Une Communauté inattendue / An Unexpected Community, 2014
Coming from faraway lands, we never thought we would find ourselves in this place: despite our differences in color, language, culture and religion, we can live hopeful lives here now and rediscover the peace that was lost in the hardships of our homeland.
I chose this photo because I feel that waves exude a certain tranquility after they break on the sand. We find ourselves together today like different grains of sand on the beach. Living together gives us the sustenance to carry on despite our problems—much like the waves that continue their perpetual movement—so that we can have hope for our future.
So many organizations bring peace and hope to those who live here in Chicago.
In the online exhibit Picturing a New Life in Chicago, people who were forced to flee their home countries because of war, persecution or violence share photos and inspiring stories about adjusting to a new life here. Some of the photographers came to Chicago through a refugee resettlement program. Others sought political asylum. Learn more in Online Exhibit: Forced Migration Photovoice Project.
