Francisco Javier Lopez Morales. Guerrero, México. Santa Muerte neckless. “I’m looking for asylum due to the violence in my town. My friend in Guerrero gave me this Santa Muerte.”
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“When I put it over my chest, I felt it heavy I said to my friend, and he told me it had power. I have been saving it for you he said. This image is protecting me and will help me to cross. I have an appointment soon. That’s why is so important for me.”
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Dacia Evelin, Michoacán, México. Backpack. “Cartels were fighting for territory, you can imagine why we left the town” says Marisol Espino mother of Dacia. They left their country in December 2022, they are seeking asylum in The United States.
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“She brought her backpack, she loves studying and school, she’s really good at math thats why she didn’t want to leave her bag behind.
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The Most Valuable Possessions and Thoughts of Asylum Seekers from Mexico, Central, and South America” takes relevance in the context of migration at the northern border with Mexico, which has been a significant issue in recent years.
The northern border with Mexico has seen a surge in asylum seekers from various countries in Central and South America, fleeing violence, poverty, and persecution. Many of these individuals embark on perilous journeys in search of safety and a better life in the United States. Tijuana, being a major border city, has become a critical transit point for these asylum seekers, where they often find themselves waiting for their asylum processes to be heard.
The portrait series delves into the experiences of these asylum seekers. Through interviews and pictures, the photographer aims to shed light on the valuable objects and personal sentiments that accompany these individuals on their challenging journey.
Rosaily 11 years old from Honduras. Plastic doll. Her mother bought it in a store in the city of Monterrey, Mexico.
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“She’s always carrying the doll from side to side, she won’t left her, makes her feel secure”. her mom said.
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Alejandro Enrique Eduardo Perez, 36, from Nicaragua. Cellphone tools. “I help immigrants to repair their cell phones. I charge a fair price of around 200 to 300 cordobas (Nicaragua coins).”
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“I came up with the idea of publishing myself on Facebook, then people started looking for me for this job. People from the shelter are the ones I charge the less because are ones I could help the most. These are the most precious objects I have at least until my asylum process is advanced.
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Jesus Velazquez Guerrero, Mexico. Saints and picture of loved ones. “My dad and grandmother died six years ago, I left my sister behind in the town.”
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“Those are the things that I can get in my wallet and that I’m attached to. I felt that they came along with me. I think they are always in the sky watching me and protecting me so that I have a safe trip.”
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Family photos, often treasured and carefully protected, serve as a tangible connection to their loved ones left behind. These images encapsulate the memories of happier times, providing a source of strength and hope during the uncertainty of migration. Religious symbols and Saints hold deep spiritual significance, providing comfort and solace in times of difficulty.
Asylum seekers’ stories often revolve around their hopes and dreams for a better future in the United States. Each object they carry symbolizes a piece of their identity, culture, and history, reminding them of the resilience and determination that fuels their pursuit of safety and security.
Nayr Celama Godoy, Honduras, 24 years old. Flag and Lempira. “We are indigenous from Honduras, and I feel proud of having the flag of my country with me.”
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“When I look at it I feel close to home, and when I hold the lempira I feel that I’m in my country.”
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Dalelys, 41, Honduras. Ring. “I was in Tapachula, Chiapas when he gave it to me, I felt so happy since no-one had gave me something that beautiful.”
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“Now my boyfriend is in U.S. This always reminds me of him.”
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Selina Catalan Flores, Guerrero, Mexico. Bag. “My husband was taken away six years ago, and we fear the same thing will happen to us. In December 2016, he died. They took him away and kept him working, they told us that he died of brain cancer, but that is a lie. The people who took him away killed him.”
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“I Brought my bag, which was a gift from my sister who lives in the U.S.. This is what I have left since other objects that my husband gave me were stolen in my hometown.”
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By highlighting the Most Valuable Possessions and Thoughts of Asylum Seekers from Mexico, Central, and South America, this project aims to bridge the gap between “us” and “them,” fostering understanding and compassion for those seeking a new beginning in the face of adversity.
In conclusion, the portrait series not only showcases the objects but also serves as a powerful testament to the human spirit and the universal desire for a better life. As the world grapples with the complexities of migration, this project invites us to reflect on the shared humanity that binds us all, emphasizing the importance of empathy and support for those in search of safety and a brighter future.
Diana Elizabeth, 27 Guerrero, Mexico. Tattoo. “This is the name of my brother who got killed.”
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“I saw how he died. War in our town has been declared, that’s why we are in the shelter.”
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Kelly Venezuela. Stuffed animals and doll. “I’m Venezuelan but we come from Peru.”
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“She loves her doll. A girl that we used to babysit in Tapachula gave her doll to my daughter. They where close friends. She carries her doll everywhere”, said Andrea Oquendol, Kelly’s mother.
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Bornas, Honduras. Chain. “This chain had something else that was pending from it. I just lost it on my way.”
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“I want a better life for my family. That’s why I’m here—I’m always with this chain.”
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Evelin Carina, Guerrero, Mexico. Red Shoes. “I used to model in my town for photographers and jewel catalogs. I brought my favorite shoes since I want to show that I am proud to be from Guerrero, this is huaraches that a friend of mine shared with me.”
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“My family and I left a few days ago, and we are just waiting to see what’s happening next. We left as many families do due to the violence that is happening.”
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Noemi, Guerrero Mexico. Bracelet. “My mom Eustolia gave me this bracelet. This is so important for me because it reminds me of my mother, she takes care of us always.”
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“I came with my brothers and mom, my dad left home 2 years ago. That’s why we are here.”
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***
Bio
Emilio Espejel is a Mexican photojournalist currently based in Asia, with a strong focus on migration, human rights, portraiture, security, and travel journalism.
His work has been featured in publications such as The Guardian, Associated Press, National Geographic, El País, and others.
To embark on a visual journey into Emilio’s world and experience his remarkable photography, you can explore his Instagram profile.
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