Traditional healers and “sorcerers” have over the years claimed that people with albinism are “ghosts” who never die but merely disappear.
In many parts of East Africa, people with albinism are targeted for their body parts, which some believe hold magical powers and bring good fortune.
Albinism is a genetic condition that causes a deficit in the biosynthesis of melanin, a pigment that colours the skin, hair and eyes.
Chris “banaoroko” White is an aspiring artist. I met him at a theatre close to where I work. He was there for rehearsal for a talent show due the next day. I introduced myself to him as an aspiring photographer and said I’ll love for us to make visual statements together.
He opened up to me about dealing with colorism. “Dealing with stares from birth sounds a bit tough, but you get used to it” he said. We went on to plan a creative shoot which was so fun! I learnt a lot from him.
Here is our visual statement.
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