Karina Argos Viera, a Cuban national, left many of her followers stunned when she announced on TikTok her decision to return to Cuba after spending four years in the United States under the I-220A immigration status.
"After four years in the U.S., this is the million-dollar question. People ask if I'm crazy or if I gave up. I didn't give up; I made this choice for my peace of mind," she stated in the video, which has gone viral among Cubans both on the island and abroad.
Argos detailed that her return was prompted following an appointment with immigration authorities (ICE) on September 18th, during which she endured what she described as “the two worst hours” of her U.S. experience.
“They put me in a room and left me there for two hours. They didn't do anything to me, but the fear inside that room is something I wouldn't wish on anyone,” she recounted.
The young woman expressed her apprehension over the recent detentions of migrants with pending cases and declared a preference for living peacefully with her family in Cuba rather than facing potential deportation from a detention center.
"I made the decision to return to my country, to my home, where my family is. Life is one, and what's meant for you will be, no matter what. I asked God to make His will, not mine," Argos shared, visibly moved.
She dismissed the criticism she has faced for her choice, defending her right to pursue what she believes is best for her well-being. "I haven't been defeated. As long as I have life and health, no one has defeated me. I don't live to appease the world, but to be true to myself," she affirmed.
In her closing remarks, Argos lamented the tendency among many Cubans to judge others' decisions. "Cubans have normalized criticism. They judge you if you leave, if you stay, or if you return. Let people live in peace. Everyone should do what makes them happy," she concluded.
Understanding the Motivations Behind Returning to Cuba
Why did Karina Argos decide to return to Cuba?
Karina Argos chose to return to Cuba for her peace of mind after experiencing a distressing encounter with U.S. immigration authorities and fearing potential deportation.
How did Argos address the criticism she received?
Argos dismissed the criticism, emphasizing her right to choose what is best for her and stating that she lives to be true to herself, not to please others.