Cuban writer and activist Guillermo Rodríguez Sánchez has embarked on a migration journey that has taken him through the jungles of Nicaragua. Utilizing Facebook as his platform, Rodríguez is chronicling his expedition through various posts. Recently, he shared a message indicating that his time has come and he has reached Nicaragua. "I'll write the post to bring tears and share my emotions about departing from José Martí Airport. For now, just a brief update—everything's good. I brought my sandals to let you know. And of course, we'll continue aiding many people from this profile, now even more than before," he stated.
An impactful moment of his journey was etched in his memory. "Among all the mental images from the first day traversing Nicaragua, one stood out above the rest, seared into my retina. I could write endless praises, sublime dedications, and verbal tributes to that Cuban girl carrying her baby safely through the unknown jungle, but no, here it’s best to proclaim a resounding 'Cuban women are the backbone of their country.' I don't know about you, but I kneel before any mother brave enough to overcome so many fears and uncertainties, launching into the world with her child, like a lioness roaring for a better future," he expressed.
Despite leaving Cuba, Rodríguez Sánchez remains committed to organizing donations through his Facebook profile, aided by friends still in the country. "Ahh no, we won't stop helping individuals with disabilities from this profile whenever possible. My absence from Cuba doesn't prevent Verona Bonce from distributing what our empathetic followers donate," he recently posted.
A Challenging Migration Context
The activist's departure comes at a particularly difficult time for Cuban migrants. Just weeks ago, the Cuban government received the first deportation flight from the United States under the new administration of Donald Trump. On February 27, 104 Cuban migrants (84 men, 19 women, and one minor) were returned to the island. This repatriation flight is part of bilateral migration agreements between the two nations and aligns with the U.S. president's promise to ramp up mass deportations.
In 2025, there have been 11 repatriation flights from various countries, totaling 296 individuals returned to Cuba. This situation creates uncertainty among Cuban migrants seeking to reach the United States or other safe destinations to rebuild their lives.
Guillermo Rodríguez Sánchez now faces the challenges of a journey through the jungle. He hasn’t disclosed his final destination, but he is on a path that typically leads through Mexico in hopes of reaching the U.S. border. His followers eagerly await updates from the jungle while continuing to support vulnerable people in Ciego de Ávila.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cuban Migration
What challenges do Cuban migrants face when leaving the country?
Cuban migrants often face dangerous journeys through jungles and uncertain pathways, compounded by the risk of deportation due to bilateral agreements between Cuba and other countries.
How is Guillermo Rodríguez Sánchez supporting people from abroad?
Rodríguez Sánchez continues to organize donations through his Facebook profile, with the help of friends in Cuba, to assist individuals with disabilities and others in need.
What is the significance of the recent deportation flights to Cuba?
The deportation flights are part of the U.S.-Cuba bilateral agreements and reflect the U.S. administration's intensified efforts to deport Cuban migrants, adding to the uncertainty and challenges faced by those seeking asylum or new opportunities.