artist’s note
On campus, black and brown students are constantly fighting. The want to be seen
and to be heard, is something we strive for. From classrooms to the dining center,
our lights are dimmed by overwhelming echoes of whiteness. The whiteness that
screams you need to work harder to compete, you’re not good enough, and you
don’t belong. A single word doesn’t even have to be said. Yet, the feeling, itself, is
haunting.
Having the opportunity to photograph Sons of Africa quieted those screams for me.
During our two short hours together, that eerie feeling faded away. The laughter
and ease that came with just being together was a feeling reminiscent of home. I
felt safe.
Even when society and our campus treat them as a threat and repeatedly shoots
them down, they still have the courage, strength, and power to get up the next day
and push on. I was honored to photograph the young black and brown men of
Haverford College. I see your style and grace, and I will always highlight that.
Thank you, Sons of Africa, for inviting me to experience your brotherhood through
my camera.
Keep smiling, laughing, protesting, writing, rapping, and just being black/brown…
and unapologetically so.
-Alliyah
ME. MAE. I