"The original owner of the soil, the man from whom we have taken the country in order that we may make of it a refuge of the world, where all men should be free if not equal, is the only man in it who is not recognized as entitled to the right of a human being.” New York Tribune, 1880.

This photo essay is part of a larger series called, ‘Hearts on the Ground’ discussing the importance of culture, identity and land in Indigenous communities and illustrates how their systematic destruction and erosion have led to epidemic conditions faced in Native communities today - including the highest rates of depression, substance abuse, mental illness and sexual violence of any ethnic group in the country.

more at www.HeartsOnTheGround.com

All proceeds from the sale of these images will go directly towards production costs of the project.Click on image to see sizes and prices.