Be The Change: PhotoInitiatives
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Say Their Names "Outrage"
During global tragedy, local trauma isn’t suspended. These griefs are compounded, and our fragile society is pushed beyond its limits. In a moment where we needed examples of hope and empathy or leaders failed. Instead, we were shown continued indifference, hatred, and lack of understanding of the humanity in anyone different. We were all habitually forced to witness the public murders of black bodies. I want to say their names and remember their hearts.
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Front-Line Heroes
COVID-19 is caused by an acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2. As of August 26, 2020, there had been cases of the disease in more than 210 countries or territories across 6 continents. The world suffered a simultaneous loss in a way not felt before. With the United States, Brazil, India, and Russia having the most cases worldwide.
Uncertain about how to handle this world pandemic many countries around the world enforced lockdowns to try to slow the spread of the disease. All countries were responsible for implementing their health measures but these usually involve closing schools, canceling public events, closing borders, and encouraging people to work from home.
The streets became ghost towns and the hospital's war zones. Front-line nurses traveled any distance to aid where needed.
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Ocean Advocacy
This Be The Change photojournalism project is a collaborative effort between the Ionian Arts and Culture Center, Geopark of Kefalonia Ithaca, and the Aquatic Scuba Diving Club to advocate for environmental preservation and historical site conservation in Greece. Through this initiative, I am able to learn about the island's rich history while documenting its natural beauty.
One of the primary goals of this project is to clean up toxic waste from Zarvarti Caves, local beaches, coastlines, and other historic sites. By doing so, we aim to protect the environment and preserve the island's historical significance for future generations.
Through photography and journalism, Be The Change hopes to bring awareness to the importance of environmental conservation and the preservation of historical sites. This project serves as a testament to the power of collaboration and the impact that individuals can have on the world around them.
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Love Thy Neighbor
One of the positive cultural aspects of Sweden that are highlighted in the initiative is its reputation as a haven for displaced people due to life tragedies and circumstances. Through its asylum policies, Sweden has provided refuge for people from different parts of the world, and this is a testament to the country's commitment to promoting diversity and inclusivity.
However, the exhibition also acknowledges that no place is perfect, and Sweden has its unique challenges. Nonetheless, it seeks to highlight the beauty of the country and the cultural pride that its citizens exhibit.
Be The Change highlights the diversity and inclusivity of the country and the significant progress it has made in promoting LGBTQ rights.
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Earthquake Relief Morocco
"Resilience Through Crisis: Humanitarian Food Aid in the Aftermath of Morocco's Earthquake"
In the aftermath of Morocco's earthquake, which struck with a magnitude of 6.4 on the Richter scale, the impact on communities was profound. As a result of this seismic event, a significant portion of the population, estimated at around 1.5 million people, found themselves grappling with immediate and dire circumstances. The tremors not only caused widespread structural damage but also disrupted vital infrastructure, including access to food sources, leaving many without the means to secure their daily sustenance.
Current Initiative 2024
Be The Change: Photo
Finding Stockholm
NYC protest 2020 in response to the murder of George Floyd Photo by: Imani McCray
"Finding Stockholm" emerged from a dire need to escape the life-threatening environment I faced in America. As a black photojournalist, I experienced harrowing abuse from the police while documenting their brutality towards people of color, including myself.
Imani McCray, American Artist, Creator of Be The Change: Photo
The urgency to leave escalated when I witnessed the 2021 January 6th insurrection through my own lens, capturing the chaos and the alarming absence of police intervention.
January 6th insurrection, by Imani McCray
“Finding Stockholm” encapsulates a profound and culturally resonant narrative—a personal odyssey as the first African American in my family since slavery to seek refuge beyond American borders in search of a new home and identity.
This photography exhibition centers on Sweden, renowned for its humanitarian efforts and asylum provision, capturing the essence of this sanctuary for the displaced. The exhibition beautifully portrays the multicultural mosaic crafted by those who have found solace within Sweden's borders. While also offering an exploration of the rich history and experiences of black Swedes in the country.
Rosel Jackson Stern, Swedish Painter
In addition to my narrative, "Finding Stockholm" amplifies the voices of other immigrants and black Swedes who have sought asylum in Sweden, shedding light on their resilience, dreams, and aspirations. These intimate portraits and stories reveal the universal hope for a better life that unites immigrants from diverse backgrounds.
Lorenzo L Kellam , Swedish Artist: American Expat
Be the Change: Magazine
Be the Change: Magazine
Be the Change Magazine…
a photojournalism magazine designed to inspire positive behavioral change in the world – by highlighting the amazing work of dedicated people and organizations working to shape a better future through advocacy and action. Notably, it spotlights conflict within multicultural societies where systemic trauma and its effects remain unremedied.
The magazine is targeted at yearly teens through their late 40s and those without access to museums or art galleries. With its easily digestible text, thought-provoking imagery, and inspirational interviews it’s a global call to action for positive change. I’m currently finding new challenges, inspiring stories, conflicts, and solutions for the continued documentation of Be the Change exhibitions and publications.
Volunteer Your Platform
BTC would love to document your portrait and share your personal message of support during global aid and advocacy efforts!