After residing in Orlando, Florida, for seven years, Cuban national Deivy Alemán Oropesa has made the difficult decision to voluntarily leave the United States following a removal order issued by the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). This decision has been particularly painful for his Cuban immigrant family, as his daughter suffers from a severe heart condition requiring additional open-heart surgeries.
During an appointment with ICE, Alemán was informed that if he remained in the U.S., he would face detention and eventual deportation. Alternatively, he was required to present a ticket for his departure from the U.S. by Sunday. "I believe the best option is to leave voluntarily," Alemán told journalist Javier Díaz.
The most heart-wrenching aspect of this ordeal for Alemán is leaving his family behind, especially his daughter who is awaiting another surgery. The news has left his family in a state of shock and uncertainty.
The Family's Ongoing Struggle
On September 8, Deivy Alemán attended a routine appointment with ICE and was informed he must leave the country by September 14. Refusal to comply would result in immediate detention and forced deportation. His wife, Yisel Miguel Sarduy, expressed that they are still reeling from the news and unsure how to navigate the immediate future.
"My hope is that, once in Cuba, the reunification petition filed by my wife will come through, allowing us to be together here as soon as possible," Alemán stated.
The family's story gained attention weeks earlier when it was revealed that their daughter had undergone three open-heart surgeries and required further medical procedures. While Yisel focuses on caring for their daughter, Deivy has been the sole provider for the family.
ICE's Stance and Public Reaction
Journalist Javier Díaz, who has closely followed the case, criticized the situation on social media, highlighting that neither humanitarian reasons nor Alemán's impeccable behavior have halted his deportation. "It's a sad case where humanitarian reasons or being an exemplary immigrant don't matter; if there's a deportation order, it will be enforced," Díaz emphasized.
Despite not having a criminal record, Alemán's "offense" was crossing the border irregularly. Since then, he has lived with an active deportation order. If he fails to leave by the specified date, he risks arrest and potential detention at any time.
There has been a surge of support on social media, with many questioning ICE's insensitivity in what is clearly a humanitarian case. Yisel also warned of increasing challenges faced by Cuban families at the ICE office in Orlando, who have presented medical evidence and documentation to no avail. "It was all for nothing," she lamented.
The family has an approved I-130 petition, a step in the family reunification process. Stories like theirs illustrate the harsh reality faced by many Cubans in the U.S., who, despite years of residency, live under the constant threat of deportation. For these individuals, legal avenues are dwindling, turning daily life into a battle for survival.
Deivy Alemán's departure from the U.S. is scheduled for September 14, the deadline set by ICE. Beyond this date, any attempt to stay could lead to forced detention and irreversible deportation.
Understanding the ICE Deportation Process
What is the reason behind Deivy Alemán Oropesa's deportation order?
Deivy Alemán Oropesa has no criminal record; his deportation order stems solely from entering the U.S. irregularly through the border.
What are the consequences of not complying with a voluntary departure order from ICE?
Failure to comply with a voluntary departure order can result in arrest and detention at any time, leading to forced deportation.
How has the public reacted to Alemán's deportation case?
The case has sparked public outcry and solidarity on social media, with many criticizing ICE's lack of sensitivity toward a humanitarian situation.