The Tarahumara make for striking photos when you are traveling in the Copper Canyon area, but they also evoke some real ambivilence. Exceedingly young mothers appear to be toting babies, children of three or under are pressed into service to sell tourist goods, and the line between begging and photo-op shilling on the steps of the Chihuahua Cathedral is razor thin. We were consistently told that the Tarahumara do not wish to change their ancient ways, but their overall poverty and lack of educational opportunity are also abundantly clear. One has to believe that the truth is not quite so clear cut. My pictures show some joy but more often than not the expressions are sad or distant.
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