Cuban-Americans no longer protected as Trump deportation policy bites hard
Cuban-American community reacts to deportation measures
The apprehension of Hernández and other former Cuban officials has elicited mixed reactions within South Florida's Cuban-American community. While some view the actions as necessary for national security, others perceive them as a betrayal, especially given the community's historical support for Republican policies.
Also read: Donald Trump's immigration crackdown backfires as key Republican voter base feels the heat from program's termination
Revocation of humanitarian protections for Cuban migrants
In a significant policy shift, the Trump administration revoked temporary humanitarian parole for approximately 300,000 Cuban migrants in March 2025. This move has left many individuals vulnerable to detention and potential deportation, disrupting the lives of those who had previously been granted protection under earlier immigration frameworks.
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Among those affected is Eliéxer Márquez, known as El Funky, a Cuban rapper recognized for his anti-communist anthem "Patria y Vida." Despite his vocal support for President Trump, Márquez received notice in April 2025 to depart the US within 30 days, underscoring the broad reach of the administration's immigration policies.
Since the enactment of the Cuban Adjustment Act in 1966, Cuban immigrants have benefited from expedited pathways to US residency. This preferential treatment distinguished them from other migrant groups, fostering a sense of security that is now being challenged by recent policy changes.
Also read: Trump touts immigration crackdown despite concerns about due process
The intensified deportation efforts have sparked political debates, with some Republican leaders advocating for stricter enforcement against former Cuban state agents. Conversely, grassroots organizations and Democratic figures have criticized the measures, arguing they undermine the trust and contributions of the Cuban-American community.
Despite policy intentions, logistical hurdles persist. The US currently conducts one deportation flight to Cuba per month, accommodating approximately 60 individuals. Given the estimated 500,000 Cubans who arrived during the Biden administration without protected status, the deportation process faces significant delays and complications.
Also read: US Immigration Crackdown | 350,000 Venezuelans face deportation risk as Trump gets SC nod
Activists like Luis Dominguez have taken proactive roles in identifying former Cuban state agents residing in the US. Through platforms like Represores Cubanos, Dominguez has compiled lists of individuals allegedly involved in past human rights abuses, sharing this information with federal authorities to aid enforcement actions.
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