A Journey to San Francisco

A year ago, I embarked on a transformative journey from Long Beach to San Francisco, driven by a commitment to document the lives of Latinx communities. As a photojournalist with El Tecolote, part of the Report for America and CatchLight Local fellowship, I have immersed myself in one of the most culturally diverse cities in the world.

Documenting Cultural Richness in the Mission District

The Mission District, home to El Tecolote’s newsroom, has become a second home for me. The local Latinx community hosts a variety of events, such as

• Día de los Muertos
• Carnaval
• Lowrider shows

Moreover, art walks and gallery openings frequently feature local talent, showcasing the vibrant cultural heritage that defines this neighborhood.

The Impact of Gentrification

Despite the significant contributions of Latinx individuals to the Mission District’s identity, they face ongoing challenges. Currently, they comprise about 12% of San Francisco’s population, yet their presence remains strong in neighborhoods such as the Excelsior and Tenderloin. Many Latinx workers commute long distances from the East Bay to work in various sectors, including restaurants and construction.

A Community-Centric Approach to Photojournalism

My methodology diverges from traditional journalism by fostering relationships within the community I document. At El Tecolote, our priority is to approach storytelling with both empathy and rigor. Rather than maintaining a distance, I strive to build trust and ensure authentic representation in my photographs.

Creating and nurturing trust is vital, particularly while working with vulnerable communities. This engagement often involves frequent visits and conversations that go beyond capturing images.

Challenges and Contributions of Underserved Communities

This year, my focus has included documenting the lives of residents in RV communities and street vendors—two groups that face stigma and legislative challenges due to urban development and public safety initiatives. I emphasize the familial bonds and resilience within these communities, countering pervasive negative narratives.

Artistic Practices in Photography

Beyond photojournalism, photography is an integral part of my artistic practice. Working with analog film requires patience and offers a unique perspective. By engaging with community darkrooms like Photo Laundry, I immerse myself in traditional photographic processes.

My film work during the Carnaval festival allowed me to capture moments of joy and celebration among diverse cultures, reinforcing the notion that Latinx communities embody both struggle and resilience.

Visual Storytelling Beyond Pain

It is critical to also highlight the positive aspects of Latinx identity. Photography provides a medium to document the diverse experiences, from festive celebrations to the realities of daily life, thereby upholding the dignity of those depicted in my work. The images I cherish reflect this balance between the celebration of life and acknowledgment of ongoing challenges.