It’s a hard season in Minneapolis. But Minnesotans are a certain kind of strong. As we’ve seen our friends and neighbors come under pressure, we’ve shown up for one another in big and small ways.

People went to the streets in subzero weather to protest. They delivered groceries to folks afraid to go out in public. They sang songs of resistance and connection. They cooked food for people who were hungry. They volunteered to drive folks to doctor appointments. They made signs and flew flags and said to the most marginalized and vulnerable among us, you are not alone.

They put themselves in harms way.

Minnesotans made some noise. And people in power listened. Not that the work is done. Truth be told, the work is never done. We can always do better. Care for one another more. Love bigger. Show up for one another bolder.

A Peace of My Mind has started a new series of portraits called I am human. A simple body of work to celebrate the beauty and strength of the people who make this place our home. A chance to use our art to stand in community and solidarity with our friends and neighbors. And to let them know they are not alone.

We brought our studio to churches, community centers, colleges, singing vigils, and more. We invited people to get their portrait taken for this public project and to be seen. And for every person I said, “I understand why now might not be the time you want to stand in front of a camera and get your portrait taken. But I also understand why now might be the perfect time.”

I wondered out loud about what to call the series. At first I thought about having all the text in Spanish. Soy humano. Soy humana. Pretty universally recognizable even if your first language isn’t Spanish. Then I thought about using the primary language of each subject for the text. Maybe with English translations. It was a conversation I had with many of the communities I visited and many of the people I photographed. There wasn’t a clear consensus, and then at one community center, I had a conversation with three young leaders and their words stuck

“Who is the audience?” “I know who I am. I know I am human. But there are some people who have forgotten.” “Who are we talking to?” “The people who don’t see my humanity speak English. So talk to them.” “If you want the message to get through to them, talk to them directly.” “If you use Spanish or any other language, they might tune out and think this is not meant for them.”

So, I am human. I see you, Minnesota.

This is a growing collection. Almost 200 portraits so far. We are projecting them in the community for everyone to see. To celebrate the rich and diverse threads of the fabric of this place. Keep showing up for one another, Minnesota. We are better together.