Cruces Violentos, Violent Crossings: Undocumented Mexican Migration and Deportation Narratives

This study explored the experiences of 9 undocumented Mexican migrants who are living in San Diego County. This research examined their migration and deportation experiences. Through the use of in-depth interviews, the participants in this study shared their day-to-day lives in the United States and their narratives of migration. Main findings in this study illustrate how violence is an overarching theme throughout the migration experience, life in the U.S., and deportation. Undocumented migrants have limited work opportunities due to their legal status and found themselves accepting hostile working conditions. Undocumented migrants faced violent and aggressive tactics during apprehension and deportation due to surveillance by I.C.E. (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) in their communities. The study found that, after deportation, migrants returned to the Unites States because of family ties. Given the extent of violence and labor exploitation, recommendations include creating open borders, offering amnesty and pathways to citizenship for current undocumented migrants, and that immigration enforcement reduce brutality and wear body cameras.