SHINE A LIGHT

“When I was working in the field I’d bring candles with me. And with the help of my translator I told the people I was photographing that I would illuminate their stories and their plight.

When it was safe for them—and for me – I made portraits with these candles. They knew their images would be seen by you – out in the world. I wanted them to know that we will be bearing witness to them. And that we will do what we can to make a difference in their lives.
There is not a day that goes by that I don’t think of the many beautiful, mistreated people I’ve met.

I hope these images will awaken a force in people who view them. People like you. I hope that force will ignite a fire and that fire will shine a light on slavery. For without that light, the beast of bondage will continue to live in the shadows.”