FAFG #002 - Tiny Clothes

When I first started working with the Forensic Anthropology Foundation in Guatemala (FAFG) my family was a bit apprehensive. They were concerned that working day after day with the remains of massacre victims might be upsetting or even depressing for me. "I guess that you'll need to do what doctors often do," commented my mom, "and somehow distance yourself from the personal details of the cases that you're working on."

That sounded like good advice to me, and the proper way to avoid burning out too soon. After all, holding a human skull in your hands can be unsettling enough. But when that skull belongs to an innocent victim of a horrific war crime, the emotion can be devastating.

I was surprised to discover, then, how much of an effort my coworkers make in trying to keep the personal details in the forefront of their minds. The emphasis, of course, is on always on the science: using the latest forensic theories and practices to determine the identity and cause of death of the victims. The investigative process is painstakingly thorough, rigorously methodical, and remarkably well-documented. And yet, these forensic experts never forget that the bones that they so carefully hold in their hands once belonged to living men, women and children.

Remembering the human side of the story can leave us vulnerable to anger, outrage, grief and heartbreak. But it can also inspire us and remind us why this work is so important. After all... we are here to serve the victims, to serve the surviving family members, to serve the communities, and to serve the truth.

Today's photo is of the clothing worn by one of the young victims of the armed conflict. The tiny clothes belong to a male child, approximately one and a half years old.

Tags: Guatemala, FAFG, Forensic, Anthropology, Photography, massacre, victims