Minneapolis photographer’s artwork set up shares message of connection throughout immigration crackdown

As nightfall settles over Minneapolis, one thing sudden seems on the aspect of the YWCA constructing.

Projected excessive above the sidewalk are faces of neighbors — odd folks — every paired with three easy phrases: I Am Human.

The venture comes from photographer and storyteller John Noltner.

“In a divided world, we try to use photography and story to remember what connects us,” mentioned Noltner, the founder and director of the nonprofit A Peace of My Mind.

This new collection for A Peace of My thoughts started throughout what Noltner thought can be downtime in his hometown.

Instead, federal brokers surged into the town for immigration raids. Two U.S. residents have been killed. Communities responded. 

Once once more, Minneapolis was navigating a tough second.

“The question is: What do you do with that hard thing that’s in front of you? And how do you show up for one another?” mentioned Noltner.

He introduced his photograph studio to the YWCA, neighborhood facilities, and singing vigils.

“We showed up where people were already gathered and invited them to be a part of the project,” mentioned Noltner.

We’ve seen our neighborhood converse for itself. A lady recalling a tense encounter at her restaurant put it merely.

“We’re all people. We’re humans,” mentioned Ilse Denisse Aguilar Ortega.

Her phrases now seem, projected throughout the town.

So far, there are 125 portraits and extra to come back.

The title, “I Am Human” got here after cautious consideration.

“We seem to be failing in our ability to see the humanity of those around us, and so at a really fundamental level, I wanted this series to pause and amplify and recognize that humanity that we all share,” mentioned Noltner.

Noltner, who has documented tales from Northern Ireland to Rwanda, finds himself impressed by the resilience he sees.

“I don’t think any of us really expected to be in these circumstances in Minnesota, in the United States, in 2026. But like I always tell my kids, whatever difficult thing is happening, that’s not the end of the story,” mentioned Noltner.

Healing, he says, would not occur shortly.

“I think healing happens through showing up for one another, through rebuilding trust, through making personal connections,” mentioned Noltner.

In a world filled with noise, his photos ask for one thing quiet. A pause. A glance. A reminder that earlier than the rest, we’re all human.

You can see the “I Am Human” portraits being projected outdoors the YWCA on Lake Street on Tuesday and Wednesday from nightfall till 7pm.

For extra info and to view the portraits on-line, click here.

In: