Flags, Food and Faith is a collection of photographs made primarily in Chicago's South and West side neighborhoods that focuses on Black and Latino-owned small businesses.  Utilizing environmental portraits and photographs of interior spaces, my images highlight the economic and social contributions of small businesses in our underserved neighborhoods.  Based on data collected by the city of Chicago for the 2023 Citywide Plan, a clear disparity in business ownership exists across racial groups.  Black residents are 29% of the population yet own only 4% of businesses. Latinos are 30% of the population and own just 9% of the businesses across the city.  This project seeks to honor the businesses that do exist, their owners and the people who keep them running, while also creating a social contract with the city of Chicago. Data has been collected, disparities have been identified, and communities have been consulted. Now work needs to be done. 

Join us for a presentation of this public artwork with Jonathan Michael Castillo, free books, and book signing.  The first 50 attendees will receive a complimentary copy of Flags, Food, and Faith and will have the option to have it signed by the artist. 

Project funding provided by the Chicago Departments of Cultural Affairs & Special Events and Planning & Development as part of the 2023 Citywide Plan.

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