Lilian seemed incredibly comfortable with the camera, she seemed to forget our presence.  Obviously we couldn't circum our position as filmmakers, or our privilege. Two middle-class men captivated by a romantic vision of the working class. One, the son of a Yugoslav migrant mother in Germany, intrigued by questions surrounding migration. And, a Brazilian man, great-grandson of Maroons, interested in the identities of black people in the Americas.

In the caravan, one reveals themselves through the choices they make, how they connect with others and how they deal with fear and anxiety. Lilian got to know us through our actions whilst allowing us to document hers. As Lilian warmed to us her character unfolded, but Lilian chose the moments she shared. It was these moments that allowed us to document a complex portrait of female migration; a narrative that does not conform to simple storylines but depicts different facets of Lilian’s journey.

The Northern Triangle of Central America; El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras are considered some of the most dangerous places on earth. The situation there is driving unprecedented levels of migration. Refugees that arrive at the US-border are fleeing horrific conditions, that are in part, the results of US interventions in their homelands.

Women often bear the burden of violence in multiple ways. Domestic violence, is a significant and often overlooked factor in the migration crisis. Guatemala, where our protagonist Lilian is from, ranks third for femicides globally. A toxic mix of male domination, and a lack of education and material wealth creates pressures that can only be escaped by leaving. Migrants pin their hopes on a new life in the United States, but as they journey to the North, many women are beaten, raped, and too often, killed. Especially for women travelling with children, the migrant caravans are their best chance to reach the US safely.
After the US threatened Mexico with tariffs, the Mexican government began the militarization of borders and a crackdown on “illegal” migration. The regular caravans were brought to a halt. Now, human trafficking is increasing and smugglers are the only option, which women like Lilian cannot afford.