The 20 Men Project photo series by Exton-based photographer Sandrien de Bruijn-Mesman aims to demolish stereotypes in Chester County, writes Gina Lizzo for Main Line Today.

The series of photos shows Chester County’s Black men in everyday settings, such as working in an office, spending time with family, or engaging in a hobby.

The initiative was envisioned by a group of local residents worried about how images of Black men who are criminals shape the racial narrative.

“One idea that surfaced was how we could humanize Black males in the community by documenting positive imagery,” said Christine Martey-Ochola, a co-chair of RACE Group PA.

Finding subjects for the photographs proved to be surprisingly difficult.

“Black men have felt demonized for a long time, so it was very hard for them to feel that nothing negative would come out of this,” said de Bruijn-Mesman.

But after finding her first subject, it became easier. She has photographed 35 men for the series so far.

The exhibit started at West Chester’s Melton Center before moving to Chester County Library and Chester County Hospital, as well as local schools. And thanks to state Sen. Carolyn Comitta, it also graced the rotunda at the Pennsylvania State Capitol Complex.

Read more about the 20 Men Project that’s working to demolish stereotypes in Main Line Today.