The story behind this image starts early on a Sunday morning in Latin America. As people collectively gather in a Church awaiting service, a young Afro-Carribian boy slowly follows in his ragged wardrobe and crumpled plastic cup. He thoroughly wanders down the church aisles, quietly asking attendants to spare some change – but most people awkwardly ignore him. As the boy nears the end of his tour, an usher notices the pan handler and escorts him towards the exit. With a smile the boy slowly starts exiting, hoping the attention brings forth a contributor. To his disappointment, not one person added anything to his crumpled plastic cup. The only thing he received on his way out were stares.
It was especially difficult to capture this moment since I had to be somewhat discrete. Upon entering the church, I was asked not to take photos - which I had originally plan to honor. However, witnessing everything transpose I couldn’t help taking out the camera from my bag and sneak a few shots. In respect to the church, I won’t disclose it’s name and location.
Shot October 2015