Cuban Deportations Rise Under New Policy. Immigration Laws Change With Governments.

What Happened

The Biden administration has increased deportations of Cuban nationals from Florida to record levels, reversing previous policies that generally allowed Cubans to remain in the U.S. The policy shift affects thousands of Cuban migrants who arrived in recent years.

Historical Context

U.S. Cuban immigration policy has shifted repeatedly: the Cuban Adjustment Act (1966) allowed most Cubans to stay, Obama's "wet foot, dry foot" policy ended in 2017 under Trump, and deportation numbers fluctuate with each administration. Cuban migration surged after 2021 economic crisis, with over 220,000 Cubans arriving at the border in fiscal 2022 alone - the highest since the 1980 Mariel boatlift.

What's In Your Control

Whether you stay informed about immigration policy if it affects you or your community. Donating to or volunteering with legal aid organizations that help immigrants. Contacting representatives about immigration policies you support or oppose.

Does This Require Action?

This affects Cuban immigrants and their families directly. For most others: awareness of policy changes that reflect broader immigration patterns. Those with strong views on immigration policy can engage through normal civic channels.