American Photography 41 Winners

The Suitcase

A series of portrait of men of awaiting decisions regarding their applications for asylum in Ireland. The men told me about their hopes and dreams of starting a new life in Ireland. Why they came to the country and what they wish to contribute to Irish society. The asylum seekers had been living in a makeshift campsite outside the International Protection Office for several months. The Irish State stopped stopped offering accommodation to all male asylum seekers – in contravention of international commitments. With no toilet, showering facilities, the build-up of rubbish, exposure to the cold and lack of toilet and laundry facilities was contributing to the spread of infections, including respiratory illness and scabies. I always like to include a physical symbol of the story in my images. For this I chose a vintage suitcase to signify the journey the men have been on. I entitled this series "The Suitcase".

The Suitcase

A series of portrait of men of awaiting decisions regarding their applications for asylum in Ireland. The men told me about their hopes and dreams of starting a new life in Ireland. Why they came to the country and what they wish to contribute to Irish society. The asylum seekers had been living in a makeshift campsite outside the International Protection Office for several months. The Irish State stopped stopped offering accommodation to all male asylum seekers – in contravention of international commitments. With no toilet, showering facilities, the build-up of rubbish, exposure to the cold and lack of toilet and laundry facilities was contributing to the spread of infections, including respiratory illness and scabies. I always like to include a physical symbol of the story in my images. For this I chose a vintage suitcase to signify the journey the men have been on. I entitled this series "The Suitcase".