Races, Immigration: United States. New York. New York City. Immigrant Station: Regulation of Immigration at the Port of Entry. United States Immigrant Station, New York City: Group of Russian Girls c. 1900

Curator: This photograph by J. H. Adams, titled "Group of Russian Girls," captures a poignant scene at the New York City immigrant station. Editor: My first impression is one of austerity, the sepia tones lending a gravity to the figures before the brick wall. Curator: Absolutely, and considering its historical context, we can understand this image as a study of the intersectional challenges faced by women, particularly immigrants, navigating new spaces. The photograph speaks to the politics of immigration. Editor: Notice the textures: the rough brick, the worn fabrics of their clothing. These are not just aesthetic choices, but clues to their lives. What were the looms these fabrics came from? How were they transported? Curator: Yes, and understanding their cultural context reveals the significance of their garments. Editor: Considering the physical hardships of travel, the materiality really speaks to their resilience. Curator: Indeed, this image and the stories of immigrant women remain relevant in today's globalized and often exclusionary world. Editor: Right. Looking closely, the making of this photo connects us to the labor and sacrifice embedded in this one moment.