PRE-ORDER PHOTO BOOK 'I Went on a Holiday to the Country You Fled From'

The photo book "I Went on a Holiday to the Country You Fled From" is a collaborative project between photographer Iris Haverkamp Begemann and Mexican writer and activist Alejandra Ortiz. Initiated by Haverkamp Begemann's realization of her privileged access to Mexico as a white cisgender woman compared to the challenges faced by trans woman Alejandra, the book aims to unveil the complexities and hardships experienced by marginalized individuals in Mexico.

In the summer of 2021, Haverkamp Begemann grappled with the impact of her decision to vacation in Mexico, considering how her visit might inadvertently contribute to a carefree vacation image of the country, despite the struggles faced by Alejandra and others like her. Alejandra's seven-year battle for a residence permit in the Netherlands, with Mexico labeled as "safe" for her, added a poignant layer to the narrative.

The photo book goes beyond the typical portrayal of Mexico as a tourist destination, seeking to deconstruct stereotypes and shed light on the stark realities of those who call it home. Guided by a hand-drawn map, Haverkamp Begemann immersed herself in Alejandra's hometown, capturing memories and experiences. Alejandra complemented the photographs with profound thoughts and reflections upon Haverkamp Begemann's return to the Netherlands.

"I Went on a Holiday to the Country You Fled From" challenges prevailing perspectives of "me" and "the Other," aiming to foster a collective consciousness by presenting the story from a "we" perspective. It portrays the intertwined lives of the photographer and the activist, offering an intimate portrayal of identity, belonging, and the impact of privilege on personal freedom. The book serves as a powerful testament to the multifaceted lives of those who call Mexico home, urging viewers to reconsider preconceived notions and embrace a more inclusive narrative.