In the Dominican Republic, sexual education is almost nonexistent, teen pregnancy rates are staggeringly high, and abortion is illegal in all circumstances. But even as they face tremendous adversity, expecting mothers as young as 14 reveal a fierce determination and a collective hope for a better future.
Carmen Rojas, a Dominican immigrant, community leader, and loving mother in Washington Heights, has dedicated over 40-years of her life to advocating for fairer treatment, protesting overcharges, halfway houses, school shutdowns and fighting for the people of Upper Manhattan.
Lizbeth Mateo is an attorney in Los Angeles—one who started a law practice, hired four employees, and took an oath to uphold the U.S. constitution. She also has no legal options to stay in the country. Lizbeth is undocumented.