In August 2017, survivors and supporters gathered at Shalem Bridge in Doña Ana, New Mexico to participate in the first-ever “I Am” Series event. The purpose of the project was to give survivors the opportunity to show that victimization didn’t define them, to put faces to the statistics on sexual violence victimization, and to show those who hadn’t come forward yet that a supportive community is out there.

“I Am” Series events are centered around the photoshoot, but also feature survivor-speakers, the chance to meet others in your community, and the work of local photographers. You can view our full gallery of photos, here.

“I Am” Series events are held annually (barring the COVID-19 pandemic) in Las Cruces, New Mexico, but we seek to make participating more accessible by accepting online submissions. Do you want to be included in this project? Read our submission guidelines, here.