Ric Francis
Unexpected Faces: Unexpected Faces
Unexpected Faces, Lima, Peru
Afro-Peruvian men (called Camalenque) are highly sought to work as pallbearers - clad in tuxedos and white gloves at the most upscale funerals - under the belief that their skin-color lends an aura of elegance to the job. On May 18, 2010 Peru's Ministry of Culture denounced the practice of the Camalenque as racist and requested - to no avail - that the mortuary business end the service.
Afro-Peruvian men (called Camalenque) are highly sought to work as pallbearers - clad in tuxedos and white gloves at the most upscale funerals - under the belief that their skin-color lends an aura of elegance to the job. On May 18, 2010 Peru's Ministry of Culture denounced the practice of the Camalenque as racist and requested - to no avail - that the mortuary business end the service.
Images © Ric Francis. Portfolio design by Neon Sky.