers in other states, further complicating the situation for their families trying to reach them. ICE authorities have indicated that these detentions are being carried out to hold individuals while they await their asylum applications, but no clear pattern has been established as to who is being detained.

From Salazar's perspective, those without criminal records do not pose a threat to national security and should be able to await their asylum processes in freedom, thus contributing to the economy and avoiding becoming a burden on the government.

The Cuban community in Miami is closely monitoring the situation, hoping that the congresswoman's efforts will result in a favorable solution for those facing this difficult situation.

The situation is delicate and constantly evolving, so more information is expected in the coming days. Salazar continues to be an active voice in the fight for the rights of Cubans in the United States.