“YET WE LIVE, STRIVE, AND SUCCEED”

West Louisville Photovoice Project

You are about to view footage from St. Louis (MO) and West Louisville (KY) community members who chose to have their lived experiences displayed through personal photographs. Pictures from St. Louis were taken in November 2014 during the Ferguson protests that were triggered by the no-indictment decision for the police officer who killed Mike Brown; pictures from Louisville were captured between Summer 2015 and Spring 2016. As you look at the photos, also pay close attention to the stories: Genuine passion. Deep reflection. Candid concern for aspects of justice, safety, hope, and racial equity. Together, these pictures and words characterize real life situations that impact ALL of us in some way; unfortunately, SOME of us cannot easily escape the consequences that are attached to certain social phenomena such as being born into poverty, having dark skin, or living in a certain zip code. Since photography and dialogue have resulted in positive changes in communities around the world, this exhibit is an effort to give voice to issues—both old and new—so that we can generate fresh ideas, new partnerships, and solutions that translate to community improvement.

The

University of Louisville School of Public Health and Information Sciences’ Office of Public Health Practice would like to thank:

Photovoice participants for their long-term participation and contributions to community improvement

The Kentucky Center for African American Heritage for hosting the exhibit

IDEAS xLab for the exhibit curation