New Photography Book “Portraits of Struggle” Documents 50 Years of Global Movements for Justice

For Immediate Release: August 22, 2024

New York- Today, award-winning photojournalist and documentary photographer Orin Langelle released his highly anticipated photo book, Portraits of Struggle.” Spanning over five decades and six continents, Langelle’s book showcases a powerful collection of images that capture struggles by Indigenous Peoples, front-line communities, anti-war veterans, activists and others across the globe standing up to demand justice.

Langelle’s approach as a concerned photographer is rooted in respect and understanding for those involved in the struggles, including their right to say no. His work intends to shed light on the injustices faced by communities worldwide, emphasizing the need for change. As Langelle explains, “this approach to my photography has enabled me to garner the trust of many of the subjects I have documented, allowing me access that would not have been possible otherwise. In this way, I have been able to expose truth that is so often hidden.”

“Portraits of Struggle” has already garnered praise from activists, academics, and fellow artists. Nnimmo Bassey, poet and Executive Director of the Health of Mother Earth Foundation (HOMEF) in Nigeria, states,  “This book is a treasure. The photos are so powerful. They demand action and are not to be viewed casually. And yet there is beauty lurking on the edges of each shot.”  

Mary Lou Malig, Policy Director for Global Forest Coalition (Bolivia) writes, “Orin Langelle’s photographs are not only able to capture moments in the history of resistance, the images are also able to express emotion, tell a story and involve the viewer into wanting to know more.  This book is a stunning visual telling of several historical moments of peoples’ struggles through years and across continents.” 

Langelle’s long and dedicated career began with his mentorship under photographer Cornell Capa. Inspired by Capa’s credo of being a Concerned Photographer, Langelle uses his work to highlight the challenges our world faces and the urgent need for healing and correction. Rachel Elizabeth Seed, documentary filmmaker and goddaughter of Cornell Capa, commends Langelle’s efforts, stating, “From the front lines of key moments of struggle in modern human history, Langelle sensitively portrays his subjects in an effort to bring light to the vital issues of our times, carrying on in Capa’s humanist tradition.”

Brian Tokar, author and lifelong activist, faculty and board member of the Institute for Social Ecology says, “Orin Langelle is our generation’s finest visual chronicler of social movements. From US political convention protests through the rise of the global justice movement and Indigenous struggles throughout the hemisphere, Orin has always been on the scene with his keen eye for the people and experiences that shape the politics of the moment.” Tokar describes “Portraits of Struggle” as a must-have for anyone interested in the evolution and sustainability of social movements.

Published by Global Justice Ecology Project (GJEP) on their 20th anniversary, “Portraits of Struggle” is a testament to Langelle’s commitment to documenting the fight for justice worldwide. 

To learn more about Orin Langelle’s “Portraits of Struggle” and to order a copy, visit Langelle Photography’s website: https://langellephoto.org

Portraits of Struggle Trailer

Press copies available for review contact anne@globaljusticeecology.org

For more information contact Steve Taylor

Steve@globaljusticeecology.org

+1 314 210 1322

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