Story and Photos by MICAH MACKENZIE
In the sun-drenched landscapes of the American South, Micah Mackenzie's lens weaved visual tales of resilience. Hailing from Sumter, SC, a town steeped in history and shadows of adversity, Micah had witnessed firsthand the triumphs and struggles of his community. Armed with a camera and a storyteller's heart, he sought to capture narratives that transcended borders and united cultures.
Drawn by the allure of Cuba's vibrant culture and indomitable spirit, Micah embarked on a transformative odyssey to the enigmatic island. Inspired by echoes of shared histories, he set out to unravel the threads that connected Cuba and the American South in ways he could have never imagined.
Stepping onto Cuban soil, Micah found himself captivated by the rhythms that pulsed through the streets of Havana. Amidst the backdrop of crumbling colonial facades, he encountered faces etched with wisdom beyond their years—faces that mirrored the unyielding strength he had seen in the American South. Here, in the heart of Cuba, Micah felt a sense of familiarity, as if he had stumbled upon reflections of his own community.
Through his lens, Micah endeavored to capture the essence of Cuba's vibrant culture—a tapestry of tenacity woven through time. Each photograph became a portal to an unseen world, revealing the intangible threads of hope and resilience that defined Cuban existence. As he immersed himself in the lives of the Cuban people, Micah uncovered stories of ordinary individuals who had defied adversities with unwavering determination—a narrative strikingly similar to the stories etched in the Southern communities he had known.
Through photography, Micah traced the echoes of salsa rhythms in the American South's soulful melodies, bridging the geographic distance between two seemingly distinct worlds. The warmth of kinship and a shared sense of identity emerged as common threads that united Cuba and the American South in ways that defied borders and boundaries.
The people of Cuba welcomed Micah not merely as a visitor, but as a kindred spirit, embracing him into their lives. In their smiles and gestures, he discovered the heartbeat of a nation that refused to yield, daring to dream of a brighter future amidst the tempest. The Cuban people's resilience resonated deeply with Micah, mirroring the unbreakable spirit of the American South that he had immortalized through his art.
I will see you again CUBA~ THANK YOU!!