CONTEXT
In 2021, the far-right government of Iván Duque and his Finance Minister, Alberto Carrasquilla, sparked a critical moment in Colombia with the proposal of a tax reform. This measure, intended to impose taxes on essential goods, exacerbated the already existing economic challenges for the Colombian population amidst the COVID-19 crisis. Bogotá, the capital of this country, and Soacha, a strategic town next to it, became one of the main stages where the largest social mobilization in modern Colombian history took place.
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This is a photojournalist project which seeks an approach to the different human expressions within the framework of the National Strike in Colombia between April, May, and June 2021, due to corrupt political measures of the far-right government amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.
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1st Ed.
We The People
We The People
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What began as a protest against the tax reform quickly evolved into a broader demonstration of discontent over a range of structural issues in Colombia, including economic inequality, police violence, corruption, and limited access to basic services such as education and healthcare.
As a consecuence of desinformation of police abuse actions, people in the streets began to break the fear towards authorities and conveyed strong messages that became evident to the public eye, including their own.
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2nd Ed.
The Lawless Night
(One year ago)
The Lawless Night
(One year ago)
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On September 8, 2020, amid the pandemic lockdown, a series of burnings broke out at the CAIs (Immediate Attention Centers) of the Colombian National Police, as a result of widespread outrage sparked by the brutal murder of a citizen named Javier Ordoñez at the hands of the police, whose recording went viral on the internet, media outlets, and primarily social networks.
After 9 hours of intense clashes between protesters and local police, the latter were finally cornered by the outraged citizenry. In response, members of the ESMAD (Mobile Anti-Riot Squad) initiated a fierce attack with tear gas and stun bombs until they managed to disperse the protesters.
3rd Ed.
Hands That Feed
Hands That Feed
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During the protests in Colombia, a remarkable act of humanity and solidarity emerged amidst the chaos and turmoil. Instead of allowing conflict and tension to completely dominate the streets, some individuals organized to support the protesters by providing food through community kitchens.
These community kitchens became symbols of unity and peaceful resistance amid the demonstrations. Groups of volunteers gathered to cook and distribute meals to the protesters and anyone in need, regardless of their political affiliation or economic status.
These community kitchens not only provided basic nutrition to those participating in the protests but also created a space where the community could come together, share experiences, and strengthen bonds.
The method of community kitchens demonstrated the importance of solidarity and mutual support in times of crisis. It was a powerful reminder that even in the face of adversity, people can come together to care for and protect one another. Furthermore, these actions also highlighted the creativity and resilience of the Colombian people in seeking practical and peaceful solutions to the challenges they faced. Ultimately, the community kitchens not only provided physical nourishment but also nourished the spirit of solidarity and hope throughout the nation.
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4th Ed.
Here We Are, Here We Stand
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After 30 days of protests in the streets of the main cities of the country, weariness, economic strain, and uncertainty were hitting harder every day. However, Colombians, motivated by the collective experience that was certainly yielding results in Iván Duque's repressive politics, kept them standing.
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Uprinsing Souls Part 1
Uprinsing Souls Part 1
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