>> 9 ways Dayton welcomes immigrants
In 2017, local photographer Briana Snyder -- co-owner of Knack Creative -- decided to turn the lens on immigrants in the Dayton community.
>> PHOTOS: See these stunning portraits of Dayton immigrants
We asked her some questions about her project, and here’s what she had to say.
photo by Andrea Belle Studios, LLC
Posted by Briana Snyder Photography on Tuesday, December 29, 2015
Your Dayton Immigrant Portrait Project is directly tied to your work for your Master’s degree. Can you talk more about it?
I wanted to find a way to combine my passions for international politics and the Dayton community. I knew that Welcome Dayton has existed as a City initiative for about 5 years, and was curious to research what successes the program has had in the time. Especially in light of the extremely polarized political climate around the issue of immigration, I thought it would be a fascinating topic to dig into.
Credit: Briana Snyder
Credit: Briana Snyder
Where did you get the inspiration to create portraits of Dayton immigrants?
As a photographer, I always wanted to find a way to incorporate some visual component into my written project. And, as I was interviewing government officials, activists and other community stakeholders for my project, I wanted to find a way to include the perspectives of immigrants/refugees from the wider community. A ‘Humans of NY’-style photo project seemed like a great way to do both of those things.
You talked about interviews you’ve conducted with Melissa Bertolo, Welcome Dayton’s program coordinator. Can you tell us more about Welcome Dayton, and what drew you to it?
I don't think many Daytonians know how exceptional Welcome Dayton is! The plan was one of the first of these types of plans adopted in the country and has served as the model for many other cities who have wanted to establish themselves as welcoming communities. It was an exceptionally organic process, led by community members and organizations who were passionate about this issue and then adopted by the City. More information/an interview with Melissa from Welcoming America is here.
Credit: Briana Snyder
Credit: Briana Snyder
What’s one of the most stunning things you’ve learned from Dayton immigrants, or about the immigrant experience in Dayton?
Immigrants who first move from their home country to other cities across the United States know of Dayton to be a welcoming community, so our city has been a destination for them to move to.
Several people mentioned that there has been a heightened sense of concern following the 2016 election, since there is such uncertainty about what the Trump administration will do in regards to immigration policy. Despite the hyper-partisan rhetoric and uncertainty, though, they have told me that Dayton does feel exceptionally open and embracing of diversity and difference compared to other communities they have experienced, and they are glad to call Dayton home.
Credit: Briana Snyder
Credit: Briana Snyder
Can you tell me more about the upcoming Welcome Dayton fundraiser?
Part of the initial idea for this project was to be able to display the images at the One City. Many People, Many Voices fundraiser event Thursday. We plan to display some (of the portraits) there, but then continue the project indefinitely.
I'd love to include as many diverse experiences and voices possible, especially to include individuals who aren't already connected to Welcome Dayton. Anyone interested in being involved can email hello@knackforsubstance.com, and we can schedule a portrait session.
>> See more photos from the Dayton Immigrant Portrait Project here
Want to go?
WHAT: One City. Many People, Many Voices
WHEN: 5:30-8 p.m. Thursday, May 11
WHERE: Montgomery County Fair & Fairgrounds, 1043 S. Main St., Dayton
COST: $100/ticket; buy tickets here
INFO: www.welcomedayton.org
About the Author