Former Cuban broadcaster Alejandro Quintana has shared a heartfelt message through a letter aimed at fellow immigrants holding I-220A status (Order of Release on Recognizance), urging awareness about the challenging circumstances they face in their quest for a better life in the United States.
In a video posted on TikTok, Quintana clarifies that his open letter addresses "those who stigmatize immigrants under I-220 status and those enduring it." He states, "For many, this status has become a symbol of waiting and vulnerability, but also of resilience and hope," capturing the reality of thousands of immigrants.
Challenging Perceptions
Quintana expressed disappointment that many societal sectors perceive individuals with this status as "different" or "marked by supposed weakness." He stressed that they, like anyone else, seek "the opportunity to contribute, thrive, and become part of a community," emphasizing that immigration legal processes do not define a person's worth.
Immigration Complexities
In his letter, the young Cuban detailed the intricate nature of immigration processes, highlighting language barriers, procedural complexities, and uncertainties. He called for "more empathy, understanding, and solidarity" towards newcomers instead of additional judgments and prejudices.
"Don’t let the stigma rob you of your dignity. Hold your head high, knowing you are in a process that many do not understand, but ultimately leads to your freedom and stability. Keep moving forward with the conviction that this status is temporary and does not determine who you are or what you can achieve in life," he urged in his message, which has garnered hundreds of comments.
Community Support
Comments on his video included, "Very beautiful! Everything said is very true. Society can be very cruel," "Your words are very comforting, my brother," and "I hope the world has deep ears and feelings."
Quintana, known for his work on Cuban television and radio, emigrated to the United States in 2022. During his first year, he worked in a restaurant with grueling shifts of 12 to 14 hours daily, and on Sundays, he delivered packages through Amazon Flex. "Thousands of immigrants have done the same with good judgment and a desire to move forward," he mentioned in a recently released video.
Since 2022, amid the severe Cuban migration crisis, more than 850,000 migrants from the island have arrived in the United States, according to figures from the Customs and Border Protection (CBP).