The deportation of Heydi Sánchez Tejeda, a Cuban mother holding an I-220B, has sent shockwaves through the immigrant community in the United States due to her separation from her 12-month-old daughter. Her case was highlighted in an interview with journalist Javier Díaz from Univisión Noticias, where her attorney, Claudia Cañizares, provided insights into the immigration proceedings and the potential for her return.
Last week, Heydi Sánchez was deported to Cuba, despite her marriage to a U.S. citizen, Carlos Yuniel Valle. Cañizares explained that Sánchez had a final deportation order issued in 2019, which they had unsuccessfully attempted to reopen prior to her recent arrest.
"We were recently hired and were in the process of acquiring her immigration records to try to reopen her case and remove the deportation order," Cañizares stated. However, the procedure was abruptly halted when Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) moved up her check-in appointment, initially scheduled for May, leading to her immediate detention and deportation.
Surprising Turn of Events
The attorney pointed out that in similar cases, with fewer humanitarian concerns, extensions were granted to other migrants, leading to expectations of a similar outcome for Sánchez. "We were surprised first by the rescheduling of her appointment and second by the manner in which she was treated," she said.
Cañizares also accused ICE of being driven by deportation quotas. "I believe, unfortunately, she was treated as just another statistic, a number they needed to meet their targets," she lamented.
Path to Reunification
Is there a chance for Heydi Sánchez to reunite with her family in the United States? According to her lawyer, there is a possibility, though the journey will be arduous. Several immigration waivers will be required due to her previous deportation order and unlawful presence in the country.
"First, we need her immigration record; then we will file the necessary waiver applications and request an interview at the embassy," Cañizares explained. The process could take several years, contingent on the approval of the waivers and the evidence presented to justify her absence at a prior immigration hearing.
Meanwhile, Heydi Sánchez's family and legal team continue their efforts to overturn a situation that, beyond immigration statistics, has caused profound personal anguish.
Frequently Asked Questions About Heydi Sánchez's Case
What led to the deportation of Heydi Sánchez?
Heydi Sánchez was deported due to a final deportation order from 2019, which was not successfully reopened before her recent arrest by ICE.
What steps are required for Heydi Sánchez to return to the U.S.?
Her attorney plans to obtain her immigration record, file for the necessary waivers, and seek an embassy interview, although this could take several years.