Capturing race and colour in the Dominican Republic
- Text by Juan Veloz
- Photography by Juan Veloz
We always think of the Dominican Republic as a place of paradise and fun. We have to start stripping down the beauty and see the truth that is already in front of us. There is nothing worse than experiencing racism in a place you always thought was pure and peaceful.
Growing up in Brooklyn, New York, I experienced a lot of racism, and many heads turned when I spoke Spanish. People were confused because people of colour don’t tend to be associated with Latinx culture. The saddest part was, much of these feelings were coming from my own people. Being Afro-Latino was mind-boggling to them, and they couldn’t understand the fact that I was a Black man that spoke Spanish.
This photo project was born when I was watching the Dominican news one night with my family. The country’s government passed a law which would see the Haitian residents get deported back to Haiti. This news fueled something in me – I needed to go there, and do something to start a conversation.
While shooting this project, I captured my family members who I hadn’t seen in years, as well as the beautiful landscapes. But I also had to show the truth about my country. I saw a lot of racism and colourism first hand during the trip, and was able to capture the separation of Dominicans and Haitians within the country. (On one occasion, for example, I was photographing a beautiful pregnant Haitian women, and three Dominican men began calling her ‘ugly’ and yelled for me to stop).
On a positive note, I was able to see and spend time with my family, reconnect with my Afro-Latino roots, and capture those beautiful moments. I took a lot of things for granted before coming on this trip. The key to life is happiness and making memories, so I thank my family for letting me capture everyone in their natural space with love and acceptance.
My main point with this project was to show that we’re all one. Ignorance and injustice is real – even in Paradise. Let’s keep this conversation alive.
See more of Juan Veloz’s work on his official website or follow him on Instagram.
Enjoyed this article? Like Huck on Facebook or follow us on Twitter.
You might like
In photos: Black Texas life since emancipation
Kinship & Community — A new photobook and exhibition showcases the rich culture, history and community of African American folks in the Lone Star State, whose existence in the region predates colonial Britain.
Written by: Miss Rosen
Youthful joy & end-of-era poignancy at a London school prom
Leavers — For several years, Lewis Khan documented young people as they celebrated the last of their school days and the completion of their exams. The series is now collated in a new self-published photobook and short film.
Written by: Zoe Whitfield
Harry Gruyaert’s vintage, kaleidoscopic scenes of New York
A Sense of Place — For 50 years, the Belgian photographer and Magnum Photos member has been capturing NYC’s colourful chaos. A new photobook and exhibition showcase his unique, technicolour view of the city.
Written by: Miss Rosen
In the pit at one of the UK’s last stock car & banger speedways
Stock Car Racing Isn’t Dead — Photographer Liam McCarthy spent time in and around the Arlington Raceway’s circuit, capturing the diehard community that keeps the sport alive.
Written by: Isaac Muk
Inside Lower Duck Pond, the nicest town on the internet
/r/HaveWeMet — With a population of 2,500 and no fixed location, the subreddit is a space for roleplaying citizens to solve mysteries, host fictional events and ultimately connect. In an internet that’s often divided and toxic, Vicky Jessop hangs out in one of its most wholesome corners.
Written by: Vicky Jessop
A major Nan Goldin exhibition is coming to London
You Never Did Anything Wrong — Opening at the Hayward Gallery in November, the show will debut a new film from the artist and activist, alongside a slate of recent work.
Written by: Jack Dennison-Thompson
