This webinar highlights the theory and methods of isotopic analysis to explain how it can be used to assist in the identification of human remains for undocumented border crossers who do not survive the journey between Mexico and the United States.
Saskia Ammer wrote the AAFS HHRRC grant that funded this project and was fortunate to be able to work with the Pima County Office of the Medical Examiner, volunteer with the Colibrí Center of Human Rights and coordinate with approximately one hundred people donated hair samples in Mexico for this project. While the US-Mexico border is a much-discussed topic, the fate of the undocumented border crossers who do not survive the journey through this rough terrain is rarely the subject of conversation. This presentation will conclude with a brief discussion of the implications of this type of work and how it can be further advanced.
Detailed Learning Objectives:
- Understanding the role of isotope analysis in forensic anthropology and the implication in identification efforts of unidentified individuals.
- Illustrating the importance of a collaborative approach and how each entity furthers the identification process.
- Discussing the challenges faced in isotope analysis and in the identification effort of undocumented border crossers.