The Spark

the Voice of
The Communist League of Revolutionary Workers–Internationalist

“The emancipation of the working class will only be achieved by the working class itself.”
— Karl Marx

Thirteen Undocumented Migrants Dead

Mar 15, 2021

Ten miles north of the U.S. border in California, an SUV carrying 25 migrants was T-boned by a big rig. Nine is the occupancy permitted for this vehicle. So, thirteen died. The ages of the passengers ranged from 15 to 53 years old. These undocumented immigrants were making the crossing into the U.S. from Mexico and Central America.

Vehicles that transport undocumented migrants under similar circumstances are often dubbed “coffins on wheels,” because of how dangerous they are.

Every year, hundreds die making their way into the U.S. They are propelled to flee because of the barbaric conditions in countries under U.S. domination. Large corporations have bled this region dry, only leaving behind mass unemployment, poverty, and gang violence for the population.

Once in the U.S., low-paid, undocumented workers make up an important essential layer of the working class. They staff critical industries such as manufacturing production, agriculture, meat-packing, and construction. They work in health care, helping to take care of the sick suffering from the pandemic. The bosses take advantage of their vulnerable position, forcing them to work for less pay and under worse conditions. The bosses impose these divisions on the working class.

However, we are one working class regardless of legal status. When workers begin to fight back, the same courageous and brave qualities shown by these undocumented workers will shine in the fight against the capitalist class who exploit us all.