Ecosystems of Compassion with Becky Field, Photographer

I am a photographer and advocate for immigrant communities. My photography illustrates that, while we may have very different backgrounds, we all have the same dreams for a safe home, good jobs, quality education, and freedom to practice our faith. Many people know about my ongoing project, Different Roots, Common Dreams: New Hampshire’s Cultural Diversity, and the books and exhibits from this project. The photographs bring compassionate attention to our new American neighbors, and honors the families who have found a new home in the Granite State.

However, few people know about my former life. For 25 years before picking up my camera, I was a federal wildlife ecologist and a university professor. Studies of ecosystems and photography of diversity might seem worlds apart. Had I made an irrational leap from trekking the Arctic tundra to documenting a weeklong Hindu celebration? Recently I have been thinking of the parallels between natural ecosystems and cultural diversity.

In this conversation with NH Peace Action director, Will Hopkins, we’ll explore the threads that connect our understanding of natural ecosystems and multicultural communities, with special focus on how interconnections can lead to greater compassion.