The drugs violence in Mexico has many dynamics, including those related to its geopolitical position alongside its neighbour the United States. However, at its base is a large, young, male population, who are struggling with domestic problems, economic difficulties, and high levels of social inequality. They are growing up in a rigid patriarchal society, where gang membership has become the norm, and where displays of masculinity often lead to violence.
These photos are an introduction to this life. Over the first 6 months of 2012, individuals from two street gangs, “Los Pokos Lokos” and “Los Quimicos”, slowly introduced me to their lives, allowed me to photograph their world, and shared their experiences of growing up in the working class neighbourhoods of Monterrey, Mexico.
Radio Genesis 98.1 FM, Monterrey, Mexico