Race relations in the United States, throughout many generations, have always been a focus of controversy and great emotion. Specifically, the ever-present tension between whites and African-American citizens has always been relevant. Some argue that this discrepancy will never vanish, while others are determined to eliminate it from our nation’s agenda altogether. As this barrier becomes increasingly concerning in today’s society, one cannot help but to compare our current state to that of the civil rights movement from 1954 to 1968. One photo in particular captures more than words can ever express. It truly summarizes and presents the tense divide between races over half a century ago. Multiple perspectives are offered in this image, bringing to light the multitude of emotions that may have been present in that moment. These emotions: fear, passion, love, hate, unity, and division, can all be felt when analyzing this visual text. As a result, the viewer looks for ways to connect or relate to this photo in order to draw its complete message.

One of the first entities that must be considered is the target audience. To whom was this visual text directed? One can include, that even after so many years, this photo still holds its relevancy. Thus, the still-present popularity and significance of this photo could indeed prove that the image was intended for the public. What is uncertain, however, is who exactly produced this photograph. As the viewer begins to rewind through the decades, more questions are created than answers. Was the photo taken by media personnel as a means of reporting? Was it taken from the camera of a bystander, looking to capture a moment that would live throughout history? Ultimately, each perspective comes with a variant meaning, and it is up to the viewer to interpret such points of view. Until the reader can place his/her self in the position of the photographer, the purpose of this photograph is kept waiting to be discovered.

As the viewer dives deeper into the substance of the image, multiple symbols may be derived. Immediately, the main focus of the image is apparent. On the left side, there is a “team” of one color, one uniform. On the other side, is a team of the opposite color. Even more so, these two “teams” could not look any different when compared to each other. One side has all the power and protection in the world, threatening to engage with their counterparts, while the other is standing vulnerable but firm. The reader can feel the tension and hostility derived by the looks and body language of both parties. One can infer the presence of fear on both sides, although neither dare to reveal such fear. What is most significant, however, is the literal and physical divide in the image. What separates the opposition from each other is a 5 to 10 foot stretch of road. Each group is so physically close to the other, yet so far in a symbolic respect. The physical divide shows that there is no such thing as unity between Caucasian and African-American people. Ultimately, there are two nations under the same roof, marginally separated because of the color of their skin. To this day, one can compare this photograph to scenes of our country in its present. When one compares the civil rights movement during the mid 1900s to, for example, “Black Lives Matter” protests, the similarities are abundant. In the end, this strikes a question: how far have we really come in regards to race relations? 

After considering the context of the photograph as well as the symbols or messages it intends to give, the reader may derive and even experience the emotions that the image carries. This photo in particular will never fail to ignite emotions within the viewer, no matter the generation or background in which the viewer was born into. This image contains a message powerful enough to reach not only American citizens but people from around the world. The feelings and emotions that are present on the faces and bodies of those photographed, are reflected on the viewer. What is the most intriguing aspect is the specific influence each part of the picture has on the viewer. For example, one person may relate emotionally to only the left side. They may feel a sense of urgency, concern, or power. The viewer may put up a guard as those police officers did, in a feeling of imminent danger. On the other hand, another viewer may relate more to the right side, which presents a group of men who are determined to get their point across. Although fearful and uncertain, they remain firm yet casual in their stance against the oppression that stands just a few feet from them. However, in today’s generation, one may find it easier to relate to both. As law enforcement personnel become increasingly endangered by racial violence, the viewer may feel a sense of sympathy for them. Contrarily, as the oppression of minorities becomes increasingly frequent in modern society, the viewer may also be able to relate to the frustration, fear, and anger that the other side contains. In the end, this picture presents itself in multiple ways, from many points of view, and as a result sparks emotions on the page and within the reader from all sides.

Standing tall in the face of oppression is a common theme when considering racial oppression, especially in the United States. This particular photograph exemplifies exactly that while conjuring emotion from both sides. It is up to the reader to consider all potential perspectives to obtain the entire message of the photograph. The picture both physically and symbolically reveals the divide between races during that time. It is remarkable that the viewer can look at a picture from over fifty years ago and find similarities in our present society. In all, this picture is truly thought and emotion provoking, leaving the reader startled with many things, but above all, divided.

