Colombia 2021

In September 2021, I had the very fortunate opportunity to tag along with a friend on a business trip to Bogotá, Colombia. As an American who has only traveled internationally a few times, I found the experience illuminating, insightful, and distressing. To go from Southern California – where masks are rarely worn and vaccines are readily available – to the capitol of Colombia – where masks are always worn and vaccines are not easily acquired – was a staunch reminder of global disparities. It was very difficult to explain to a local Bogotá resident that people in our country refuse to get vaccinated, while her and many people she knows were struggling to acquire vaccinations.
The people that I spoke to in Colombia were welcoming, patient, and proud. They were aware of the problems that their country faced, but they still loved it – understandably so, as the natural surroundings and national parks where awe-inspiring. That being said, there was an undertone of sociopolitical tension in most areas, especially within the city. Corruption exists everywhere at varying levels, but it seems quite blatant in Colombia.
My photos are that of an outsider – a hopefully conscientious tourist. This series is thirty-five of what could be myriad images of a vast, complicated culture and country. I intend to return and build a deeper relationship with Colombia and develop an expanded understanding of its people.