Framing the Future and Documenting Dissent
Framing the Future: Documenting Dissent in 2026
Protesters at an anti-DOGE rally in Washington DC
Photography has always been about more than just "taking a picture." It is an act of witness. I’ve written before about why I wanted to create a project about Chinatowns, and now I want to share another ongoing project.
As we move through the early months of 2026, the landscape of American democracy is shifting at a pace that can feel impossible to track. For my project, "Documenting Dissent," I’ve been hitting the streets of Washington, D.C., to document how citizens are navigating a new era of activism and free speech.
The goal isn't just to capture the noise of a protest, but the quiet, intentional details of the people who show up.
The Faces of Conviction
A protester in Washington DC
In a crowd of thousands, it’s the individual expression that tells the real story. In “Fuck Trump” I wanted to capture the sheer energy of personal conviction.
The subject’s t-shirt—a blunt, uncompromising critique of the current administration—serves as a high-contrast symbol of the First Amendment in action. Her smile and "thumbs up" create a jarring, fascinating juxtaposition: a cheerful disposition paired with a radical message. This is the heart of documenting democracy; it’s about the human being behind the slogan.
The Next Generation
Protesters at an anti-DOGE rally in Washington DC
One of the most poignant themes I’ve encountered is the presence of children at these rallies. The second photo captures a child perched on shoulders, holding a sign that reads "RESTORE USAID." This image highlights the specific policy battles defining 2026. Following the deep cuts and restructuring led by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), the shuttering of humanitarian agencies has become a focal point for activists. By framing the child against the vast, clear sky, the photo asks a silent question: What kind of global legacy are we leaving for those who aren't yet old enough to vote?
The Symbols of Efficiency
Finally, the third photo brings us to the steps of the Capitol, the ultimate stage for American political theater. Here, the symbolism is layered.
Protesters in front of the US Capitol
The central sign, "FORK IN THE ROAD," featuring an image of Elon Musk, refers to the ultimatum delivered to federal workers early last year. It’s a literal and metaphorical representation of the choice many have had to make between their careers and the new direction of the federal workforce. With the Capitol dome looming in the background, the image serves as a reminder of the tension between institutional power and individual agency.
Lessons from the Field
Developing this project has taught me three vital things about photographing activism:
Look for the layers: A sign is just cardboard until you frame it against the building it’s trying to influence.
Focus on the eyes: Even behind sunglasses, the set of a jaw or a gesture can tell a story of defiance or hope.
Capture the "Why": Why are people here? Whether it's a specific agency like USAID or a broader ideological stance, your photos should provide context for the history books.
This project is ongoing, and I’ll be following the "Free America Walkouts" scheduled for tomorrow.
A Washington DC Protester