The Wider Image: A Cuban fishing village ponders its options as U.S. policy shifts
Ana Maria Mederos, 59, sells cups of coffee for 10 pesos (8 cents) off her front porch, as her husband Jose Luis Gonzales, 56, repairs his keychain, in Isabela de Sagua, Cuba, January 28, 2023. Isabela de Sagua long ago became known in Cuba as a jumping-off point for maritime migrants, tempted by its proximity to U.S. territory and rules that were formerly lenient on Cubans who arrived by water. Now a U.S. "parole" program announced in early January will allow 30,000 migrants from Cuba, as well as other countries, to enter the United States monthly provided they apply online, find a financial sponsor and pay airfare. "Cubans have made up their minds that you can't live here, and they are going to get out any way they can," she said, adding that she herself had no choice but to stay and care for a sick family member. "Those who can leave under this new program will, but there are many who won't have the possibility (of sponsorship) and will keep taking their chances by sea, over land, whatever." REUTERS/Alexandre Meneghini SEARCH "MENEGHINI CUBA MIGRATION" FOR THIS STORY. SEARCH "WIDER IMAGE" FOR ALL STORIES. TPX IMAGES OF THE DAY