Civil Rights, One Photo at a Time

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While many may believe we are living in a post-racial America, the socioeconomic gridlock found in James Karales’ photos are a reminder of our progress but also the importance of continuing to uphold the constitutional rights of all people—most importantly, those that are marginalized. Karales’ empathy revealed in his photos promote solidarity by adhering to universal themes: love, suffering, happiness, and anger.  He diverges from merely portraying the individuality of people and capturing a person’s haecceity—uniqueness.

The Selma to Montgomery Civil Rights March, 1965

 

New York Times contributor, Maurice Berger, utilized visual journalism to capture Karales message of equality by using photography to pave a way for action and racial harmony. Go to his slideshow to see more of these iconic photos and for information about the man behind the camera.

 

By Stephanie Castillo, Fair Housing Intern