Humans of New York (HONY) provides a way for us as
outsiders to take a look into the private thoughts and experiences of strangers
in New York City. This inspiring photo essay, created by a guy named Brandon,
has exploded into a Facebook phenomenon, with some 1,224,282 likes as of...2
seconds ago. How many times a day do we pass strangers whose stories we will
never know? I'm incredibly fond of this project and have been following it for
over a year, because it's simple.
Brandon roams the streets of New
York, writing stories of the inhabitants of New York City using only a
photograph and a caption. Sometimes the photos don't need words, but Brandon
has evolved the project in such a way that makes you think twice about the people
you pass on the street every day. He asks the people he photographs questions
like, "If you could give one piece of advice to a large group of people,
what would it be?" or "What was the happiest moment of your
life?" My personal favorite is, "What's your greatest struggle right
now?" These broad, looming questions turn into some of the most inspiring
responses by the most unassuming people. Homeless men spew their stories of
loss and bankruptcy. Professionals admit to their drug habits. Children smile
as they respond in blatant truth. These people’s answers are awe-inspiring and
wise. Looking at these photos and the stories that go along with them force you
to look at the strangers you see everyday in a different light. You begin
wondering how they would answer the question. You begin wondering how you would
answer the question.
It’s simple. This photo essay has managed to capture the essence of
every single human rights movement that has ever been created (okay, that’s an exaggeration,
but follow with me…). We are all equal. We all have
something important to say. We all have stories to share and wisdom to bestow.
No matter your vocation, your color, your hair color, your religion, or who you
choose to love. HONY cracks open the exterior to shed light on what makes us as
humans so incredibly beautiful. Just
because we are equal doesn’t mean we are the same.
I encourage you all to take a
look at HONY and tune in every now and then. There is a Facebook page, a
website as well as a recently added Instagram account. Brandon uploads several
pictures a day and is dedicated to his work. He often takes up collections to
donate to different organization and projects he learns about while listening
to these people’s stories and is not shy to shed light on delicate subjects. It’s
so beautiful and yet so simple.
Enjoy!
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