Mexican workers leaving for melon fields, Imperial Valley, California  c. 1935 - 1949

Dorothea Lange captured this image of “Mexican workers leaving for melon fields, Imperial Valley, California” as part of her work documenting the Great Depression. Lange's photographs bring into focus the often-unseen lives of migrant workers during this era. The men’s weathered clothing and determined gazes speak to their resilience and dignity, while their traditional sombreros contrast sharply with the context of exploited labor in American agribusiness. Lange, who was hired by government agencies, aimed to raise awareness about the harsh realities faced by these communities, many displaced by economic hardship and racial discrimination. She developed a deep empathy for her subjects, stating: "The camera is an instrument that teaches people how to see without a camera." The photograph serves as a reminder of the human cost of economic policies and the complexities of identity, labor, and migration, compelling us to reflect on the ongoing struggles for social justice and equity.