The most satisfying feedback I get for my work will always be when people say they can see the dignity of the people whose stories I get to share. There are too many examples of stories where people’s traumas and tragedies are sensationalized. Walking the line of letting people know the reality of somebody’s hardships while still fighting with them to assert their human dignity is often a challenge, but one I make a high priority.
It’s also not just me doing this. In order to make sure people are aware of how their story will be used, comfortable opening up, and eager to share it, it takes a lot of help. From my teammates who do the logistical arranging, providing advance notice so people can dress their best, to the translators who work to get ideas across in tact. Fixers who help navigate the gray areas. Photo and video teams who understand sometimes you have to sacrifice efficiency to really connect with people.
A whole bunch of people share in the work of storytelling with dignity. And I’m glad it matters to every one of them.