Just recently, we’ve seen events unfold in the Middle East between Iran and the US that has captivated the world, spreading fear and concern on both sides. Tension and war has existed between the two countries for decades and has escalated recently with tit-for-tat strikes starting with an airstrike on an Iraqi Military base which killed to American contractors. This eventually led to a retaliation strike by the US in which Iranian militia groups responded by attacking US Embassy on New Years Eve. The situation became even more violent and direct when Trump ordered the attack top Iranian commander, Maj. Gen. Qassim Suleimani. This is of course a critical decision that may lead the US into war with Iran, all without a clear motive or long-term plan presented.
This sparked outcry from anti-war supporters in the US calling for a cease to seemingly senseless violence taking place in the middle-east which has now prompted a mobilization of US troops in preparation for battle. Throughout the nation groups marched in unison expressing their frustrations with the White House, calling it a display of imperialism and an excuse to give importance to an impeached president.
I followed this group on a misty Saturday morning, four days into the new decade, as they gathered in Times Square chanting and slowly marching towards downtown. I saw a multitude of other photographers and bystanders taking photographs and even chanting alongside the marchers. I stayed ahead trying my best to capture a good shot of those leading, which was difficult based on the amount of police officers standing by with their cluster of zip-ties at the ready.
What particularly interested me was a mother and child at the very from of the march. The mother, pushing her baby in the stroller while also chanting and walking with such confidence seemed to be symbol for what is at stake in war. Aside from economic costs, the costs bloodshed and turmoil families on both sides face is overwhelming to even think about. I didn’t get a chance to talk to the mother. I almost felt that her mysteriousness allowed that symbol to form in a powerful way for myself to ponder on.
In the crowd I also noticed a group of Filipino migrant workers who were holding their signs in Tagalog and chanting just as loud as anyone else. Seeing that I’m Filipino myself, I felt drawn to these men and women who looked like my own family. With that, and the combination of the mother and child, I was almost propelled to drop my camera and join! Of course I didn’t, but the sight of all of this was just more motivation to capture these moments in the best way I can.