EVER ONWARD is an intimate photographic exploration of Binghamton, New York—a city that once thrived under the auspices of corporate giants. This series delves into the echoes of a prosperous past, and juxtaposes it against the contemporary landscape of economic uncertainty and community transformation.
Binghamton, the birthplace of IBM and called to defense during the Cold War, was once a thriving manufacturing hub but has long since experienced significant decline. In its industrial prime, IBM ran several of its largest factories here, employing generations of workers who dedicated themselves with a fervor resembling national allegiance. These employees, known as "IBMers," expressed their corporate pride by singing corporate anthems, including "Ever Onward."
Now a local resident, I've heard countless stories of a bygone era—childhood memories of a crowded mall, a busy downtown core with a thriving department store—something unseen in my time here.
Yet, Binghamton once again faces transformation through "revitalization." Over the past decade, the city's core has shown signs of growth, a process that disrupts surrounding neighborhoods and their residents.
My practice is grounded in the belief that social responsibility begins with fostering genuine connections within the communities I document. Through time spent meeting residents, and earning their trust, I capture spontaneous, raw moments revealing the human impact of urban renewal. The ongoing photo essay seeks to illuminate the cost of these changes, documenting lives and communities, already under strain, that now face ongoing displacement and instability."
The series serves not only as a visual record of Binghamton's evolution but also as a testament to the enduring spirit of its people, reflecting the socioeconomic challenges faced by post-industrial towns across America.