An uproar has erupted across social media following the official notice from the U.S. government to humanitarian parole beneficiaries, instructing them to leave the country once their immigration status expires. Many Cubans are voicing their anger, fear, and opposition to this decision, viewing it as a betrayal of those who entered the United States legally with hopes of starting anew.
"This isn't fair; many of us have jobs and have established our lives here. We came legally under a law enacted by the previous president; one administration shouldn't just erase it," expressed one frustrated individual.
"Having left everything behind to come here legally, now they want to treat us like we're illegal? This betrays those who trusted the system," another commented.
The discontent largely targets the actions of the Trump administration, which recently moved to terminate the humanitarian parole program that was established under the prior government. Many perceive this announcement as a tactic to discourage legal immigration, creating uncertainty for thousands of Cuban families.
"What they're doing is spreading desperation. They can't deport everyone, but in the meantime, they're leaving people unable to work and without rights. This is punishment for entering legally," one person noted.
Others pointed out that they could seek refuge under the Cuban Adjustment Act, but there is anxiety over potential delays and the risk of falling into an irregular status before completing the required year and a day.
"Fellow Cubans, don't panic. Don't break the law. Wait for the year and a day, apply on time. Have faith," advised one community member.
"God commands not to mistreat the foreigner who comes to your country. Where are the human rights now?" asked another, highlighting the broader implications of the situation.
The dismay extends beyond the Cuban community, with migrants from Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela also expressing concern over the cancellation of the program.
U.S. Government's Official Notification
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) began sending electronic notifications on Friday to migrants benefiting from humanitarian parole. The notice, shared by journalist Jennie Taer on social media platform X, instructs these individuals to voluntarily leave the country before their parole expires.
"You must depart the United States before, but no later than, the expiration date of your parole. Failing to depart timely may have adverse immigration consequences," the document warns.
DHS cautions that failing to leave voluntarily could lead to rapid removal proceedings or deportation trials under the Immigration and Nationality Act.
"With the termination of your parole, you may be subject to expedited removal or deportation proceedings unless you have departed or obtained a legal basis to remain," the notice states.
The revocation of employment authorization granted under this program was also announced. As of April 24, 2025, the work permit for those who have not changed their immigration status will no longer be valid.
"The DHS intends to revoke your employment authorization […] because the condition under which it was granted no longer exists," the notification explains.
Furthermore, the document specifies that presenting evidence of ongoing parole status will not halt the revocation of parole or prevent the termination of associated benefits. Meanwhile, thousands of legal and hardworking Cuban migrants, in the midst of adapting to life in the U.S., await further policy developments that will determine their future.
Key Questions on U.S. Immigration Changes
What is the humanitarian parole program?
The humanitarian parole program allows certain individuals to enter the United States temporarily for urgent humanitarian reasons or significant public benefit.
What are the consequences of not leaving the U.S. after parole expires?
Failure to leave the U.S. after parole expiration may lead to expedited removal or deportation proceedings, impacting future immigration status.
How does the Cuban Adjustment Act help Cuban migrants?
The Cuban Adjustment Act allows Cuban nationals to apply for permanent residency in the U.S. after one year and one day of physical presence in the country.