Jason De León

In this thought-provoking discussion, anthropologist Jason De León shares his shocking discovery of a human arm in the Sonoran Desert while investigating migrant deaths. He explores how U.S. Border Patrol's 'Prevention Through Deterrence' policy has led to a tragic rise in fatalities since the late 1990s. Joined by Radiolab reporter Tracy Hunt, they narrate powerful stories from the border, shedding light on the harrowing experiences of those crossing in search of a better life, and the complex effects these policies have on communities.

Silvestre Reyes, former Border Patrol chief in El Paso, shares insights on the controversial Operation Hold the Line, a significant policy shift in border enforcement. Jason De León discusses the grim reality of migrant deaths in the Sonoran Desert, tracing the rise in fatalities to harsh border policies. Doris Meissner reflects on the political climate influencing immigration policies during the Clinton administration. Together, they uncover the human stories behind border enforcement, ethical dilemmas, and the urgent need for reform.

Jason De León, an anthropologist known for his research on migrant deaths in the Sonoran Desert, shares chilling insights about the human cost of border policies. He recounts the haunting discovery of a woman's body, Maricela, during his fieldwork and the emotional journey to connect with her family. The podcast explores the profound impact of U.S. immigration deterrence strategies on individual lives, delving into stories of loss, resilience, and the sacrifices made by migrants seeking a better future.

Jason De León, an anthropologist and author of "Soldiers And Kings," shares insights from his extensive research on human smuggling. He discusses the dangerous journeys faced by migrants as well as the complex roles of smugglers like Kingston and Roberto. De León reveals the shift from individual operators to organized crime, financial intricacies, and the ethical dilemmas within the smuggling industry. He emphasizes the importance of empathy and understanding the systemic issues driving migration, urging for comprehensive reform in U.S. immigration policies.

Anthropologist Jason De León discusses his insights from living with migrant smugglers in Mexico, highlighting their motivations, dangers they face, and the broader implications of smuggling. The podcast explores the ethical considerations of studying smugglers, the violent realities in southern Mexico, and the need to address root causes of migration beyond border enforcement.