Biden welcomes over a million immigrants using humanitarian parole

Cuba is currently experiencing significant turmoil, marked by nationwide scarcity and an increase in emigration coupled with governmental crackdowns. The situation mirrors challenges in other regions such as Haiti, where gangs have intensified violence and disrupted political processes. Since taking office, President Joe Biden has utilized a legal mechanism known as humanitarian parole to address the immigration crisis, allowing over a million individuals, including a significant number from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela, to enter the United States. This measure has been regularly employed by both Republican and Democratic administrations to assist those facing undue pressure from their home countries or time-sensitive situations. More than half a million migrants from these nations have benefited from this program since its introduction, which includes a variety of supportive measures like work authorization and an online application process designed to streamline access. However, this legal tool faces potential dismantling under the incoming Trump administration, which aims to end what they deem the 'abuse of parole' highlighted during the campaign. The anticipated policy shift could lead to the revocation of humanitarian parole for individuals who have already been granted this status, raising fears amongst immigrants about deportation and their futures in the United States. Human rights activists and experts warn that such a change could be devastating, especially for those vulnerable individuals relying on protections offered by current pathways like Temporary Protected Status and Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA). This situation creates an atmosphere of uncertainty, as many immigrants, like Manuel Castaño from Nicaragua, express their apprehension about returning to their home countries due to ongoing threats and safety concerns.