Homeless encampment — Photo, Really not worth archiving

A small suitcase, blankets, and a sleeping bag lie next to a loading dock.

In the nearly six years I've been taking photos for this blog, I have never, ever, photographed homeless people or their make-shift shelters. I guess I felt it would be exploitative. But the day I took this photo the Times had run an article on day laborers driven into homelessness by lack of work. I was struck by their continued sense of dignity, and I felt guilty that I haven't reminded myself, frequently enough, that they retain it. At this encampment by a loading dock I saw empty cans of Hormel chili, but I most definitely did not see any beer cans or liquor bottles. Whoever was here seemed to know their priorities. Bond Street. Gowanus, Brooklyn.

Me: Frank Lynch

Email:
frank dot lynch2 at verizon dot net