Fed up with waiting and distrustful of the authorities, groups of Cuban migrants have resumed their trek on foot through Mexico after the anticipated departure of a new caravan from Tapachula, Chiapas, fell through.
Scattered in smaller groups, they journey along the coastal highway heading north, skillfully dodging immigration checkpoints and enduring the heat, all in pursuit of the opportunity that has eluded them for months.
Failed Caravan Sparks New Individual Journeys
According to a report by Diario del Sur, the caravan that was scheduled for departure on October 30th never materialized, with only six individuals showing up at Bicentennial Park, the usual starting point for these movements, despite an expected turnout of around 600. Nevertheless, the organizational failure didn't hinder many, who chose to continue their journey independently.
Exhaustion and Distrust Among Migrants
Cuban migrant Douglas Brian Velázquez, quoted by Diario del Sur, explained that the caravan did not proceed due to accumulated distrust. Throughout the year, at least seven caravans have been dismantled by Mexican authorities. "Many of us are still recovering from the previous walks," he mentioned.
Velázquez's experience mirrors that of hundreds of Cubans who arrived in Tapachula with the hope of regularizing their status but faced corruption, discrimination, and endless processes with the Comar and the National Institute of Migration (INM).
In October, over a thousand Cubans took part in a caravan that was halted by operations and illness; only half managed to advance past Pijijiapan.
The Struggle to Move Forward
Now, those left behind have chosen to try again, even if it means traveling alone on foot. In Huixtla, they have been seen walking to "La Arrocera," taking the train route to avoid checkpoints and continue their journey toward Mexico City, Saltillo, or Nuevo León, where they hope for better conditions.
Lorena, a Honduran migrant also cited by Diario del Sur, captured the general sentiment: "We are avoiding authorities again, we have no other option since we didn't receive papers or support. In the caravans this year, we were only deceived."
Lorena's testimony echoes among Cubans who have waited months, some over a year, for responses to their refugee or humanitarian visa applications.
Many have reported that paperwork only progresses when bribes are paid to intermediaries or lawyers connected with immigration officials, leaving the impoverished trapped in a cycle of helplessness.
Tapachula: A Symbol of Institutional Neglect
Tapachula, bordering Guatemala, has become emblematic of institutional neglect and migration containment. Thousands live there in precarious conditions, without jobs or access to basic services, stalled by policies aiming to curb the flow northward.
Since September, Cubans have organized assemblies and social media groups to coordinate the caravan that was supposed to depart on October 1st. This mobilization, the largest of the year, was dismantled following INM and National Guard operations, leaving behind stories of exhaustion, illness, and abandonment.
Yet, many decided not to give up. With blistered feet, exhausted bodies, and a dwindling sense of hope, they continue to walk along the coastal highway. They do so not out of optimism but because they have nothing left to lose.
"All we want is to move forward as human beings," a Cuban migrant expressed weeks ago. Her words, now echoed by those resuming their journey, encapsulate the spirit of resilience in people who keep walking, even when the path seems blocked.
Understanding the Cuban Migrant Crisis
Why did the Cuban migrants resume their journey on foot?
The Cuban migrants resumed their journey on foot due to the collapse of an organized caravan and a lack of trust in the authorities. They are determined to continue their journey in search of better opportunities.
What challenges do Cuban migrants face in Tapachula?
In Tapachula, Cuban migrants face corruption, discrimination, and prolonged bureaucratic processes. They often encounter difficulties in regularizing their status and lack access to employment and basic services.