Hispanic Heritage Month Spotlight: Cuban Arrivals
From FY2022 to FY2023, the number of Cuban newcomers served by ACC increased from 79 to 315, making Cubans the largest demographic group welcomed in 2023 - a trend that has continued in 2024.
As Cuba contends with an unprecedented economic and humanitarian crisis, more and more families are seeking refuge in the United States. Factors like economic sanctions from the U.S. and the COVID-19 pandemic have increased strain on the economy by limiting trade, disrupting tourism, and exacerbating shortages of essential goods like food, medicine, and fuel.
These challenges have led to widespread discontent, protests, and violence across the country.
Erick and Mariela arrived in Denver with their two daughters, Hanny and Ainhoa, in September 2023 after fleeing the crisis in Cuba. Ordinary life for the family was impossible in Cuba. Even working many hours as a supply specialist, food and other basic items were nearly impossible to find and afford.
“I would spend my whole day trying to find a place to get milk for my baby. But I wasn’t able to find milk at any store, at any price…
You can wear the same clothes for a week, but you can’t survive on eating one chicken for you and your family for a whole week.”
In response to the growing needs of our Cuban community members, who typically arrive with a temporary, two-year status called “Humanitarian Parole”, ACC created two new staff positions dedicated specifically to providing services to Cuban newcomers. ACC’s (now former) Cuban Services Coordinator Kai Hirasaki works every day with families like Erick and Mariela’s to help them access the support and benefits that are available to them. “We help people apply for food assistance, Medicaid, and other public benefits, as well as access English classes, medical services, legal services, and cash assistance,” she explains.
But Cubans with Humanitarian Parole status still face considerable challenges after resettling in Denver. Unlike Ukrainian and Afghan parolees, Cubans are not authorized to work upon arrival to the U.S. and must apply to receive work authorization, a process that can take months.
“One of the biggest barriers our [Cuban] community members are facing as they build their lives here in Denver is work authorization, with some people having to wait a full year until they are eligible to even apply,” Kai says. “While we try and help as best we can through these programs, it's incredibly difficult for families to support themselves without being able to work.”
But despite these obstacles, Erick and his family remain hopeful for the future that they are building in Colorado. Once he receives his work authorization, Erick would like to obtain his Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) so that he can continue working and supporting his daughters.
“Our dream is to have a better and safer future for our daughters… they are the ones who motivate and encourage us. ”
Written by Megan Waters, Development & Communications Specialist