Heather Graham hits the slopes with boyfriend John de Neufville in Wyoming

In the context of increasing dangers faced by migrants in Mexico, UCLA professor Jason De León conducted an extensive field study over seven years focused on the lives of smugglers. Through his experiences, De León discovered that the portrayal of smugglers in the media is often oversimplified and misleading. Instead of being part of organized crime networks, many smugglers operate within precarious and complex social environments where motivations can range from economic necessity to community solidarity. De León's interactions, especially with individuals like Juan Roberto Paredes, highlighted the moral ambiguity and desperation that color human smuggling, painting a broader narrative of survival and human struggle. The surge in dangerous conditions for migrants, especially those from countries like Venezuela and Haiti, has intensified the challenges faced in their journey to the United States. De León noted that corruption among immigration agents and the increasing presence of cartels complicate these undertakings. As new cartels exploit the human smuggling industry, they increase risks for both migrants and smugglers alike. De León emphasizes that this situation is deeply intertwined with the broader socio-political landscape, where the demand for labor in the U.S. continues to propel the smuggling economy. De León's forthcoming book, titled 'Soldiers and Kings: Survival and Hope in the World of Human Smuggling', aims to shed light on these nuances. His research underscores the importance of distinguishing between smuggling and human trafficking, explaining that while trafficking involves coercion and exploitation, smuggling is often a voluntary arrangement driven by migrants seeking better opportunities. His findings challenge popular narratives and compel readers to regard smugglers with a more nuanced perspective. The complexities of human smuggling are further compounded in the current climate of political rhetoric surrounding immigration in the U.S., particularly noting how politicians leverage fears surrounding smuggling for their agendas. De León argues that understanding the real-life implications of these operations is crucial for devising effective policies that address the needs of migrants, rather than simply vilifying those who facilitate their movements. The rise in danger for migrants signals an urgent need for awareness, empathy, and informed dialogue around the issues at hand.