The camp for asylum seekers and migrants in Matamoros, Mexico, is expanding daily, from the street at the foot of the International Bridge, to the banks of the Rio Bravo. Photo; Sean Hawkey
Sean Hawkey is a documentary photographer whose work has been published in The New York Times and shown in the United Nations. He spends his time traveling around the world to capture sights unseen and share stories untold. Recently he traveled to document what’s happening at the U.S.-Mexico border and the essential work border shelters that partner with CWS are doing to support asylum-seekers. Next Thursday, November 7th, the world will get a chance to see those pictures at the Museum of Chinese in America for Church World Service’s annual Benefit for Change.
A U.S. observation tower near the Rio Bravo. Photo: Sean Hawkey
‘Hundreds, possibly thousands of asylum seekers have been abandoned to their luck on the Mexican side of the border while they wait for their cases to be heard in the US’, wrote Sean when describing one of the photos he took at the border. ‘ Most are sleeping in the street and washing in the river.’
Sean’s photography shows a reality in which lives are lost, children are sleeping on the street, and the vulnerable are denied basic human rights. It also shows a reality of resilience, strength, and hope for belonging that extends beyond borders.
Belonging beyond borders means fundamental human rights and dignity for all.
Belonging beyond borders means that those fleeing persecution and violence should be offered refuge and the opportunity to find a new home.
Belonging beyond borders means that no child should be stripped of the opportunity to live a fulfilling childhood, freely and with their family.
Sean’s photographs will be for sale, and proceeds will go towards supporting asylum-seekers. We hope you will join us.