Riding 'The Beast' Across the Length of Mexico to the US Border Wilson Sayre - WLRN Public Radio
go to original June 5, 2014

There’s a network of freight trains that runs the length of Mexico, from its southernmost border with Guatemala north to the United States. In addition to grain, corn or scrap metal, these trains are carrying an increasing number of undocumented immigrants whose aim is to cross into the U.S.

And despite the many deadly challenges it poses, more and more children — both with adults and alone — have been making the risky journey. That prompted President Obama this week to warn of “an urgent humanitarian situation.”

These aren’t passenger trains; there are no panoramic windows, seats, or even a roof to guard from sun or rain. People call the train La Bestia or The Beast. Some call it the Death Train.

It’s estimated that up to half a million migrants now ride The Beast each year, sitting back-to-back along the spine of the train cars, trying not to get knocked off their roof-top perch.

“They’re just packed,” says photojournalist Keith Dannemiller, who has lived in Mexico for the better part of three decades. “There’s not much room for anyone else to get on board by the time the train pulls out.”

Read the rest at NEPR.net

Photo: Keith Dannemiller

The founder of Hermanos en el Camino is Alejandro Solalinde, a Catholic priest, who protects migrants against criminal organizations. (Amnesty International - Suomen Osasto)

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