Let’s Be Better Humans
We came across this article on Uplift.com and had to share it, for it is a humble reminder that we all belong to one human race. The article and video below details the work of Jon Linton, a photographer, who wished to help those less fortunate in homeless communities. Read on for more information about the “I Have a Name” photography project and the “Let’s Be Better Humans” message from Jon Linton.
“We all strive for purpose and understanding, to hear and to be heard, to see and to be seen, to leave this world a better place than we found it.”
– Jon Linton
Documenting the homeless
Let’s Be Better Humans is a love-in-action project incepted by photographer Jon Linton out of his desire to help those less fortunate. Jon’s involvement with homeless communities started in 2007 with a photographic project documenting the homeless on the streets of Phoenix, Arizona. As Jon began talking to the people living on the streets, he was deeply touched by their stories. One experience in particular opened his heart as a man wept when Jon asked his name; it had been so long since anyone had shown enough interest to care. At that moment, Jon decided to call his photographic project ‘I Have a Name‘ as an attempt to bring humanity to those less fortunate.
After exhibiting ‘I Have a Name’ across America, Jon had decided to take direct action by founding ‘Let’s Be Better Humans’, a project that directly supports the return of dignity to those in need. Let’s Be Better Humans was gifted the “Magic Bus”, which Jon also calls a rolling piece of humanity as a way to support those living on the streets directly. The bus is used weekly to deliver food, water, clothing, and other essential items to the less fortunate in Arizona and California and other parts of the western United States.
Seeking change
Let’s Be Better Human’s is both a project and a movement asking everyone to join hand-in-hand and work tirelessly to give voice to the downtrodden and silenced.
As well as supporting the homeless, Let’s Be Better Humans also participates in peaceful actions against deportation, bigotry and isolationism. It is, after all, many of those people marginalised by our broader society that become homeless. In this light, Let’s Be Better Humans stands proudly with partners & friends from Planned Parenthood, the LGBTQ, Native American, Muslim and communities from every race, creed and colour. Jon’s also believes in supporting campaigns-in-compassion that embrace the idea of ‘bridges over walls’ and graciously advocates for America’s neighbours across the southern border.
The Let’s Be Better Humans message is a simple but profound statement that inspires, motivates, and produces change. Let’s Be Better Humans is a reminder that we exist for one another and can make a difference and help bring a return to human dignity. In short, we are a revolution in love and humanity. Together we can make a difference.
This article and all images were sourced with thanks from Uplift.love
