Migrant influencers share their journeys to the US
Migrants trekking through the dangerous Darién Gap are getting millions of views on social media. Some are even making a career out of being migrant influencers.
You’ll never guess who the newest social media influencers are. They are migrants - making the treacherous trek to the US through South America’s Darien Gap.
The Darien Gap is considered one of the most dangerous places on earth. The 66-mile stretch on the border of Columbia and Panama has no roads. It’s made up of dense jungle, mountains and lots of mud. It’s also rampant with gangs.
But it’s the only land-based way into Central America. And more people are crossing it than ever. 500,000 people from 100 countries hiked through in 2023 alone.
It’s also exploding in popularity on social media. Some migrants documenting the journey are getting millions of views on TikTok and YouTube.
By educating others on the route, they are making it easier for other migrants to navigate, and making the journey more accessible.
The New York Times spoke to Manuel Monterrosa - who in 2022 documented his journey through the Darien Gap on YouTube. But his videos earned him enough money that he moved back to Columbia and now makes his living as a migrant influencer, going back and forth the dangerous Darien gap creating content for millions of viewers.
Social media is also a place where illegal smugglers who help people navigate the jungle can advertise their services - though this content isn’t allowed on platforms and often gets taken down.
The Biden Administration is also working hard to discourage illegal migration by warning of deportation but also reminding people of legal pathways to immigration.
Have you seen videos from migrant influencers? Let us know your thoughts.
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